Laodaowai

Laodaowai is Harbin's historic old district, dotted with Baroque-style buildings built in the early 20th century.
After comprehensive maintenance and renovation, Laodaowai is known as the Chinese Baroque Historical and Cultural Protection District.
Dozens of old alleys are full of romanticism and mixed with many Chinese elements.
In addition, there are many time-honored shops in this area, such as Zhang Bao Pu, Zhang Fei Ba Meat and other Harbin delicacies.

Attractions Location: No. 64, Nantoudao Street, Daowai District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province

Tickets: free

Opening hours:
All day (Monday to Sunday, January 1st to December 31st)

Contact Details: 4008528881

Transportation:
Take bus No. 1/3/19/26/107 to Jingyang Street Bus Stop and walk about 290 meters to arrive

Time reference: 1-3 hours


Recommended itinerary for Laodaowai tours

1-Day Itinerary: Explore Laodaowai District

This itinerary centers on Laodaowai, a historic and culturally rich district in Harbin, known for its traditional architecture, local markets, and authentic food.

  • Morning: Arrive at Laodaowai by taxi or bus from Harbin city center (approx. 20 minutes). Explore the old streets and traditional residential areas on foot.
  • Midday: Visit local markets such as Laodaowai Food Market to try street snacks like Harbin sausage, steamed buns, and local pastries.
  • Afternoon: Explore nearby Sun Island Scenic Area (bus 22 or taxi, about 30 minutes) for riverside views and gardens.
  • Evening: Return to Laodaowai for dinner at a traditional Dongbei (Northeast China) cuisine restaurant.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Laodaowai guesthouses or nearby hotels; enjoy local specialties such as smoked meats, dumplings, and sour pickles.

Souvenirs: Traditional handicrafts, local preserved foods, handmade textiles, and Harbin sausage.


2-Day Itinerary: Laodaowai and Harbin Urban Highlights

This itinerary combines Laodaowai’s cultural charm with Harbin’s key urban attractions.

  • Day 1: Explore Laodaowai district as per 1-day itinerary.
  • Day 2 Morning: Take bus 22 or taxi to Sun Island Scenic Area for a morning walk and garden exploration.
  • Day 2 Afternoon: Visit Harbin Polarland near Sun Island (taxi or shuttle bus, 10 minutes).
  • Evening: Head to Central Street (Zhongyang Dajie) by taxi (20 minutes) for dinner and shopping.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Laodaowai or Central Street; try Russian-influenced dishes and local hotpot.

Souvenirs: Sun Island offers nature-themed crafts; Central Street has Russian dolls, ice cream souvenirs, and local snacks.


3-Day Itinerary: Laodaowai, Sun Island, and Harbin Cultural Tour

Expand your visit to include Harbin’s cultural sites along with Laodaowai and natural beauty.

  • Days 1-2: Follow 2-day itinerary.
  • Day 3 Morning: Visit Saint Sophia Cathedral by taxi or metro (20 minutes from Laodaowai).
  • Day 3 Afternoon: Explore Harbin Flood Control Memorial Tower and Stalin Park nearby (walking or short taxi rides).
  • Evening: Dinner at Central Street or Laodaowai.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Laodaowai or Central Street; sample local Russian pastries and Dongbei specialties.

Souvenirs: Cathedral gift shops offer religious art and postcards; Flood Control Tower area has photo books and local crafts.


4-Day Itinerary: Nature, Culture, and Historic Districts

This itinerary adds historical district exploration and more nature experiences around Laodaowai.

  • Days 1-3: Follow 3-day itinerary.
  • Day 4 Morning: Visit Harbin Jewish New Synagogue Memorial (taxi, 15 minutes from Laodaowai).
  • Day 4 Afternoon: Relax at Sun Island Snow Sculpture Art Expo (winter) or gardens in other seasons.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Laodaowai or Sun Island area; enjoy local seafood and dumplings.

Souvenirs: Jewish Museum offers cultural books and crafts; Sun Island sells snow art souvenirs and winter hats.


5-Day Itinerary: Extended Harbin and Laodaowai Experience

This itinerary includes a broader exploration of Harbin’s museums and parks, alongside Laodaowai’s charm.

