THIS SP THAT F S
The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival stands as a truly unique cultural and artistic extravaganza Its origins trace back to 1963, but the Festival faced interruptions during China's Cultural Revolution Fortunately, in 1985, it resumed in its present format and has been celebrated annually ever since With a duration of approximately six weeks, the Festival now entices over a million visitors to Harbin, earning its reputation as the most remarkable among the world's four major ice and snowfestivals
Despite sharing a similar latitude with Dunedin, New Zealand in the southern hemisphere, Harbin experiences much harsher winters. Temperatures can plummet to as low as -35°C, emphasising the importance of a warm and comfortable base hotel to retreatto.
Harbin is a city full of surprises. Over a century, it has evolved from a Russian engineers' base camp, involved in surveying the eastern extension of the Trans-Siberian rail line It also served as a sanctuary for up to 25,000 Jewish refugees escaping persecution in the early 1900s BeforeWorldWarII,thisregionwasconsidereda potential permanent home for the Jewish people, alongside Palestine and Morocco Although many Jewish residents left for Israel and Japan in 1945, a significantJewishcommunityremains
The city's rich historical tapestry, influenced by foreign cultures, is most evident in the Daoli District, the oldest andmostcaptivatingpartofHarbin Here,you'llfindthe finest shopping areas, centred around Asia's longest pedestrian mall and its charming cobbled side streets In the 1930s, Harbin hosted consulates from 16 different countries, with over 160,000 foreigners representing 33 nationalitiesmakingHarbintheirhome
The picturesque waterfront promenade, known as Stalin Park, tracing the Songhua River's banks, transforms into a winter wonderland offering a splendid vantage point for the frozen river's vibrant activities During the summer, Harbin thrives as a vital Chinese port city, but come winter, the river undergoes a dramatic change as it freezes over completely The once-active boats become encased in solid ice, while the river itself becomes a playground for various coldweather pursuits. Visitors can partake in ice skating, husky sleigh rides, horse-drawn carriages on sled runners, ice fishing, thrilling slippery slides sculpted entirelyfromice,andevenaningeniousswimmingpool carved into the river's icy surface. A winter visit to Harbin offersauniquelyimmersiveIceandSnowexperience.
Harbin's culinary scene mirrors its cultural diversity and cold climate, blending influences from Russia, China, and the West You can savour delectable Chinese dumplings, indulgent Mongolian lamb hotpots, and a wide array of other mouth-watering specialties, all complemented by the local Hapi beer or chilled vodka It's worth noting that China's very first brewery was established in Harbin by the Russians back in 1906, a testament to the city's rich culinary and cultural heritage
Situated at the heart of the frozen Songhua River, Sun Island plays host to a mesmerising display of snow sculptures, masterfully crafted by international competitors hailing from countries like Russia, Japan, Canada,France,SouthAfrica,andmanyothers Thelevel of intricacy and attention to detail in these exhibits is truly remarkable While some of the sculptures are imposing in size, it's the quality and imaginative artistry thattrulycaptivate
Reaching the island itself is an adventure in itself, as we journey via cable car (weather permitting) From high above the frozen river, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the waterfront, the bustling river activity, and the city's picturesque landscape As a special treat, we'll have the opportunity to witness a private ice carving demonstration, allowing us to witness the immense skill and personalized artistry involvedinthiscaptivatingcraft.
You've probably seen glimpses of this awe-inspiring spectacleonyourTVscreenseveryJanuary,butnothing compares to experiencing it in person. Sun Island dedicates a substantial area to half-sized replicas of world-famous landmarks, iconic palaces, and colossal sculptures These remarkable creations are painstakingly crafted from blocks of ice sourced from the Songhua River, and they come alive at night with theenchantingglowoffluorescentlightingfromwithin It's a sight that truly defies comparison anywhere on Earth
Journey Highlights
ICESWIMMING
The Songhua River is frozen solid in winter, but a swimming pool is cut into the river ice to allow locals to swim in the freezing water flowing under the thick surface ice cover It’s quite a spectacle, and of course we’ll be there to see it all.
SIBERIANTIGERPARK
The endangered Siberian Tiger, ancestor of all tiger species, has less than 700 remaining in the wild They can grow up to 4 metres long and up to 300kg in weight The Park is just 15kms from Harbin It started with just 8 tigers in 1986, but now houses about 50 tigers and several hundred other animals. Tigers are bred at the Park and protected. We see them close up and at their best from our own private safari coach.
