Harbin is a city in north-east China, the capital of the Heilongjiang province. Known for famous Ice and Snow Festival and its historic architecture, this frigid city in the northern-most prefecture is a sight to behold.
The city is the eighth most populous in China, with 5.8 million residents in the city proper, and 10 million in the wider metro area. It is home to several major universities and is particularly notable for its technology and scientific universities.
Harbin also has a rich architectural history. In the early 20th century Harbin was a small town which grew quickly as Russia built the city as a showcase of Russian imperialism. Harbin has historically been ethnically diverse, which brought different architectural styles over time.
The Harbin Grand Theatre opened in 2015. Designed by MAD Studio led by Ma Yansong. Ma wanted a modern building with a soothing aesthetic that integrated into the natural surroundings of the Songhua River and the wetlands of the area.
The Saint Sophia Cathedral was built by Russia in 1907 after completion of the Trans-Siberian Railway. The Heilongjiang province borders Russia and was used by Russia in the Russo-Japanese war.
Zhongyang Street (aka Central Street) is a cobbled pedestrian street. It was built by Russia in the late 19th century and has a variety of old world architectural styles. It is the longest pedestrian street in Asia.