China kicks off Harbin ice festival
Towering sculptures of ice and snow are enthralling visitors at the annual ice festival in the northern Chinese city of Harbin. Not to miss are the mini replicas of some of world's most famous structures.
Icy wonder
Towering structures such as miniture replicas of Rome's Colosseum and Milan Cathedral made of ice and snow are some of the highlights of the winter festival in China's Harbin city. The annual event, which began on Saturday, is among the biggest ice festivals in the world.
Colorful paradise
The Harbin ice festival, which started in the early 1980s, welcomes millions of visitors from around the world every year. This year, the festival will run until February 28.
'Disneyland in winter'
Night tours at the Harbin ice festival are a major attraction for visitors, many of whom are eager to see the ice structures illuminated from within. "It's like Disneyland, Disneyland in winter," a Chinese tourist told Reuters news agency.
Adventure on ice
Winter sports are an integral part of the festival. Visitors can take part in several activities, including sled rides on the Songhua river and speed skating.
Conquering the chill
On Saturday, more than 300 men and women braved the bitter cold waters to compete in the festival's swimming tournament. Swimming enthusiasts train for months to prepare for the event.
Snowmen, snowmen everywhere
Though the festival officially starts on January 5, celebrations kick off in the third week of December. More than 2,000 snowmen were built last month to welcome the new year.