Central Street

If you come to Central Street, you must taste authentic Russian-style Western food and famous Madieer popsicles. With a history of over 100 years, Central Street is home to many classical European buildings and various department stores. When night falls, the whole street becomes colorful, thus making it a must-see sight in Harbin.

Central Street stretches from Flood Control Monument beside the Songhuajiang River in the north to Jingwei Street in the south. Situated on both sides of this pedestrian street paved by square stones are numerous European romantic buildings constructed with Renaissance style, baroque style, and other styles. During the International Ice and Snow Festival, the street is full of interesting ice and snow sculptures, with which you can take photos of.

As the most prosperous business street, Central Street always attracts numerous shopping lovers with its various large department stores. Many travelers come here for delicious Madieer popsicles and famous Russian-style Western restaurants, such as Huamei Western Restaurant and Portman Western Restaurant. Also, travelers can go to specialty shops, such as Russian Handicraft Shop and Qiulin Food Shop.

At the northernmost end of Central Street is Flood Control Monument. Walking eastward from the middle of Central Street for 5 minutes, you can reach Zhaolin Park, the venue for Winter Ice Lamp Garden Party. Walking eastward from the south of Central Street for less than 10 minutes, you can get to Saint Sophia Church.

Tips:

1. There are many stores that sell Russian goods. However, handcrafts such as matryoshka dolls are expensive, and it is difficult to make counter offers. It is recommended to go to Toulong Market of Small Commodities for cheaper articles.

2. Even in summer, the wind beside the Songhuajiang River is cool. It is recommended to wear a long-sleeve coat when you hang out on Central Street or beside the river.

3. Winter is the peak season for travelling in Harbin. Especially during the International Ice and Snow Festival, Russian-style Western restaurants experience a brisk business, so it takes a long time to order seats.

4. There are two postal offices in the middle of Central Street (one at the Shangyou Street Crossing, the other at the Xiwudao Street Crossing). If you want to buy a postal card, just come here.

Tel: 0086-0451-84545796

How to get here: take Bus 53, 113, 115, or 126, and get off at Central Street

Admission: free

Opening hours: all day

Sightseeing time: about 3 hours

Address: Central Street, Daoli District, Harbin City