Hi everyone, I’m Michael Zhang. After spending years exploring destinations across China and around the world, I’ve grown especially fascinated by places where nature, climate, and culture intertwine to create a story of their own. Snow Town—officially known as Shuangfeng Forest Farm—is one of those rare destinations. The snow here isn’t just winter scenery; it’s a landscape shaped by geography, weather systems, and local heritage. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the climate patterns, cultural character, and must-see highlights of Snow Town, so you’ll understand its appeal long before you arrive and see why it’s a place worth experiencing in person.

Summary

Snow Town Overview

Snow Town, officially called Shuangfeng Forest Farm in Heilongjiang, is also known as Snow Town National Forest Park. It sits 352 km from Harbin, 174 km from Mudanjiang, and 289 km from Jilin City. Located where the Zhangguangcai Ridge and Laoye Ridge of the Changbai Mountain Range meet, this region lies at the intersection of cold air from Lake Baikal and warm, moist currents from the Sea of Japan. As a result, it forms a unique microclimate known for having “no more than three sunny days in summer and endless snow in winter.” Snow lasts for nearly seven months each year, reaching depths of up to two meters and creating natural snow sculptures in countless shapes.

Snow Town is rated a national AAAA tourist attraction, home to 45 species of mammals across 6 orders and 18 families, and 243 bird species across 16 orders and 44 families. White pines dominate the area—about 60% of all trees—earning it the nickname “The Hometown of White Pine.” As one of the top destinations for in-depth travel in China, Snow Town offers unforgettable snowfields and winter landscapes.

  • Address: Heilongjiang Province, within the Dahailin Forestry Bureau jurisdiction of Mudanjiang City (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hours: 24 hours; most shops operate from 08:00–21:00
  • Recommended visit duration: 1 day
  • Best travel season: December to February; mid-November is possible, though deeper snow usually begins forming in December
  • Ticket price: 140 CNY (peak season November–April), 70 CNY (off-season May–November)
Snow Town night view covered in heavy snow

Snow Town Map

Snow Town illustrated tourist map

Why You Should Visit Snow Town

A Pure, Fairy-Tale Snow Landscape

Snow Town is famous for its distinctive “snow mushrooms” and “snow cakes,” formed by deep layers of fine, crystalline snow that can reach two meters. Rooftops and streets are blanketed in smooth curves of white, creating scenes that feel lifted from a winter fantasy.

Rich Northeastern Folk Culture

  • Traditional performances such as er’renzhuan comedy shows and yangko dancing fill the evening theaters, adding vibrant cultural energy.
  • Folk activities like dumpling-making, papercutting, and winter fishing offer hands-on experiences with local life.

A Wide Range of Winter Activities

Snow Town provides skiing, snowmobiles, horse-drawn sleds, snow tubing, and more—making it easy for travelers of all ages to enjoy the fun of a Northern Chinese winter.

Top Things to Do in Snow Town

Main Attractions

Xueyun Street (Snow Rhythm Street)

As the busiest main street in Snow Town, Xueyun Street carries the warmth and daily rhythm of this winter village. Both sides of the street are lined with Northeastern snacks, local souvenir shops, and traditional folk-culture experiences. At night, the lights cast a soft glow over the famous “snow mushrooms,” creating one of the most charming scenes for first-time visitors. The food options here are diverse, and the average cost is about 30–40 CNY per person, which makes it easy to stroll, snack, and dive into the unique winter lifestyle of northeastern China.

  • 18:30 Reindeer Carriage Parade (Xueyun Street)
  • 19:00 Northeastern Yangko Dance Performance (Xueyun Street)
  • 19:30 Bonfire Dance Party for Thousands (Dashibei)
Snowy street with husky sleds in Snow Town

Dream Home (Menghuan Jiayuan)

Dream Home is the most iconic landmark in Snow Town, known for its concentrated clusters of giant “snow mushrooms.” The classic wooden log houses take on soft, rounded shapes under heavy snow, turning the entire area into a fairy-tale scene beloved by photographers. Inside the park, visitors can try snow tubing, which adds a fun and fast-paced way to enjoy the winter landscape. Climbing to the upper viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama of the snowfields. Meanwhile, the 17:30–20:00 light show is nothing short of magical, as warm light washes over the snow and transforms the scenery into something dreamlike. The park also hosts Northeastern er’renzhuan comedy shows, but these require a separate ticket.

  • Dream Home admission: 120 CNY
  • Er’renzhuan performance: 120 CNY
Dream Home scenic area illuminated at night

Yaxue Post Station Ten-Mile Gallery

Located along the Yaxue Highway, this Ten-Mile Gallery is the part of Snow Town where you can truly “step into the heart of nature.” The hiking trail winds through pristine forest, and the snow paths curve gently between frost-covered trees. Surrounded by rime frost and thick snow, the entire route feels like a living winter painting. Along the way, travelers pass the Alpine Zoo, Snowman Valley, and other natural highlights, while also having the option to try activities such as the snow dragon ride, snowmobiles, and horse-drawn sleds.