ICE&SNOWSCULPTURESHOW
There are ice sculptures decorating the local streets and parks, but the best competitive exhibition is in Zhaolin Park These are smaller sculptures carved with incredible skill into creative shapes that leave you speechless. The Park is also lit in the evening, so we’ll be taking the best opportunities to see these works of art at the very best time of the day
STSOPHIACHURCH
This magnificent Russian Orthodox Church is Harbin’s most famous landmark, and the largest of its kind in the Far East. Originally built in 1907 by the Russian Army, its Byzantine architecture and 52 metre spire, now houses the excellent Architecture and Art Exhibition, tracing the historic Russian influence and architecture of Harbin.
CENTRALSTREETDISTRICT
Harbin’s major shopping area is 1½km long pedestrian mall, the longest in Asia, with atmospheric cobbled side streets showcasing the architecture and cultures of historic foreign influences It runs at a right angle to the waterfront, through the oldest part of the city The frozen waterfront and river are alive with activity - horse and husky sleigh rides, local ice games, ice fishing etc.
NIGHTLIGHTS
Harbin also celebrates its Winter Festival with a wonderful array of night lights where the main avenues are ablaze with colour All the major roundabouts and many buildings are showcased with carved ice displays highlighted by special lighting
VOLGAMANOR
The Volga Manor in Harbin is a captivating and enchanting cultural park that offers a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Russian minority in China. Nestled on the banks of the Songhua River, this sprawling estate will transport you to a bygone era with its meticulously preserved Russian architecture, lush gardens, and picturesque landscapes The manor's architecture reflects a blend of Russian and Chinese influences, making it a unique testament to the coexistence of these two cultures The Volga Manor is not just a tourist destination; it's a cultural journey that offers an immersive experience in the history and heritage of the Russian community in China
JAPANESEGERMWARFAREEXPERIMENTALBASE731
Prior to WW2, the Japanese Army operated a number of germ warfare experimental bases around the world, but the most notorious was operated by the Japanese Army Medical Unit 731 just 30kms from Harbin It was a top secret base only exposed in the 1980’s by a Japanese journalist Up to 10,000 POW’s were used for experimentation - mainly Chinese, Russian, Korean, British and American We make a visit to the Centre which today portrays the graphic story, in what is left of the original buildings.
JEWISHSYNAGOGUE
Once the centre of Harbin’s vibrant Jewish community, this three story temple proudly displays the Jewish history and culture of Harbin, and the outstanding contribution the early Jewish community made to the social development of the city. We have a private visit and hear from a local about this quite amazing and dynamic contribution
Your Tour Escort
The tour will be escorted by our Senior Travel Advisor Michelle Yates from
Michelle will travel with you on this outstanding journey, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and previous travel experience, along with a passion for people, places and different cultures.
You will find that Michelle will take every opportunity to make this tour on of life’s most outstanding memories.
The Travel Studio
Tour Itinerary
Brisbane to Guangzhou
Overnight Crowne Plaza, with transfers
Guangzhou (4-Star)
Guangzhou to Harbin.
Transfer to Shangri-la Hotel
City orientation tour & Jewish Synagogue (Breakfast/Dinner)
Morning- Visit to St Sofia Church, Flood
Control Monument & Stalin Park
Afternoon - Visit to Songhua River & Ji Le
Temple
Evening - Ice Sculptures at Zhaolin Park (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Morning - Visit to Zhonghua Baroque
Historic Street district
Afternoon - Cable Car Ride across to Sun
Island to view Snow Sculptures
Dinner at Russian restaurant (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Morning - Siberian Tiger Park and tiger feeding
Afternoon - Visit to Unit 731 Germ
Warfare Museum
Evening - Ice and Snow World (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Morning - Volga Manor
Afternoon - At leisure (Breakfast/Lunch)
Harbin to Guangzhou
Guangzhou to Brisbane (Breakfast)
Arrive Brisbane
Tour Extension Ideas
Tour Costs
7 DAY COMPLETE SMALL-GROUP ESCORTED TOUR
All inclusive deluxe touring ex Australia
$6,995 Per Person 12th - 19th January 2026
Our exclusive tours are designed to experience the very best the region has to offer in one itinerary, at the very best time to visit. This is a highly personalised deluxe tour using high quality operators, accommodation and transfers
*Single Supplement $1,595 per person
Business class upgrades available on request
Tour Inclusions
Return flights Brisbane to Harbin including taxes
1 night (4-Star) hotel stay en route to Harbin
5 Night’s accommodation at Shangri-la Hotel (5-Star), Harbin/Riverview rooms
Your Tour Escort
Breakfast, lunches and dinners included (as per itinerary)
All sightseeing excursions outlined in itinerary
Monument entrance fees
Transfers and land travel in and around Harbin by coach with English speaking guide
Daily bottled water
Travel Masters experienced Tour Manager & English speaking local Tour Guides throughout
Gratuities to guides, drivers – whilst on group tour activities
Accommodation
SHANGRI - LA 5☆ HARBIN
Located in the Daoli district and on the river, the 5-star Shangri-La is recognised as the best hotel in Harbin It lies across the river from the famous Ice and Snow World, and features two restaurants offering a hearty international breakfast buffet The Lobby Lounge has a full service bar and light snacks There is a fitness centre, heated indoor swimming pool, spa tub, steam room and sauna.