  • Days 1-4: Follow 4-day itinerary.
  • Day 5: Visit Heilongjiang Provincial Museum by taxi or metro Line 1 (20 mins), then head to Harbin Science and Technology Museum.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Laodaowai or city center; try local specialties like Russian bread and Northeastern stews.

Souvenirs: Museum shops sell educational books and replicas; science museum offers toys and kits.


6-Day Itinerary: Comprehensive Harbin Tour Including Laodaowai

This itinerary combines urban exploration, nature, and historical sites, with Laodaowai as the base.

  • Days 1-5: Follow 5-day itinerary.
  • Day 6: Visit Harbin Grand Theatre (taxi or metro Line 2, 30 mins), and nearby Heilongjiang Art Museum.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Laodaowai or Songbei District; sample modern fusion and international cuisines.

Souvenirs: Theatre and art museum gift shops offer prints, programs, and art pieces.


7-Day Itinerary: Full Harbin Cultural, Nature, and Historical Exploration

Enjoy a week-long trip covering Laodaowai, Harbin’s cultural highlights, natural parks, and historical districts.

  • Days 1-6: Follow 6-day itinerary.
  • Day 7: Relax with a morning walk in Laodaowai’s traditional neighborhoods, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy a farewell meal at a local restaurant.

Accommodation/Food: Final night in Laodaowai or Central Street area; enjoy dumplings, smoked meats, and Russian-influenced desserts.

Souvenirs: Handicrafts, local preserved foods, Russian nesting dolls, and traditional textiles.


User Reviews

By Dreaming of entering the Imperial Academy |

Harbin is known as the "Moscow of the East". The Tsarist Russians, who first built the Middle East Railway, planned Harbin based on the model of Moscow.

Old Daowai is the birthplace of Harbin. Harbin was built due to the construction of the Eastern Qing Railway. The small fishing villages, docks and villages on the south bank of the Songhua River were divided into several urban areas such as Daoli (railway, the inside of the railway), Daowai (railway, the outside of the railway), and Nangang by the railway tracks.

The railway tracks are difficult to cross, and they act like a wall that hinders communication between regions. Although Harbin is a mixed city of Chinese and foreigners, the situations of Chinese and foreigners are very different. Daoli and Nangang are inhabited by foreigners, and Western restaurants are everywhere; Daowai is inhabited by Chinese, and Chinese restaurants are everywhere. Therefore, the food in Harbin today is also a mix of Chinese and Western food, with the most authentic Chinese food and the most authentic Western food.

By V |

Laodaowai is one of the cultural birthplaces of Harbin and a famous historical old street. I recommend that you visit it at noon. When you are tired of shopping, find a restaurant and have a good meal.

Nowadays, many buildings in Laodaowai have become dilapidated. After being exposed to wind and rain, the original colors of the houses can no longer be distinguished. Many old houses in the alleys have been or are being demolished. Some of the renovated and protected buildings have become the current Chinese Baroque Street.

In Laodaowai, never underestimate any building next to you, even if it has long been dilapidated and inconspicuous. Every century-old building here tells of its former glory and the history of Harbin.

When Laodaowai was first built, it followed the design concept of a shop in front and a factory in the back, and this concept was retained during the renovation. It is as if you walk through the porch and hear a storyteller telling the story of Silang visiting his mother in the middle of the courtyard, while the waiters greet the guests to sit upstairs... If you believe that all things have spirits, they would have already experienced all kinds of life here.

There is a flea market in Laodaowai on weekends, and I happened to catch it when I went there for the second time. Maybe because I am nostalgic, I am very interested in these old things, but to be honest, I really don’t have the ability to appreciate them, so I just watch the excitement...

But there are indeed many interesting things that our parents had when they were young, such as children's books, old color TVs, etc. Listening to these old people in Bingcheng talk about interesting things, an hour or so passed unknowingly...

By Jessie Arrives |

Address: Junction of Jingyu Street and Erdao Street, Daowai District

Tickets: None

Transportation: Take bus No. 7, 60, 76, 24, etc. in the city and get off at Jingyu Street



Chinese Baroque architecture has remains in many cities such as Harbin, Wuhan, and Beijing. The largest and most complete Chinese Baroque building complex is currently in Daowai District, Harbin. Baroque architecture is an art style that emerged in Italy in the 17th century. It is characterized by free shapes, strong colors, rich decorations, and delicate carvings. It often uses interlaced curved surfaces and elliptical spaces. "Chinese Baroque" is simply "Baroque" in China, that is, Chinese-style architecture with Baroque style formed in China.