  • Ticket: 180 CNY
YaXue Station Ten-Mile Gallery winter landscape

Datudingzi Mountain

Datudingzi Mountain is one of the best places to admire the high-altitude snowfields of Snow Town, and the journey itself offers a small sense of adventure. First, you will board the “Snow Dragon” shuttle to reach the snowmobile transfer point. Then, a snowmobile takes you to the mid-mountain area, where you continue on foot through the Dragon Tunnel until you reach the summit. The whole trip covers about 4.5 km round-trip. The summit provides a wide, unobstructed view of the endless snowfields. To the left sits a scenic platform; to the right lies a cluster of bare, twisted branches that perfectly reflects the rugged northern winter aesthetic. If you arrive at sunset, you’ll see warm light spill across the snow—a breathtaking moment in Snow Town. When descending, you can follow the “dragon-spine walkway,” which consists of stepped paths. Because the snow can be slippery, wearing shoes with good traction is important.

  • Ticket (admission + Snow Dragon + snowmobile): 280 CNY
Datudingzi Mountain snowy forest scenery

Snow Town Ticket Guide

In addition to the main Snow Town entrance ticket (140 CNY), most visitors also purchase the Dream Home ticket (120 CNY). Inside Dream Home, the er’renzhuan performance requires another ticket (120 CNY), though it’s usually not recommended. Meanwhile, the sightseeing shuttle (15 CNY) is unnecessary because the walking distance is short.

Two-Day, One-Night Trip

A two-day, one-night visit is highly recommended because Snow Town is far from the city, transportation is not very convenient, and there are many surrounding activities. Aside from booking a private car, the easiest option is to join a guided tour.

  • Route
    • Day 1: Harbin → Forest Snowfield Crossing → Ice & Snow Gallery → Snow Town → Dream Home / Snow Hot Spring / Snow Show → Check in at Snow Town hotel
    • Day 2: Snow Town → Dream Home → Datudingzi Mountain → Harbin
  • Recommended 2-day private car/tour package: Click to view itinerary and prices

Same-Day Round Trip

A same-day return between Harbin and Snow Town is possible only with private transport. Travelers can take the 07:00 train to Yabuli West, then hire a car to visit Snow Town and nearby attractions. At night, return to Yabuli West and take the 21:00 train back to Harbin, arriving around 22:00.

  • Route: Yabuli West pickup → Horse-drawn Sled (80 CNY) → Datudingzi Mountain + Ice & Snow Gallery (280 CNY) → Snow Town (140 CNY) → Drop-off at Yabuli West
  • Train stations: Harbin Ha’erbin – Yabuli West Yabulixi
  • Train tickets: Click to purchase

Snow Town Gear Checklist

  • Shoes: Professional hiking boots or snow boots work best. Choose shoes with strong grip because many paths in Snow Town and the surrounding snowfields can be icy and slippery.
  • Socks: The thicker, the better.
  • Snow gaiters: If you don’t plan to step deep into the snow, gaiters aren’t necessary. However, if you want to crawl, kneel, or play in fresh snow, you’ll need proper gaiters. Snow on the roadside can easily reach knee height. Gaiters keep snow out of your shoes; once snow melts inside your boots and freezes again, it becomes unbearable.
  • Pants: Waterproof fabrics that don’t cling to snow are ideal. The cold isn’t as much of a concern because you’ll warm up while walking. Two warm base layers plus one waterproof outer layer are usually enough.
  • Tops: Thermal base layer + cashmere sweater + fleece + down jacket. Adjust as needed based on your body temperature and the weather, because you can get sweaty quickly.
  • Scarf and mask: Bring them as backup. You don’t need to cover your whole face; if it feels cold, warm it with your hands for a moment, and your skin will adapt. For those who wear glasses, a mask may fog them up and affect visibility.
  • Gloves: Bring one pair of fleece gloves and one pair of waterproof skiing gloves. It’s hard to take photos with ski gloves on, so use the fleece gloves for shooting and switch to the ski gloves when your hands get cold.
  • Hat: Make sure it covers your ears.
  • Glasses: Sunglasses aren’t necessary. If you’re nearsighted, contact lenses are more practical. When you lower your head to adjust your scarf or camera, heat from your breath fogs up the lens quickly, and the low temperatures can even turn that fog into ice.
  • Trekking pole: Useful but not essential. You can also pick up a sturdy branch on the mountain as a makeshift walking stick.
  • Backpack: Keep it light. Avoid unnecessary weight.
  • Camera: Batteries drain quickly in cold weather. Keep them close to your body for warmth and bring extra batteries.
  • Food and water: If you plan to hike outdoors for three to four hours, bring high-calorie snacks such as chocolate. Always carry water in an insulated bottle.

Snow Town’s main street, Xueyun Street, offers many restaurants and affordable meals. The average cost is about 50 CNY per person. You’ll also find plenty of local snacks worth trying.

