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Zhaolin Park is located on the bank of the Songhua River in Daoli District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province, at the northern end of Zhaolin Street in Daoli District.
Covering an area of 65,000 square meters, it was originally named Daoli Park and was built in 1900. It is the earliest park in Harbin.
In order to commemorate the anti-Japanese hero General Li Zhaolin, people buried his remains here and held a grand public memorial and burial ceremony in the park. In 1946, Daoli Park was renamed Zhaolin Park.
Today, Zhaolin Park has become the venue for the annual Harbin Ice Lantern Festival, which starts on January 5th and lasts until the end of February.
The art of ice lanterns undergoes new changes every year and is known as "a fairy tale that never repeats itself."
Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
3 hours
Tickets for the Ice Lantern Festival are 150 yuan
Morning session 10:00-14:00; evening session 14:00-21:00
Zhaolin Park is a cultural and historical landmark in Harbin, known for its natural beauty and as the site of the Harbin Ice Festival during winter. It was initially established as a public park and has become an important part of Harbin's cultural identity, particularly for its ice sculptures and festive activities.
Zhaolin Park is located in the central area of Harbin. It is easily accessible by taxi, public buses, or on foot from nearby attractions. The nearest metro station is Harbin Railway Station, which is a short taxi or bus ride away.
Zhaolin Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during the off-peak seasons, to avoid the crowds.
The entrance to Zhaolin Park is free during most of the year, but during special events like the Harbin Ice Festival, there may be an entrance fee. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local ticket platforms.
During peak seasons or special events, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the Harbin Ice Festival. Booking a few days in advance will ensure availability and avoid long waiting times.
Visitors typically spend about 1-2 hours exploring Zhaolin Park. This allows time to enjoy the natural beauty, take photos, and visit the ice sculptures (if applicable).
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly available, but visitors can rent a local guide or use smartphone apps for additional information.
It is best to start by exploring the main entrance area, stroll along the lake, and then visit the ice sculptures (in winter). Afterward, wander through the flower gardens and take in the traditional pavilions.
Night visits are available, especially during the Ice Festival when the sculptures are beautifully lit up. Special events and cultural performances may also take place in the evening during peak seasons.
The park can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly during the Ice Festival. The least crowded times are weekdays in the early mornings or late afternoons, particularly during non-peak seasons.
Zhaolin Park offers basic facilities, including public restrooms, benches for resting, and a few food vendors. However, for a wider variety of food options and shopping, visitors may want to head to nearby areas outside the park.
The park is relatively accessible, with smooth pathways for walking. Some areas may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility, especially during the winter months when snow and ice are present. It's advisable for elderly or disabled visitors to come during warmer seasons.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are commonly used, especially for event tickets and food purchases.
Inside the park, food options are limited to a few stalls offering snacks and drinks. For more substantial meals, visitors can explore nearby restaurants in the city center.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the local restaurants nearby. However, halal food options may be more limited, so it’s best to explore the city center for a wider range of choices.
There are small souvenir shops inside the park offering items like postcards, keychains, and miniature ice sculptures. For more variety, visitors can explore the local markets outside the park.
After visiting, taxis and buses are convenient options to reach other nearby attractions. The metro is also a good choice for traveling to Harbin's city center.