By Pinko sauce |

Attracted by the Chinese Baroque style buildings



Recommended more than once in tourist guides, tour guides, etc.



It has a Western-style exterior and a Chinese-style courtyard inside, which is a unique architectural style in Harbin.



I don't know if it's because I didn't finish the whole process, but I feel so desolate



A section of cobblestone street with bronze statues and street vendors



What impressed me most was that you can DIY ice sculptures for free outside the "Tourist Station"



There are some time-honored restaurants here, but few coffee shops or dessert shops.

By Heart in the sea of stars |

Daowai was the old residential area for Harbin people in the past. There are many century-old buildings and time-honored brands here. After the reform and opening up, it was renovated again. Now there are two pedestrian streets, Erdao Street and Sandao Street, which can be regarded as a scenic spot in Harbin. But when I went there, I felt that it was not very popular. The place is really big.

By Otaru. |

Before I set out, I thought the pictures of Laodaowai in other people's travel notes were pretty good. But after all, those were photos taken many years ago. Now, the old buildings in Laodaowai with a lot of history have either been rebuilt into Chinese Baroque or have become dangerous buildings and are fenced off and prohibited from entering.

Just walk along Jingyu Street and walk around the area. The government has built walls around most of the dangerous buildings. It is impossible to take pictures or go in. The subway is still being dug on this street, and the whole street is under construction. Seeing such buildings reminds me of the era of Xiao Hong. A passionate female writer and a revolutionary young man fell in love, escaped from the war, and became exiles.

By Ms. Qu |

What is particularly interesting is that when walking in the streets of the Baroque buildings, you can see European classical architecture on both sides, but once you walk into an archway, you will find a traditional courtyard-style residence, with pavilions or Chinese patterns. The Western "surface" and the Chinese "core" have formed the "Chinese Baroque" style.

The candied haws at minus 30 degrees are like pieces of flavored ice cubes.

If you don't go to the Ice and Snow World, it's also nice to see all kinds of ice sculptures in Baroque~

By Mr. Fu is a coffee cat |

The houses here are really old houses. They have been fenced off and no one has moved in. And it seems that many of them have signs of being burned.

I walked through all the open old blocks. Some of the first floors were not covered by fences, and I could still see the original doorways. It was a time I could never go back to. There is also an old cinema in this area.

The bricks on the steps will not refuse to be eroded, and the window grilles cannot imprison the setting sun. The past cannot be returned to, and the past cannot be retained. So when you face the floating wasteland and the remaining rubble, you are destined to learn to be unrestrained.

By Leo |

The birthplace of Harbin, a hundred years ago, this was one of the most prosperous places in Harbin. Although some buildings or courtyards are now in ruins and facing restoration or demolition, you can still feel the hustle and bustle of the past through these old buildings... In the brochure of the Chinese Baroque Street District, there is such an introduction: To understand Harbin, please start with understanding Laodaowai.

By GAGA |

The streets of Laodaowai are lined with traces of the former Russia. Opposite the old houses, the newly built "Chinese Baroque" block is full of buildings. The imitation European-style buildings can be photographed in any way that makes for a blockbuster.

By Jane |

Laodaowai, a historic district in Harbin, is dotted with Baroque-style buildings dating back to the early 20th century. Following extensive renovation and restoration, Laodaowai has been designated a "Chinese Baroque Historical and Cultural Preservation District." Its dozens of old alleyways exude a rich romanticism, evoking a sense of bustling Republican-era streets. While Laodaowai has undergone extensive renovation and restoration, a few dilapidated buildings still linger on the streets, leaving the area with a strong, old-fashioned atmosphere.