The Deluxe Rooms are defined by their exquisite comfort, which showcase a touch of contemporary luxury in the heart of Harbin
FIRST PASSENGER
Title: Surname (as shown on passport):
First Name (as shown on passport):
Preferred First Name:
Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE
Do you require single supplement? YES / NO
Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO
(Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you)
Do you wish to book an extension? YES / NO
Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO
Do you have any dietary or seating requests:
Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality: Passport Number: Date of Issue: / / Date of Expiry: / /
Date of Birth: / / Place of Issue:
Email Address:
SECOND PASSENGER
Title: Surname (as shown on passport):
First Name (as shown on passport):
Occupation:
Preferred First Name:
Sex: MALE / FEMALE If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE
Do you require single supplement? YES / NO
Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO
(Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you)
Do you wish to book an extension? YES / NO
Do you require business class airfare? YES / NO
Are you a Frequent Flyer Member with Qantas/Emirates? If yes, Membership: (airline)
Do you have any dietary or seating requests:
Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO If No, please state the nationality: Passport Number: Date of Issue: / / Date of Expiry: / /
Date of Birth: / / Place of Issue:
Email Address:
PASSENGER/S CONTACT DETAILS
Occupation:
(Please attach details separately if Second Passengers Contact Details are different)
Street Address:
Suburb: State:
Postal Address (if different from street address):
Postcode:
Suburb: State: Postcode:
Home Tel: Work Tel: Fax: Mobile No: Email:
TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is compulsory and in your interest to carry travel insurance for health, loss of luggage/belongings and in case of cancellation. Would you like us to send a travel insurance brochure to you? YES / NO
I have read and understand the responsibility section detailed in this brochure and the General Information and Booking Conditions and accept them on behalf of myself and my party I declare that I/they are not travelling against any medical advice
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Date: / / Your Travel Adviser:
EMERGENCY CONTACT
(Person to contact should there be an emergency while you are overseas)
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PAYMENT OPTIONS
1 Direct Deposit
2 Credit Card – Please debit my:
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(Payments by credit card will be subject to a 1 5% Merchant Administration fee/VISA & Mastercard
3 Direct Deposit into Travel Masters bank account Please call for bank details
DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT
The deposit of $1,000 per person is accepted as a first instalment of the tour cost and will be fully refunded if the arrangements cannot be confirmed or the tour is cancelled by Travel Masters A second deposit of $2,000 is due on the 1st June 2025 to secure your included flight arrangements A detailed invoice is sent out to all passengers booked on the tour, approximately two weeks prior to due date of the final payment Final payment for the tour must be received by 6 October 2025
CANCELLATION FEES
If it is necessary for you to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing Cancellation charges will apply: up to 6 October 2025, loss of deposit After 6 October 2025, no refund is applicable No refund is available for cancellation of the tour or any service not used after commencement of the tour Deposits are non-transferable/non refundable
PASSPORT AND VISAS
It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure that they possess the necessary travel documentation for the tour, such as a valid passport and any required visas In general, a passport should be valid at least 6 months beyond the end of your journey At the time of print, a Chinese Tourist Visa is not currently needed for a stay in China up to 30 days However, should this change we will assist you with obtaining any nessassary entry requirements
PRICES
RESPONSIBILITY
MistvalePtyLtdtradingasTravelMastersand/orits associatedCompaniesor Agents, act only in the capacity of agents for the passenger in all matters of transportation,touroperationandotherservices Allreceipts,tickets,vouchers, coupons or exchange orders are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which transportation and other services are provided Travel Masters and/or its associated companies or Agents assume no responsibility for loss, injury, accident, delay or damage or irregularity that may be caused to person or property, however caused arising before commencement and/or during any tourunderitsmanagement,sponsorship,procurementorotherwise Itistheresponsibilityofthepassengertomakesurehe/sheisinpossessionof the proper visas and other travel documents and that they are in compliance withcurrentgovernmentandtransportationcompanies’regulations Therightis reservedtomodifytheitineraryinanywayconsiderednecessaryordesirable, or to change any reservation, hotel feature and/or means of conveyance, withoutallowanceorrefundbuttheextracost(ifany)resultingtherefrommust bepaidbythepassenger Therightisalsoreservedtocancelorwithdrawany tour,toreplaceanytourleaderwithanother,tocancelorwithdrawanybooking made for a passenger, or to decline to accept any person as a member of a tour Thetransportationcompaniesorfirmsshallbeexemptfromallliabilitiesin respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury however and by whomsoever caused and of whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger atanytimewhenthepassengerisnotonboardacarrierorconveyanceused oroperatedbythetransportationcompaniesorfirms
