Harbin ice heats up

The annual Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is all set to wow crowds with the onset of winter arriving early.

Located on Sun Island, on the north bank of the Songhuajiang River, the festival is scheduled to open December 20 and run through until late January. This year, the theme of the 60th Anniversary of New China will showcase prominent Chinese elements.

Covering a vast 450,000 square meters, the snow festival will be divided into seven scenic spots.

With a giant snow cube as its frame, a "World Expo space is expected to steal the show. Beautifully carved snow sculptures, snow screened projections and captivating interactive programs will demonstrate Heilongjiang's theme "Ice and Snow Make Us Different" for the Shanghai World Expo.

During the festival, a wide range of recreational activities will be available and various services provided for visitors, including slide-proof shoe covers, warm restrooms with hot water and additional bus lines at major transport hubs.

Source: China Daily/Agencies