Laodaowai was exceptionally deserted in May, with many shops closed. Walking through the streets, lined with Baroque buildings, I was greeted by a sea of classical architecture on both sides. The streets were sparsely populated, a truly extraordinary experience. I've walked through Beijing Road in Guangzhou, Ciqikou in Chongqing, the narrow and wide alleys of Jinli in Chengdu, the ancient towns of Dali and Lijiang in Yunnan, and the Muslim Quarter in Xi'an...all these classic streets are packed with people, but here, I experienced what it means to have a street just for us. The joy is indescribable, haha...it's just a little chilly...

A tailoring artist on the roadside recruited us. I discussed with my husband and decided to do a double haircut. The overall effect of the haircut was pretty good. The artist cut my husband's hair exactly like him!! (chubby face∩_∩), the artist smiled a little proudly after the haircut, but mine didn't look very similar::



My second visit to Laodaowai was for dinner. The weather was a bit hot and humid, but the wind was strong. We ate outside the restaurant. After a few days of Harbin's often salty food, we specifically asked the owner to use less salt. But when the dishes arrived, it felt like the chef hadn't added any salt at all. It was even more Cantonese than Cantonese food, hahaha... At night, Laodaowai, illuminated by the streetlights, seemed to have a more lively atmosphere. There were a lot more people at dinnertime than on our first visit (but still not many ∩_∩), but after we finished, everyone left and it became deserted again. I've heard from friends that Harbin has no nightlife. Is that really true? Haha...

By Travel expert Meng Nan |

There are many time-honored restaurants. The buildings are unique. It is suitable for taking pictures. It is a kind of sentiment for Harbin people.

By jyun2001 |

It's Chinese Baroque. It's deserted, many buildings are closed, and it feels boring.

By Big Bad Wolf |

This is the old district of Harbin. Many old-style buildings have a sense of history.

By Bill |

Laodaowai is currently undergoing renovations, so many shops are closed and there are very few people. This is a good opportunity for us to take a closer look at the architecture. I had read online that many of the old buildings here are slated for demolition, so I decided to take advantage of them while they are still around and savor the last of their history.

By Lonely old soul |

Compared with the Chinese Baroque with its exquisite decoration and clean pavement, the Laodaowai with its mottled and slightly dilapidated exterior walls is the essence. Only here can you feel the prosperity of Harbin during the Republic of China period.

By Haibao is SpongeBob |

Laodaowai Chinese Baroque, Baroque style area, there are many old buildings here, with a strong historical and cultural heritage, it is quite interesting to take a walk; there are many delicious foods and snacks nearby; Nansandao Street is a folk custom pedestrian street, and Nanerdao Street is a food street

By Pingxianrujing |

Eat local delicacies here, stroll around and see Russian-style buildings. Even though I was freezing, I was still very satisfied.

By Pure big rice ball |

The buildings in Laodaowai are very distinctive, and walking in them gives you a sense of time travel. However, some blocks are fenced off for maintenance. It's a pity. Overall, it's worth a visit, and I feel that one less visit is better, especially the old block. By the way, I ate Zhang Fei's braised pork at the end, which was quite fragrant. The big white pear is also good👍

By I'm not short-legged. |

When talking about Laodaowai, many people will complain. Indeed, there are too many historical deposits here. It has the largest preserved "Chinese Baroque" building block in China, and it is also the birthplace of Harbin. So the essence of this route lies in one word: "old".

By Yang Xiaomi |

Laodaowai, old-style architecture. Big red lanterns are hanging, which looks good.

By Ken Chen |

A large area of Russian-style buildings. Because it was the Spring Festival, many shops were closed.

By Expired strawberries |

There is the Laodaowai Grand Theater and leisurely old people on the roadside. You can also see such local life scenes on the street, where they just put some old items on the roadside for sale.

By Don't lose your way |

Very suitable for shooting humanities documentary materials! This old street is very distinctive. It seems that there are not many people now, but don’t miss it, because you don’t know when it will really disappear and remain only in your memory!

By Soft July |

Traditional Baroque architectural area. I would like to see such architecture, but we came out a little late, it was dark, and I was afraid that some of the carvings could not be explored, but the beauty of the art was there.

By Planet. |

This time I went in a hurry just to try the old restaurant. There were not many people there, and friends who take care of the Baroque-style architecture can come and take pictures.

By Dai Dai |

They are all old houses. They look nice. You can take a walk and have lunch.

