Sleeping:
At 1100 yuan for a double room, the Shangri-La is one of the most expensive hotels in Harbin, but is well located near the river with views out toward the ice lantern exhibition. It's also well-equipped with a pool, massage options, etc., in case you get tired of the cold. But book very early (months ahead of time), as it fills up quickly for the weeks of the Ice and Snow Festival. We stayed at the equally high-priced Sofitel Wanda and found its location inconvenient (in a new economic development zone) and the service poor. A less expensive, but well-situated, option is the Gloria Plaza Hotel.
- Shangri-La, 555 You Yi Road, Harbin 150018, tel (86 451) 8485 8888, fax (86 451) 8462 1777
- Sofitel Wanda, 68 Ganshui Road, Harbin, 150090, tel (86 451) 8233 6888, fax (86 451) 8233 1818.
- Gloria Plaza.
Eating:
Harbin is home to a wonderful mix of Northeast Chinese and Russian culture, which is reflected in the variety of restaurants and foods. A favorite place for a meal or tea is the utterly charming
Russia 1914 located adjacent to the pedestrian walkway at 57 West Toudao St. (tel: 451 8456 3207); be sure to sample the piroshki and the mashed potatoes. Another recommendation for hearty Russian fare is
Katusha Restaurant, located at the edge of the river near Zhaolin Park (tel: 13836148098), but you will need to speak Chinese or Mandarin there. Good local Chinese food abounds around town; especially recommended are the local
chun bing (spring rolls) and
dong bei jiaozi (northeastern dumplings).
