World's largest ice-and-snow park concludes with record-breaking tourist visits
During this year's eight-day Spring Festival holiday, Harbin saw a 20.4 percent increase in tourist visits, totaling a historical high of 12.15 million. Tourism revenue also increased 16.6 percent, reaching a record 19.15 billion yuan (about $2.67 billion), according to the city's bureau of culture, radio, television and tourism.
Fueled by China's revised visa-free policy and the surging "China Travel" trend, the park has also drawn more international attention. During this winter season, overseas ticket bookings doubled compared to the previous edition, with visitors from Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, and Indonesia leading the influx, according to Chinese online travel service giant Trip.com Group.
"This is the first time I have witnessed such vast and intricate ice and snow landscapes. China's winter tourism offers endless surprises, and Harbin Ice-Snow World is a must-see destination," said South African tourist Jade Breero, who described his experience in Harbin as unforgettable.