By Mr. Nan Xiaobai |

The old buildings are gradually disappearing, vaguely retaining their past appearance

By Secret Rice |

Lao Dingfeng, Zhang Baopu, classic old taste, the building is also a hundred years old, nostalgic

By Tong Ran |

It is said that this was a village where more than a dozen fishermen lived together, and later a medicine shop was opened. These buildings are very old, and can be said to have witnessed many events in the past and present, and are immersed in history.

By Da Guang |

I hope the government will not demolish them all. Keep the original appearance. Many old houses are particularly dilapidated and need to be planned. Some of them are still inhabited and are really dirty and messy.

By Rest, little thief |

Compared with Central Avenue, the street community with Republican-era architecture is more original. A small section has been commercially developed, but most of the community is still an old community that has not been repaired or renovated. It is possible to experience the prosperity of Harbin in its early years.

By Tin |

Laodaowai is in an alley and a little hard to find. The exterior is a bit run-down, but the interior seems to have been recently renovated.

By John_Taylor |

Here, you'll find a fusion of Eastern and Western elements in the "Chinese Baroque" architectural complex, dilapidated buildings that seem out of step with the times, time-honored shops renowned throughout Harbin, the imprint of those who ventured into the Northeast, and the memories of longtime residents. For visitors from other places, the area evokes lingering associations with the film "Fireworks in the Daytime" and a sense of the changing times.

By littleyu |

Harbin is divided into Daoli and Daowai. Daoli is the new city area and Daowai is the old city area. There are many buildings preserved from the past in Slovak style and an antique market. It happened to be Sunday morning when we arrived, and there were many people selling antiques. Maitian Youth Hostel is also in this area. The environment and geographical location are pretty good. The food is mainly classic old-fashioned, such as jar meat and sweet and sour pork. Because it is summer, there are more open-air shops. There is also a more distinctive drink in Harbin, Qiulin kvass, which tastes almost the same as black bread, with hops, bread, and sweetness. Maybe many people are not used to this taste, but I think it's okay. I suggest you try it. I personally think it's more distinctive than Mardel popsicles.

By like |

Laodaowai is a cluster of old buildings in Harbin. Many of the old buildings have now been fenced off, losing their historical charm and leaving behind only a dilapidated scene. Children are not interested in it, but adults feel that it is nice to visit it.

I'd always wanted to drink Dabai Pear in Harbin. They didn't sell it on Central Street or Taiyang Island. That day, as soon as we entered Laodaowai, the shops were all filled with Dabai Pears, and my sister and I'd both been dazzled. It actually tasted like a pear-flavored sparkling drink, and my younger sister threw it to me before she finished it. There were so many great places to eat there, like the much-praised Zhang Bao Pu and the mutton shumai. But we'd already eaten too much breakfast at the hotel, and it was only nine or ten o'clock when we got here, so we couldn't eat anymore, so we gave up.

By King of Amy |

I'm not particularly fond of cultural attractions, and the fact that it was rainy that day really dampened my mood and experience. The main issue was that I'd previously read that much of the buildings in Laodaowai were going to be rebuilt, a project that began years ago and wasn't finished by the time we visited. I give a poor review of their execution and planning. If you have the time to savor a place like this, you can still find some interesting sights. Unfortunately, most tourists, including us, who visit Harbin, just rush through it all and don't have much time.

By Horse Sample |

This is a place of "sentiment" in the hearts of Harbin people and also the root of Harbin.

The most complete Chinese Baroque architectural complex is located in Daowai District, Harbin. I carefully observed these buildings hidden in the corners of the streets. They are contrary to the seriousness and restraint of classicism, and are characterized by flexibility and color.

Daowai Historic District has been transformed into a new one, and the old shops in the old food street have also moved.

Walking through it, you can actually feel like you are in an old alley in Shanghai. The majority of the buildings in Laodaowai are still there, but they are all "old". The outer walls are covered with mottled marks, brackets and wires are everywhere, and a few old signs are still hanging on the doors in pieces, but you can still see the glory and splendor of the past.

By RYAN |

Before I went there, I always imagined that I could still see those old houses with rich historical traces and shoot a historical film there. But I didn't expect that after I got there, it was already surrounded by a layer of "construction blue board". Walking into Laodaowai, it was like traveling back in time. The Chinese Baroque Style Street I just visited was like another world.

