When Qingdao's temperatures reach below zero and the urge for a winter break beckons, what better way to go than further north! A little crazy maybe, but worthwhile when you head for the city of Harbin (or Ha'erbin) during January and February.

Located in Heilongjiang province, bordering Russia, Inner Mongolia, and Jilin, the city of Harbin has a population of 2.5 million, making it the largest provincial capital in China. Although largely an industrial expanse, there is an interesting history and much culture associated with it, along with various ethnic groups.

Harbin makes the most of its freezing climate by hosting the impressive annual Ice Festival. Every January, the city comes alive with tourists from all over China and the world, visiting this magnificent outdoor event. Blocks of snow and ice are sculpted into actual life-size shapes of animals, tall-storied buildings, bridges, & ice slides. With their internal coloured lights, the sculptures provide an amazing viewing spectacle at night. During the day the festival coloured lights, the sculptures provide an amazing viewing spectacle at night. During the day the festival site offers ice-skating, sliding and skiing (although the slope is small), amongst other winter activities. There're enough to keep the whole family occupied but this will depend on how long you can brave the icy temperatures. In Zhaolin Park, you'll find an impressive display of ice lanterns. Join in with visitors & locals alike to smash the lanterns together in a festival finale.

Around the city there are some smaller ice parks with similar sculptures and carvings. These are best to wander through in the evening when they are all lit up. Also, throughout the city streets small ice sculptures and carvings can be found for some extra photo opportunities. The attractive pedestrianised main street features a number of shops with everything from simple stores to top range fashion outlets, shopping malls, internet cafes and bars.

Getting there & away Getting there & away The Harbin Ice & Snow Festival (hā ěr bīn bīng xuě dà shì jiè -哈尔滨冰雪大世界) will run until February 12 this year. It is located approximately 10 minutes from the city centre, on the opposite side of the Songhuajiang River. Entrance fee is approximately RMB 80.

The most convenient transport from Qingdao to Harbin is by air, with several daily flights; expect to pay around RMB 800 each way. Yanjiagang airport is located 40km outside the city. The taxi fare is approximately RMB 100 not including RMB 20 for tolls. Alternatively, the bus should cost around RMB 15.

There are several good choices of hotels to stay and two of the best locations would be the Gloria and the Shangri La. Both are close to the city centre and situated by the banks of the Songhuajiang river.