Katyusha's fat cat is a little dark...

I walked into the Russian-style town in Harbin wearing a thick down jacket. There was light snow falling from the sky, and my feet made a "crunching" sound as they stepped on the thick snow. It’s not quite the same as what you imagine Russia to be like. The local customs here have a hint of the ruggedness unique to the north. What surprised me most was that I met a few lazy fat cats here. They huddled together in the snow, paying no attention to my camera, as if they were the real owners of this town. This short trip made me love the winter here even more. I hope this guide can help you find more little joys in the snow. [Happy] Address: Sun Island Scenic Area, Songbei District, Harbin [Heart] Opening hours: 8:30-17:00 (please check in advance in winter to avoid adjusting the hours due to weather or activities) [OK]Ticket price: about RMB 20-50, depending on the season (sometimes there are package discounts). 2. Must-see attractions -Russian-style buildings The town in winter is like a silver coat, with churches, wooden houses and bell towers all dotted with snow, making it even more romantic under the sun. It is recommended to take photos in the morning when the light is soft, which is especially suitable for wearing a coat or scarf in winter to blend into the background. -Russian Style Street This street has souvenir shops selling nesting dolls, amber ornaments, vintage oil paintings, and other items, as well as small hand-warming items. It is very healing to stroll here on a snowy day and feel the winter atmosphere of the exotic streets. -Madiel Popsicle Stand If you want to eat popsicles in winter, this is the must-visit spot! Although the weather is very cold, it is a unique experience to taste a classic Harbin popsicle, Madiel, and feel the collision of sweetness and coldness in the snow. -Birch Forest Trail The birch forest in winter is particularly suitable for taking photos. The trees are covered with white snow, looking peaceful and elegant. Strolling through it is especially suitable for couples or families to take a group of warm winter photos. - Russian cabaret performance The small song and dance performances held at fixed times every day are a highlight here. The actors wear traditional Russian costumes and perform passionate songs and dances. It is very special to feel this touch of warmth in the ice and snow. 3. Winter special experiences -Meet cats You can often see lazy cats in the town. They hide on windowsills and in front of wooden house doors, basking in the sun leisurely, and occasionally looking curiously at tourists. If you are lucky, you can take a photo with the cat in the snow, which will be a unique souvenir. -Rent Russian costumes for photo taking The town provides Russian clothing rental services. In winter, you can put on a traditional Russian coat or scarf and pair it with the snow scene and church to take super beautiful retro photos. - Sleigh or horse-drawn carriage ride In winter, the town will have sleigh rides or horse-drawn carriage rides. Riding on a sleigh decorated with colorful lights and traveling through the town will create a special winter festival atmosphere. -Russian food experience The Russian restaurants in the town serve traditional Russian food such as borscht, grilled sausages, and black bread. In winter, enjoying hot soup and barbecue in a warm restaurant is a satisfying way to keep away the cold. -Handmade doll painting In the cold winter, it is also nice to participate in a heartwarming craft activity. Draw your own Russian nesting doll and take it home as a souvenir of your trip. 4. Winter photography tips -Best time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., when the snow scene has soft light, perfect for taking beautiful photos. - Outfit suggestions: The Russian-style town in winter is very suitable for retro or warm matching, such as plush coats, knitted scarves, leather gloves, etc., which are both warm and photogenic. - Shooting angle: Shoot from above in front of the church to highlight the solemnity of the building. Capture the feeling of walking in the snow and use footprints to create a story atmosphere. Use a birch forest or colorful wooden house background to emphasize color contrast. 5. Tips -Warm gear: Wear thick down jackets, warm pants, snow-proof snow boots, gloves, hats and scarves. Wind protection is the key! -Sun protection and cold protection: The ultraviolet rays reflected by the snow are strong in winter, so bring sunscreen and lip balm to avoid dry skin or sunburn. In the winter, Harbin's Russian-style town not only has beautiful snow scenery and buildings, but also rich activities and delicious food, which immerse people in a strong exotic atmosphere. Whether it is a chance encounter with a cat or a stroll in the birch forest, the small town in winter always brings a rare tranquility and warmth. If you like ice and snow and exotic customs, this place is definitely worth a visit!