Beisandao Street was almost empty. There was one small street which was relatively busy and had some people living on it, but the rest were empty houses waiting to be demolished. In fact, I felt inexplicably depressed in Laodaowai that day. Walking among those deserted, collapsed and dilapidated houses, my chest felt extremely stuffy.

By nana |

Laodaowai is a place you see less and less each time you visit it. When I visited, it was already undergoing extensive demolition. So, I suggest that future visitors avoid this attraction altogether. Most of the area is fenced off, devoid of life, and some of the truly old buildings are now in ruins.

By mlpg1985 |

In the old neighborhood, you can slowly feel the atmosphere of Harbin's old residential life. Walking further, you will reach the Chinese Baroque Scenic Area. Here, there is no ancient atmosphere like the old neighborhood just now, and it is basically newly built.

By Sette |

The ancient Laodaowai is a place where Chinese and Western styles coexist. The century-old restaurants have filled the entire street with the fragrance of their original intentions that have gone through changes - that is the taste of the years.

There are many century-old restaurants in Laodaowai, you must try them

Laodaowai is like a concentrated old Harbin, where the old times blossom and bear fruit, and the old flavors linger here, and you will involuntarily calm down from the glitz and glamour of two streets away. Laodaowai is worth savoring carefully.

By Don't move. |

Laodaowai was once home to Harbin residents, while Zhongyang Street was once the Russian quarters. The Chinese have absorbed foreign styles, and Laodaowai boasts numerous foreign buildings with Chinese elements, a phenomenon known as the "Chinese Baroque." However, this area is now in decline, with many of the old houses demolished. With the new tourist attractions, it feels rather dull. It's worth preserving these buildings while they last, as we don't know how long they'll disappear.

By 🔫biubiubiu~~ |

The old buildings in Laodaowai are indeed becoming less and less. The real old houses, like the old houses on Beisandao Street, have become dangerous buildings. If you want to eat Northeastern specialties, Laodaowai is a good choice!

By The river is roaring |

I tasted authentic Northeastern cuisine at Laodaowai Chinese Baroque Street, played in the ice maze, admired ice sculptures on the street, and felt Harbin's ice and snow culture.

By Congbai |

Unlike the European-built buildings along Central Avenue, most of the buildings in Laodaowai were constructed by Chinese merchants in the early 20th century. Laodaowai's Baroque architecture is rich in romanticism, with delicate carvings and vibrant colors. Observant visitors will also notice that the architecture here also incorporates numerous Chinese elements.



Today, Laodaowai boasts many well-preserved buildings and a wealth of later folk sculptures scattered throughout the streets, transporting you directly to a classic movie. The area also boasts a wealth of time-honored restaurants, such as Zhang Bao Pu and Zhang Fei Ba Rou, offering a chance to savor Harbin cuisine after a leisurely stroll.



The address is No. 197, Jingyang Street, Daowai District, Harbin City. You can take bus No. 1 or No. 28 and get off at Jingyu Toudaojie Station.

By Qieguake |

As the Spring Festival approaches, there are not many people in the food street.

By Mr. Chen |

There is a special block here that attracts me, that is, the "Chinese Baroque" building area with hundreds of buildings. The black and white lens and the unchanged urban buildings seem to have returned to its era. The urban buildings under the black and white filter tell the story of this city, the story of cities.

By Stop and Go |

This is a Baroque-style building and antique market. It is very quiet inside and gives people a feeling of being isolated from the world.

By Little girl loves to fart |

Daowai is a district, and Laodaowai is two streets with interesting characteristics, which is quite good.

By Crown Three |

Laodaowai is a historical old block in Harbin, where Baroque-style buildings built in the early 20th century can be seen everywhere. After comprehensive maintenance and renovation, Laodaowai is known as the Chinese Baroque Historical and Cultural Protection Block. It is located in the central core area of Daowai District, Harbin. Unlike the old buildings built by Europeans in the Central Street area, most of the buildings in Laodaowai were built by Chinese merchants in the early 20th century. The Baroque architectural style of Laodaowai has a strong romantic color, delicate carvings and strong colors. The buildings here are also mixed with many Chinese elements. In the current Laodaowai, not only are many old buildings well preserved, but many folk sculptures placed later can also be seen in every corner of the block, which makes it easy for people to be in the clips of old movies. Although it is the same building, it seems to take you through a century. In addition, there are many time-honored brands in this area, such as Zhang Baopu, Zhang Fei Braised Meat and other restaurants. When you are tired of shopping, you can sit down and taste Harbin cuisine.