  • Candied hawthorn: Hawthorn, strawberries, grapes, and other fruits coated in a crisp sugar shell—sweet, sour, and juicy.
  • Roasted sweet potato: Caramelized skin with a soft, honey-like center; perfect for warming up.
  • Frozen pear: Sweet, icy, refreshing, and surprisingly juicy.
  • Iron-pot stew: Pork, chicken, or fish slow-cooked in a big iron pot with rich Northeastern flavors—best enjoyed with friends around the pot.
  • Northeastern cuisine: Sauerkraut pork, pork stewed with vermicelli, cabbage tofu stew, sauerkraut vermicelli, and more—help yourself freely at the state-operated buffet restaurants.
Northeastern Chinese stew with ribs and vegetables

Snow Town hotels are famously expensive during peak season, and this is often the biggest part of the travel budget. Since there aren’t better options nearby, most travelers stay one night in a guesthouse inside Snow Town. Rooms typically have the traditional Northeastern heated brick bed, which is a unique experience.

Cuiguodong Family Hostel

Cuiguodong Family Hostel
  • Location: Inside Snow Town
  • Price per night: 473 CNY
  • Check rates: Trip Deals
  • Rating: Trip 9.0
  • Special Amenities: Triple, quadruple, and quintuple rooms

The guesthouse has an excellent location near Xueyun Street and the Bonfire Square. As one of the more “affordable” options inside Snow Town, it’s ideal for travelers who want to control their budget.

Clean rooms, spotless bedding, strong heating, and well-maintained facilities.

YUNDINGXUEHOTEL

YUNDINGXUEHOTEL
  • Location: Inside Snow Town
  • Price per night: 803 CNY
  • Check rates: Trip Deals
  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Triple rooms, quintuple rooms

The location is convenient and only a few minutes’ walk from Xueyun Street. Because of its renovation quality and fair pricing, the value is excellent for Snow Town.

Newly renovated with clean and organized rooms. Modern amenities, heated floors, and a fireplace-style heater create a comfortable environment. Guests appreciate thoughtful additions such as humidifiers and warm-air machines.

Lanting Snow Hotel (Xuexiang National Forest Park)

Lanting Snow Hotel (Xuexiang National Forest Park)
  • Location: Inside Snow Town
  • Price per night: 1,396 CNY
  • Check rates: Trip Deals
  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Family room

Conveniently located near major attractions like Dashibei and Xueyun Street. It’s the high-end choice inside Snow Town and recommended for travelers who want better hotel quality.

Modern and well-equipped rooms featuring smart curtains, heated floors, and fireplace-style heaters. Friendly staff and good breakfast.

How to Travel From Harbin to Snow Town

Taking a direct tourist bus to Snow Town is the most cost-effective and convenient option. The departure point is near Central Street, which is easy to access.

Tourist Bus

Taking the direct tourist bus is the easiest choice. Although the ride is long, it provides the best value.

  • Departure location: Harbin Central Street International Tourism Service Center (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Ticket price: 100–120 CNY
  • Schedule:
    • Harbin → Snow Town: 6:30, 6:31, 9:00
    • Snow Town → Harbin: 9:00, 12:30
  • Travel time: 5.5 hours
  • How to buy: Longyue Travel Mini Program or on-site ticket purchase

High-speed Train + Tourist Bus

If you don’t want to sit on a long bus ride, take the high-speed train to Yabuli, then transfer to the tourist bus to Snow Town. The tourist bus boarding area is right across from the entrance of Yabuli West Station—walk inside to find the Snow Town bus waiting area.

  • Train route: Harbin Ha’erbin – Yabuli West Yabulixi
  • Train tickets: Click to buy
  • Tourist bus ticket: 85 CNY
  • Schedule:
    • Yabuli West → Snow Town: 12:00, 12:30
    • Snow Town → Yabuli West: 12:30, 13:30
  • Travel time: 3 hours
  • How to buy: Longyue Travel Mini Program or on-site ticket purchase

How to Travel From Mudanjiang to Snow Town

The most convenient and economical option is the high-speed train plus tourist bus.

High-speed Train + Tourist Bus

Take the high-speed train from Mudanjiang to Yabuli, then transfer to the tourist bus. The boarding area is the same as mentioned above, right across from the entrance of Yabuli West Station.

  • Train route: Mudanjiang – Yabuli West Yabulixi
  • Train tickets: Click to buy
  • Tourist bus ticket: 85 CNY
  • Schedule:
    • Yabuli West → Snow Town: 12:00, 12:30
    • Snow Town → Yabuli West: 12:30, 13:30
  • Travel time: 3 hours
  • How to buy: Longyue Travel Mini Program or on-site ticket purchase

FAQ

Is Snow Town suitable for independent travel?

It’s possible to visit Snow Town on your own. However, joining a tour or booking a private car usually works better because Snow Town is far from major cities, transportation is complicated, and the routes are not easy to link together without planning. At minimum, you’ll need a private car to make the itinerary fit well.