Best 10 Days China Dongbei Tour for Winter Adventure

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Shenyang Arrival (L)

   Upon your arrival at Shenyang airport/train station, the local English-speaking tour guide will pick you up from the exit gate, holding a welcome board with your name.

   Your exploration begins with a visit to the Shenyang Imperial Palace. Located in the central area of Shenyang city, it was the royal palace of the initial Qing Dynasty and had served two great Emperors: Nurhaci and Huang Taiji. Covering an area of 63,272 square meters, Shenyang Imperial Palace, together with the Forbidden City in Beijing, was the greatest and best-preserved imperial palace in China. Visiting this huge palace, you will learn more history of the Qing Dynasty.

   Later, continue to Qing Dynasty Street. The former name was Xinzheng Street, built in the 31^st year of Guangxu, Qing Dynasty, was a prosperous street which full of restaurants, inns, bistros, and tea houses in ancient times. Strolling down the street, you will not only see many local snacks and stores, but also be attracted by the special Qing Dynasty buildings.

   

   After lunch, move on to visit Commander Zhang's Mansion, also called the former residence of Zhang Xueliang, a great general during the Chinese Civil War Period. Covering an area of 36, 000 square meters, this mansion is famous for its diversified architectural styles, including Chinese traditional style, Western-style, Roman style, European style, as well as Japanese style. Today, follow your guide to visit this huge architectural complex by visiting its main buildings: Daqing Building, Xiaoqing Building, The Red Buildings, and Lady Zhao Si's Building.

   You will spend a longer time in Lady Zhao Si's Building, which was once the former residence of General Zhang Xueliang's lover, Zhao Yidi. This building was specially built in Japanese style, and looked like an isolated castle inside the entire mansion. Visiting it, you will better understand the romantic love story between General Zhang and Lady Zhao.

   Last, come to the Zhongjie Pedestrian Street. Regarded as the earliest commercial and pedestrian street in Shenyang, this 1,500-meter street has over 350 years' history. The lively night market, prosperous gold and silver market, stone market, and grain market will definitely be worth your visit.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Shenyang

2. Day 2: Shenyang to Dalian by High-speed Train (B, L)

   In the morning, the driver will pick you up from the hotel lobby and drop you off at Shenyang train station for you to catch a morning high-speed train to Dalian. The train ride takes around 2 hours, and you can enjoy the scenery on the way.

   When you arrive at Dalian North train station, there will be a local English-speaking tour guide picking you up from the exit gate. You will officially start the visit with Binhai Road, the over 30 kilometers coastal highway along the East and South of Dalian City. Taking a shuttle bus along the road, you will see the green mountains, blue seas, a peaceful path combined with bridges and beaches... That must refresh you from the bustling city life.

   

   Later, continue to Dalian North Bridge. This 230-meter bridge was built to enhance the good friendship between Dalian and Kitakyushu ( a Japanese port city ), so that it was regarded as a symbol of friendly relations between China and Japan.

   After that, move on to the Tiger Beach to have a look at the sculpture of tiger groups. Next, transfer to Xinghai Square for further sightseeing. As the symbol building of Dalian city, Xinghai Square covers 1760,000 square meters, and was one of the most important buildings built to commemorate Hong Kong's Return in 1997. There are 4 main scenic areas: Xinghai Square, Fountain Scenic Area, Century City Sculpture Square, and Central Lawn Area. You will follow your guide to explore 2 or 3 areas of them according to your interests.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Dalian

   

3. Day 3: Dalian to Jilin Via Changchun (B, L)

   Today, you will head to Jilin via a visit to Changchun. After hotel breakfast, taking a morning high-speed train which takes around 3.5 hours to Changchuan. Upon your arrival at Changchun train station, the local tour guide and the driver will be waiting for you.

   No doubt, the first site will be the Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo. Located in Jinlin City, this museum was built on the former site of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo and has served China's last Emperor, Puyi, from the year of 1932 to 1945. It was also the head office of puppet Manchukuo, which was controlled by the Japanese Army at that period.

   Now, the museum has become an amazing exhibition hall including cultural relics of Manchukuo, modern Japanese, and Northern China. Walking inside the museum and listening to your guide explain more about Puyi and this palace, you will know more about the special and hard history of China.