Dangerous buildings to be demolished



The renovated Chinese Baroque Street has several streets connected by multiple courtyards. Usually, shops are located on the street, with a Baroque style, and courtyards behind the shops. The houses in the courtyards are mostly decorated in Chinese style for living.

By KE&NAI |

I didn't expect that most of them were demolished when I went there. What a pity~

By Jessie_B |

Many buildings in Laodaowai are about to be demolished, but you can still see some dilapidated houses that still exude irreplaceable Baroque style. The newly built Baroque Street is also quite nice.

By Alva |

Old Daowai is the birthplace of Harbin. A hundred years ago, Harbin had only two districts, the east and the west. The east district was Daoli and Nangang, where foreigners lived, and the west district was Daowai, where Chinese people lived. According to historical records, in the early 20th century, a group of smart, capable, intelligent and courageous national industrial and commercial elites took the lead in opening shops and running industries on Nanerdao Street, and buying land and building houses in the hinterland of Daowai. When building the building, those Chinese craftsmen followed the example of the "Western-style houses" in Daoli and Nangang, using Chinese architectural techniques, with plain brick walls, white lime joints, brick and wood structures, and carved eaves, to build a typical Chinese-style "small Western-style building" - European-style facades and Chinese-style courtyards.

In the face of the new commercial economy, Laodaowai is facing the need to repeat the transformation of the old street district of Qianmen Street in Beijing. Now a Baroque historical and cultural protection district has been established. Everyone should go and see it before it is completely transformed.

By ZQ |

If time permits, you can take a look at Harbin in the past. There are many traditional snacks that are worth visiting.

By Tang Xiaojuan |

There's a subway under construction nearby, and the surrounding streets are rather messy due to the walled-off area. The renovated areas are South Second and South Third Streets. Several streets near North Third Street are undergoing relocation, and I'm not sure if these buildings will be renovated or demolished. These houses look old but charming, with traces of former shops. I think old houses have a lot more character.

By yyyxiaoyu |

Laodaowai is the birthplace of Harbin. In the late 19th century, the construction of the Chinese Eastern Railway and the opening of navigation on the Songhua River attracted a large influx of foreigners and capital, rapidly developing it into a metropolis in the Far East. With the prosperity of domestic industry and commerce and the infiltration of foreign cultures, the area's architectural style was influenced by both Western and traditional Chinese culture, resulting in a unique "Chinese Baroque" style: Western-style buildings from the outside, yet inside, one finds oneself in a Chinese courtyard.

Take a walk on Jingyu Street, you will find it very quiet with few tourists. Every building has a strong sense of history.



Transportation: Take bus No. 1, 28, 95, etc. and get off at Jingyu Toudao Street Station

Tickets: Free

Opening hours: Open all day

By Pig head |

Laodaowai is the root of Harbin. It is undergoing renovation and is not very popular. I regret that I came too late and missed the original scenes of the citizens' lives.

By Tengqian bottom fishing |

If you like nostalgia and the traces of time, this place can definitely give you everything you want.

By Yang Meiliuer |

Laodaowai is Harbin's historic old district, dotted with Baroque-style buildings built in the early 20th century.

After comprehensive maintenance and renovation, Laodaowai is known as the Chinese Baroque Historical and Cultural Protection District.

Dozens of old alleys are full of romanticism and mixed with many Chinese elements.

In addition, there are many time-honored brands in this area, such as Zhang Baopu, Zhang Fei Braised Meat and other Harbin delicacies.

By Come on, daddy |

Laodaowai is now in decline, but Zhang Baopu’s business is still booming!

By Wan Junyan-Awan |

Every time I go to Harbin, I have to come to Laodaowai to take photos and eat. The architecture here is very feel, and there are many other good restaurants besides Zhang Baopu, Zhang Fei Braised Meat and other famous restaurants. The prices are much cheaper than those in Central Street.

