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China, Harbin, City Impressions, St. Sophia Cathedral Place.

Heilongjiang Province, the most northeast part of China, when viewed on a map has the shape of a swan. Its capital city is Harbin, which is located south of Heilongjiang.

 

Not only for its special position, but also as the centre of Heilongjiang's political, economic, educational & cultural life, Harbin is described as the pearl beneath the swan's neck. Lying on the east of the Songnen Plain, what is more, Harbin plays a vital role in communications between South & North Asia as well the regions of Europe & the Pacific Ocean.

Harbin was the birthplace of Jin, 1115-1234 & Qing, 1644-1911, Dynasties, the latter of which had a very considerable influence on modern Chinese history.

 

At the end of the 19th century, Russia built the terminus of the Middle East Railway here. Later, more than 160,000 foreigners from 33 countries migrated to Harbin, promoting the development of a capitalist economy in the city. The economy & culture of Harbin achieved unprecedented prosperity at that time & the city gradually grew into a famous international commercial port. Assimilating external culture, Harbin created its unique & exotic cityscape. The majestic St. Sofia Orthodox Church & Zhongyang Dajie each built in a European style have the effect of bringing you into an 'eastern Moscow'. Even though you are sure to be attracted by various exotic buildings, the Dragon Tower which embodies the wisdom of the Chinese people is a must on your journey.

 

Besides these rich cultural heritages, Harbin is favoured with beautiful natural scenery. Based on meandering Song Hua River & subject to severe low temperatures in winter, down to -30°C, when I took this Pictures the Temperature varied between -20°C & -26°C but dry air, Harbin boasts a unique ice & snow culture. So, Harbin is also called the "Ice City".

 

The impressive "Ice & Snow Festival" is the greatest & unusual one in the world, therefor Harbin is also called the "Ice City".

As well the large Siberian Tiger & white tigers research centre, with about 500 tigers & a few other species, does an important work to prevent this species from extinction. The Research centre can be visited, tours in small a bus are available, passing through wide natural, separated, sections, however the focus point is to save the tigers.

 

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Uploaded on March 12, 2021
Taken on January 6, 2009