The best way to reach Harbin from London is to catch a direct flight to another major destination in China (Beijing being the best option) before transferring on a flight to Harbin. There are currently no direct flights to Harbin so your flight could take anywhere between 15 and 20 hours, depending on the length of your stopovers. The airlines that make this flight include Air China and China Eastern and flights can be compared online to find a flight that is right for you. Most flights depart from London Heathrow Airport which is easily accessible by train, bus or the London Underground. Upon arrival at Harbin Airport, you can either take a taxi or a bus to the city centre. A taxi should cost around 120 RMB (£13) and will take around 45 minutes to get to the centre, whilst a bus will cost 20 RMB (£2) and will take a little longer.
To travel between London and Harbin at a low cost, Easyvoyage provides two major pieces of information: the calendar and the price history for London - Harbin flights. These elements will allow you to analyse the cheapest London - Harbin flights by departure date.
This section of the city contains many buildings constructed by the Russians and is fascinating for its architecture which is unlike anything you will see in the rest of China.
2 The International Snow and Ice FestivalThe Snow and Ice Festival is Harbin's claim to fame, and takes place in January and February. Sculptors compete to produce the most dazzling sculptures from snow and ice and turn the city into a true winter wonderland.
3 Sun IslandSun Island is a classic Chinese park that alters depending on the season. In wintertime, it is covered in pure white snow, whilst in summer it is a pleasant place to stroll around and enjoy the warm weather, flowers and greenery.
4 Siberian Tiger PreserveThe place to see hundreds of this mighty creature is one of the city's premier attractions. It is fascinating for those looking to observe this rare creature, though definitely not for the squeamish as the tigers are fed live ducks, chickens and even cows.
5 Fantastic FoodThe city is famous for its food which blends together the best of Chinese, Russian and Korean cuisines. Chinese hot pot and BBQ food are especially popular dishes here. Eating meals in China is usually a communal activity, and this means that restaurants are lively places with large groups of people enjoying the food, drink and each other's company.