Harbin Ice Festival, how, where and what?

[kiwitripper64]

We are thinking of trying to get to the Harbin Ice festival ( starts 5 Jan -28 Jan 2014). I have been keen for years, but have finally convinced the family that cold AND China could be fun. I see a few of the members have been in the past and would be grateful for any tips.
We will be tacking the trip there on the way back from work in UK. The first problem I see is that no One World flights go to Harbin. Any tips on how you got there fast and safe, ie LHR DXB fly into Beijing (BJS or PEK?) then fly to Harbin? Or do members recommend flying into a different city ie Shangei or Guangzhou?
Also keen on accommodation tips, as there is not a lot on offer. Finally, how long did you spend there and what else did you do? We will probably be going with 19yr boy and 15yr girl, so architectural tours of 13 Dynasty are probably out. ( unless tour guide suitably hot /hunky ).

 

[Hvr]

Well you're in luck, at least a couple of us have been to Harbin. Do a search and you'll find a magnificent trip report from MunitalP.

I suggest you fly into PEK and then onto Harbin. While there aren't any OW airlines that fly there have a look on Expedia for cheap fares, especially in first class which sometimes isn't much more expensive than economy.

I'd suggest about five days would give you enough time to see the sites and enjoy.

I stayed in the Holiday Inn which was cheap and good.

Whilst there I strongly suggest visiting Unit 731 where the Japanese conducted horrific experiments during WWII. Whilst very grim it is a place that you will remember forever.

I'm sure the other posters who've visited Harbin will contribute in due course.

 

[Happy Dude]

I've been but in such different circumstances to you that I can't offer much advice. I will say that the trains between Beijing and Haerbin may be a good option for your family, or fly on one of the Chinese airlines. Preparation is the key to cold weather travel and pay particular attention to your head, hands and feet. I spent a few days there (plenty) doing the festival by night and pottering around the town by day. Because of it's location, its an interesting mix of a place - didn't feel Chinese or Russian. There's lots of activity on the frozen river. It's an awesome spectacle and you'll have a great time.