The contract of passage in use by the transportation companies or firms concernedshallconstitutethesolecontractbetweentransportationcompanies orfirms,andthepurchaseofthesetoursand/orpassenger Alltickets,deposit tickets, coupons or orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other servicesprovidedtherebyareofferedorsuppliedbyowners,publiccarriers,or managingagents Theissuanceandacceptanceof receipts,tickets,vouchers, coupons,orexchangeordersshallbedeemedconsenttotheaboveconditions Thetourisbasedonflightsasdetailedintheitinerary,howeveranyotherIATA ornon-IATAcarriermaybeusedfortour co-ordination
The Travel Studio PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218
Tour prices stated on the tour brochure has been calculated on the basis of exchange rates and tariffs valid at time of print (February 2025) and are subject to change up until final payment for the tour has been received Should you decide to cancel your tour on the basis of a change of price, then normal cancellation charges will apply. Travel Masters PO Box 563, Nerang QLD 4211
Phone: (07) 5572 7272
Email: lifestyle@thetravelstudio com au
Phone: (07) 5596 0511 / 1800 672 988
Email: sales@travelmasters com au
UNAVOIDABLEANDEXTRAORDINARYCIRCUMSTANCES(FORCE MAJEURE)
ForceMajeure-TravelMasters&TheTravelStudioshallnotbeliableforany lossordamageincurredbyyouasaconsequenceofouragencyoranyofthe suppliers being unable to perform its obligations under your contract(s) due to the unusual or unforeseeable circumstances (a “force majeure event”) beyond the control of the party affected by the force majeure event The can include (but not be limited to) threat of war, industrial action, act of God, government enforced travel restrictions, riot, political unrest, global pandemic or natural disaster Should your travel arrangements be cancelled due to an Force Majeure event and a refund offered by the supplier(s) involved in your travel arrangements,TravelMasters&TheTravelStudioretainstheabilitytodeduct from any returned funds reasonable costs and/or the remuneration earned as partofthebookingprocedureandourcontinuedservice
occur as a result of increased costs due to changes in the itinerary, government action, currency exchange rates, fuel costs, overflying costs, airport charges and increases in scheduled airfares The tour itinerary is based on airline schedules, rail and launch schedules current at the time of preparation of this tour Hotel names are subject to change
Where these changes occur, it may be necessary to amend the tour to accommodate revised days of operation We will endeavour to include all the sightseeing and other features included, subject to the constraints of the revised scheduling You will be advised as these events occur The tour cost is based on scheduled airline fares, which are not guaranteed until tickets are issued Our chosen airline reserves the right to increase or decrease airfare at any time prior to ticketing The transportation companies or firms shall be exempt from all liabilities in respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury and by whom so ever caused and whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger at any time
All ticket coupons and orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other services provided are offered or supplied by the owners, operators, public carriers, management agents or agent The tour will be accompanied by an experienced Travel Masters escort We reserve the right to change tour leaders if circumstances determine this
warm Add sweaters, insulated jackets, and down coats to create a barrier against the cold Don't forget a quality pair of waterproof and insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry, and thermal gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your extremities
It's also advisable to pack multiple layers, so you can adjust your clothing based on your level of activity and the temperature And don't underestimate the power of quality thermal socks to keep your feet toasty
While you'll certainly need to bundle up, remember that many indoor attractions and accommodations are well-heated, so it's a good idea to have a mix of warm clothing and lighter layers for comfort when you're inside
PLEASE NOTE – DEGREE OF FITNESS
All Travel Masters itineraries are carefully planned and wellpaced to maximize the passenger experience, while at the same time ensuring a level of comfort is maintained at all times Given the nature of the journeys and cultural experiences etc , any person/s of a reasonable general fitness level will have no problems in gaining total satisfaction from the trip However, should any person be likely to find it necessary to require wheelchair assistance, or walking aid, it is unfortunately considered that participation on this tour would not be appropriate
FINALLY
We hope this information will assist you plan for your holiday We would be delighted to have you join our Travel Masters escorted holiday tour Do not hesitate to telephone or call in, so that we can be of further assistance We want to make this a very happy and memorable tour for you
