Harbin, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Harbin, China? If you're planning to go to Harbin, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Harbin, China

Based on the climate and weather in Harbin, China, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Harbin, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Harbin, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Harbin, China by month

January

Traveling to Harbin in January, you will notice that it can be dangerously cold. Daytime temperatures are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

Traveling to Harbin in February, you will notice that it can be bitter cold. Daytime temperatures are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

Traveling to Harbin in March, you will notice that it is frigid. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Harbin is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 30% to 40% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the right type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May here is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in this region is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Harbin in July, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Harbin during August, you are likely to notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September for Harbin is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you go to Harbin in October, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you are traveling to Harbin in November, you will notice that it is frosty. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here is biting cold. Temperatures average in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Harbin. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

Synagogues may enforce dress requirements. At Harbin Jewish New Synagogue:

If you visit the Unit 731 Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Harbin, China

Harbin, located in the northeastern Heilongjiang province of China, is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant atmosphere. The city is famous for its frigid winter temperatures that transform it into a winter wonderland, making it one of the most attractive destinations in China. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Harbin.

1. Harbin Ice and Snow World

The Harbin Ice and Snow World is one of the most famous winter tourist attractions in the world. It features over 2,000 ice sculptures and snow artworks, including some of its most recognizable structures, such as ice castles, giant slides, and snow sculptures.

2. Saint Sophia Cathedral

The Saint Sophia Cathedral is a stunning Eastern Orthodox church that dates back to 1907. The church is unique because it does not have any pillars, making it one of the most important historic attractions in the city. It is also famous for its Byzantine-style architecture.

3. The Sun Island Scenic Resort

Located on the banks of the Songhua River, the Sun Island Scenic Resort is a popular summer vacation spot. The park features mountains, forests, and lakes, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and picnicking.

4. Zhaolin Park

Zhaolin Park is a beautiful park that is famous for its stunning ice lanterns during the Harbin Ice Festival. During this time, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with several different ice displays that are lit up with colorful lights.

5. Central Street

The Central Street is a pedestrian street that is filled with great shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Visitors can take a stroll along the historic street and indulge in some of the city's most famous local cuisine, such as roasted lamb skewers and Harbin beer.

6. Harbin Polarland

Polarland is an aquarium that specializes in Arctic marine life. Visitors can see various types of sea mammals, including polar bears, penguins, and arctic wolves. The attraction also takes visitors on a virtual underwater journey to the North Pole.

7. Harbin Songhua River Sightseeing Cableway

The Harbin Songhua River cableway is an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful view of the cityscape from above. The 1,104-meter-long cableway takes visitors across the Songhua River, providing an excellent vantage point to view the city's beautiful skyline.

In conclusion, Harbin is a fascinating city that is rich in history and culture. Its freezing cold temperatures make it a must-visit destination during the winter season, and its beautiful landscapes and unique attractions make it worth visiting throughout the year. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a culture lover, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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