By Xiao Degree - Northeast Celsius |

Laodaowai is an old city district in Harbin. Any place you pick may have a history of hundreds of years. The "Chinese Baroque" buildings are well preserved here. It is a good place to get close to the history of Harbin in person.

By Getaway |

After visiting the 731 site in the morning, we visited the Chinese Baroque Laodaowai in the afternoon. Some of the commercial buildings are well-preserved and restored to their original state, while others are in critical condition and are beginning to be repaired with scaffolding. Unfortunately, the residential area is already fenced off and will probably be demolished soon. As we were about to leave Laodaowai, we stumbled upon the Harbin Local Theater. It looked like a very old building and they were still selling tickets. Visitors were not allowed inside, so we had to take a picture from the outside. We ate six steamed buns at the time-honored Zhang Baopu. The cucumber and shrimp filling was delicious. After a quick two-hour tour of Laodaowai, we said goodbye as the sun set.

By CHI |

It is a very meaningful place. Many of the buildings are classical and stylish. Unfortunately, some are being demolished and some are being rebuilt, which makes it a bit messy. I hope it can be well preserved.

By MandyLee |

It's a place for shopping, you don't have to spend any money, it's okay to just go shopping and look at the buildings, you can also eat at Zhang Bao Pu, which is still okay.

You can also go to Lao Ding Feng to buy some food, souvenirs, and gifts.

By Yanggujun |

It's average, but there are many old shops that attract many diners.

By Nana, Nana |

The original Baroque architectural style and clean roads make it a great place for tourists to visit. There are also many time-honored snack bars and antique stalls nearby.

By Huang Yongting |

Laodaowai

It's a very retro place

Walking on the avenue, you can go in and see the gates one by one.

Every door has a different world.

By Growing children |

The old Daowai in winter is even more desolate and vicissitudes, and the Grand View Garden of Baroque architecture

By Blackgirl |

This is a paradise for foodies, with many century-old restaurants serving delicious food.

By Zhang Jian |

Harbin's two oldest administrative districts are Nangang and Daowai. Nangang was once home to a large foreign population, while Daowai was home to a large Chinese population, resulting in distinct architectural styles. Nangang boasts grand buildings, many of which served as foreign government offices, businesses, and event centers. While the main structures are relatively well-preserved, most are marked with historically protected buildings. However, significant redevelopment has damaged the surrounding area, eroding the original, pristine environment. These once magnificent historical buildings have been eclipsed by modern skyscrapers. Daowai boasts a relatively high concentration of old buildings, with some areas retaining much of their original charm, offering a glimpse into the authentic lifestyle of Harbin's past. Unfortunately, these old buildings have fallen into disrepair and inadequate conservation measures, resulting in significant damage and few if any protected building signs. Recently, a Chinese Baroque street, or several streets, have been constructed on Nan Erdao Street. I visited and found the area overly commercial, with renovations wiping out the original character and creating a new, yet somewhat artificial, feel. To see the old Daowai, head to Jingyang Street, Beisandao Street, and Beiliudao Street. Many people say that in a few years, the old Daowai will no longer exist, and along with those old buildings, the Harbin culture and those old memories will vanish. I really don't want to see that day.

By Fatty meat buns |

Laodaowai has gradually become a must-see for any Harbin visitor. There's so much delicious food here, each with its own unique characteristics. If you have the time, you'll be able to try every one of them. Now that the area is slowly expanding, and many of the old buildings are being demolished, it's not as chaotic as you might imagine. On the contrary, there's still a lot of ancient beauty left before the demolition. If you have time to visit Harbin, you must visit here: there's food, drinks, people, and a lively atmosphere.

By Xiao Lu Chengzi |

I know this is a place in Harbin that cannot be ignored. Every corner is full of traces of history.

The breath of life of old Harbin people

Witness the past, present and future of Harbin...

By I am a cloud |

There are old Baroque buildings here. Although they are shabby, they have a sense of age. The entire area of Laodaowai is very large, but the scenic area is only 3 or 4 streets. There are various restaurants, hotels and small shops along the way.