Saint Sophia Cathedral:Harbin’s most iconic visual landmark! Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds and tour groups. Sunlight filters through the onion dome’s glass windows, illuminating the exquisite murals and chandeliers inside—photos look like they were taken in Europe. In the afternoon, sit on the square benches, listen to street artists play the piano, and watch pigeons circling the dome—it’s incredibly soothing. At 7 PM, the cathedral lights up, with warm yellow glow wrapping around the white dome, creating an ultra-romantic atmosphere.
Central Street:Truly worthy of the title "Asia’s Top Street"! Start your walk from the Flood Control Monument. The cobblestone pavement underfoot exudes a strong sense of history, creaking gently as you walk. The Russian-style buildings along the way, such as Madier Hotel and the Flood Control Monument, look like overseas scenes in every photo. Must-try treats: Madier Ice Cream Bar (the classic original flavor is rich in milk aroma—even delicious in autumn!); Russian Borscht and Braised Lamb in Pot at Huamei Western Restaurant, both authentic in taste.
Songhua River: Harbin’s "Mother River"! From September to October, the river hasn’t frozen yet. Take a walk along the riverbank in the evening, feel the cool breeze, and watch the sunset dye the river golden—it’s breathtakingly beautiful. You can take a cruise from the riverbank to Sun Island, enjoying the scenery on both sides leisurely. If you love hiking, walk along the riverside trail to see locals fishing and flying kites, which is full of daily life charm. Remember to bring a light jacket—the river breeze makes the evening a bit cool.
Sun Island Scenic Area:Harbin’s "Urban Oasis"! Take a ferry from Central Street to Sun Island. First, visit Sun Island Park—from September to October, the park is stunning, with maple leaves starting to turn red and ginkgo leaves turning golden yellow, complementing the lawns and lakes like an oil painting. Recommended spot: Benxiong Amusement Park—ride the Ferris wheel for a panoramic view of Sun Island, which is extremely therapeutic from above. In the evening, go near the Sun Stone to watch the sunset over the river—photos taken here are highly atmospheric.
Volga Manor: A niche hidden gem that feels like "being in Russia"! Take a tourist shuttle from the urban area to the manor. You’ll be amazed by the Russian-style buildings as soon as you enter—Saint Nicholas Church, Equestrian Club, Vodka Castle—it’s like traveling back to Russia. From September to October, the manor is quiet, with green lawns matching the Russian architecture, making it perfect for photos. Recommended experience: Take a horse-drawn carriage to wander around the manor slowly and listen to the coachman tell stories about the manor—it’s very ceremonial. In the evening, watch the sunset by the manor’s lake, where the golden light colors the buildings—breathtakingly beautiful.
Food Recommendations
Harbin Red Sausage: With a 100-year history, it has a rich smoky aroma and firm texture. It’s Harbin’s most representative specialty and ideal souvenir.
Russian-style Rye Bread (Dalieba): A giant Russian-style bread larger than a washbasin, with a hard crust and soft interior, featuring a slight sour wheat flavor.
Madier Ice Cream Bar:A "must-have" on Central Street. With a 100-year history, it’s popular even at -20℃.
Guobaorou (Crispy Sweet and Sour Pork Slices):Harbin’s "food business card"—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated with sweet and sour sauce.
Kvass: A carbonated drink fermented from bread. Chilled and sweet-sour, it’s an excellent appetizer to cut through greasiness.
About Hotel
The Skill Exchange Base for Model Workers of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (Harbin)
The Skill Exchange Base for Model Workers of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (Harbin) ,formerly named Heilongjiang Sun Island Garden Hotel, which is a directly affiliated enterprise invested and constructed by the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU). It serves as a base for skill exchange, learning and training, as well as recuperation and convalescence for national model workers and the majority of staff and workers. It is also a comprehensive hotel integrating conference services, guest rooms, catering and entertainment facilities.
The hotel is located at No. 869 Binghua Road, Songbei District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province ,China, adjacent to the world-famous Ice-Snow World and the national 5A-level scenic spot Sun Island Park. Boasting a superior geographical location, the hotel campus is far from the hustle and bustle, offering a tranquil and serene environment with four-season changing landscapes. It provides a beautiful and comfortable setting for your business trips, vacations and leisure activities.
The staff of Sun Island Garden Hotel has always adhered to the business philosophy of "Serving the trade union cause, serving model workers, welcoming guests from all over the world, and creating a warm home", and is committed to providing meticulous, thoughtful and warm services to every guest who arrives.