   

   Next, transfer you the Eight Branches of Manchukuo, in Chinese is Badabu, which were the eight governing branches in the period of puppet Manchukuo, including the Military Department, the Ministry of justice, the Ministry of economy, the Ministry of transportation, the Ministry of culture and education, Foreign Ministry and Ministry of people's livelihood. Each building has its unique architectural style, and you will find its beauty when you are walking around.

   After all the visits, we head to Jilin. When your van passes by Cultural Square, the largest entertaining square in Changchun city, you can have an exterior look at the entire square. If time permits, you can pull over and stroll down the square to further explore the local culture and history.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Jilin

4. Day 4: Jilin to Changbai Mountain (B, L)

   To catch the amazing time, you are suggested to get up early this morning with a takeaway breakfast. When the van is driving along the road, you can enjoy the beautiful rime corridor along Songhua River. Usually, this magical scenery only appears from 6:00 to 09:00 in the winter morning. If you are lucky enough to witness it, don't forget to take your camera!

   Then, you will head to the exciting Changbai Mountain, today's destination. You will drive 4-5 hours on the road, but you will hardly feel bored since the ice and snow scenery on the way will definitely be worth your attention.

   Before arriving at Erdaobaihe, the small town where you will stay overnight for today, you can pay a visit to the Korean Folk Village, which is a local village themed with Korean local culture, handicrafts, and small gifts.

   Later, transfer to the Erdaobaihe local hotel for an overnight stay. Have a good rest and be prepared for tomorrow's mountain hiking!

   Accommodation: Overnight in Erdaobaihe

   

5. Day 5: North Slope Scenic Area of Changbai Mountain (B, L)

   Changbai Mountain, a dormant volcano located in Antu County of northern China, is famous for its rich natural resources, including forests, wild animals, lakes, rivers, and mineral resources etc. Today, you will visit the North Slope Scenic Area of Changbai Mountain by visiting its main spots.

   Tianchi (Heavenly Lake): Regarded as the most beautiful and exciting spot on Changbai Mountain, it looks like a great blue mirror covering the black ground. Since the weather around the mountain is very changeable, you may not be able to see the true face of the lake if it is foggy. Thus, it is said that if you can witness the real lake on your first visit, you must be very lucky. You can imagine how many people are waiting there to uncover the hidden mystery of this amazing lake every year!

   Changbai Waterfall: In the northern part of Heaven Lake, there is an elegant waterfall flowing between two mountain peaks, which is the famous Changbai Waterfall. Looking from afar, you will find it is just like an amazing Milky Way; if you come closer, the loud sound of running water and cooler temperature will definitely refresh you.

   

   Xiao Tian Chi ( the Smaller Heavenly Lake): Near the Changbai Waterfall, there are 2 smaller lakes which are also worth visiting. Standing by the lake, you must be deeply attracted by the crystal water and find true peace.

   Changbai Hot Springs, also called Julong Hot Springs, located no more than 1 kilometer from Changbai Waterfall, has covered an area of 1,000 square meters, including over 10 springs of different sizes. If you have interests, you can enjoy a relaxing hot spa in this wonderland.

   At the end of the visit, you will head to Dunhua city for the night.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Dunhua

6. Day 6: Dunhua to China Snow Town (B, L)

   Today, you will drive to Snow Town via Jingpo Lake, the largest mountain barrier lake in China. Every year, the lake starts freezing from late November, and the ice layer can even reach up to 70cm. Thus, it becomes the best skating rink, also the perfect place for winter hunting. Many winter activities like ice fishing, fish cooking competition, etc., are held here every winter, you may not want to miss it!

   After lunch, continue driving to China Snow Town, a small village in the southwest mountains of Hailin City. It often gets a lot of snow, especially from December to March, which is the best time to visit when the snow is deep and beautiful.

   Xueyun Street is the busiest area in Snow Town. This street is about 500 meters long and filled with shops and red lanterns hanging along the way. One fun activity is tossing hot water into the air - watch as it quickly freezes into ice because of the cold! At night, the town looks like a fairytale scene, with the white snow glowing softly under the lights.

   Accommodation: Guesthouse in Snow Town

   Special note: During the busy winter season, accommodation in Snow Town is quite limited. Most places to stay are local guesthouses, and rooms are usually shared by at least two people. If you prefer a higher-standard hotel instead of a guesthouse, please let us know as early as possible. Good hotels in Snow Town are in high demand and often get fully booked several months in advance.

   

7. Day 7: Drive to Yabuli Ski Resort from Snow Town (B, L)

   This morning, you are free to enjoy the leisure time in Snow Town. You can use your camera to record this amazing place! Some special photogenic sites in this town need to be paid for in cash and which were NOT included in the current tour package. Thus, if you would like to be there, feel free to ask your tour guide for assistance.

   Later, drive around 2.5 hours to the exciting Yabuli Ski Resort. When you arrive at the resort, your guide will take you to a local restaurant to enjoy a meal first. After that, it's time to start skiing! Your guide will help you get the entrance tickets and rent the basic ski equipment you need. Then, you're free to enjoy skiing on your own.

   Friendly Tip: This tour package includes skiing only in the beginner area, with 3 hours of ski time. Basic equipment such as ski boots, a snowboard, and ski poles is also provided. If you wish to ski for a longer time, you can extend it by paying in cash at your own expense.

   

   The resort has a long snow season, with about 170 days of snow coverage and 120 days suitable for skiing each year. Snow depth ranges from 30 to 50 cm at the base of the mountain and can reach up to 1 meter higher up. These great snow conditions make it an ideal spot for both ski races and ski-touring.

   There are 50 ski runs available, catering to all levels - beginner, intermediate, and advanced - along with several cableways. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a skilled skier, you’ll find a trail that fits your level. The resort also offers fun winter activities like snowmobiling, snow tubing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. It’s a true paradise for snow lovers.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Yabuli

8. Day 8: Yabuli to Volga Manor (B, L)

   After breakfast, drive for around 2 hours to Volga Manor. Located on the outskirts of Harbin, this place feels like a fairytale with strong Russian vibes. It features over 40 Russian-style buildings, including old red castles and cute cabins with blue roofs.

   Kids can enjoy fun activities here, like snow tubing and ice skating. The manor also offers cultural experiences, restaurants, and places to stay, making it a great spot for families and friends to enjoy together.

   There is also a traditional Russian music and dance performance (note: no show on Mondays).

   After all the activities, you will check into the hotel, which is inside the Volga Manor. If you are not exhausted, you can wander around the manor in the evening on your own to enjoy the special night view.

   Accommodation: Overnight in the Volga Manor

   

9. Day 9: Volga Manor to Harbin City (B, L)

   In the morning, drive around 1.5 hours to the Ice City, Harbin. Your first stop will be the Northeast Tiger Park, a breeding and research center for Northeast (Siberian) tigers. Nearly 1,000 tigers live here, and more than 100 Siberian tigers and 20 lions are on display for visitors. You'll get the chance to see tigers at various ages and learn about how these big cats live in China today.

   Next, head to Sun Island, located in the Songhua River in Harbin. The island sits between the old and new parts of the city and is divided into three areas: east, central, and west. Thanks to the fast-growing tourism, Sun Island has become a popular destination with a mix of snow and ice culture, local traditions, and natural scenery. In winter, you can see the amazing Snow Sculpture Expo held on the island. It is also a well-known summer getaway.

   

   Friendly tip: You also have the option to take a cable car over the Songhua River to reach Sun Island Park. This is a great way to enjoy the scenic views of the river from above. If you're interested, tickets can be purchased on the spot for around CNY 100 each way, and payment must be made on site.

   After that, enjoy the relaxing sightseeing on the famous Central Street, a bustling pedestrian street in Harbin city. As you walk down the street, you'll see lots of old buildings built in different Western styles from the early 20th century. Saint Sophia Church is the landmark. Also, notice the busy street life - vendors selling goods, restaurants, pubs, and tasty snacks that will catch your attention.

   In the evening, immerse yourself in the amazing ‌Ice and Snow World Festival‌ - a top winter attraction in Harbin. You'll see all kinds of ice carvings, fun snow activities, and entertaining shows. Walk around and admire the beautiful ice art glowing under bright lights.

   Note: The festival gets very busy on weekends and holidays, so be prepared for long lines.

   Accommodation: Overnight in Harbin

   

10. Day 10: Harbin Departure (B)

    Enjoy your free time after breakfast. When it's time for your departure, our driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you to Harbin Airport or the train station. Wish you a safe and pleasant journey! So much thanks to you for choosing our 10-day China Dongbei tour in winter.

    Accommodation: N/A