Harbin · A City’s Color
Harbin’s colors are cream yellow and ice white—the Russian-style buildings of Central Street, the green domes of St. Sophia Cathedral, the crystalline sparkle of Ice and Snow World. In minus-30-degree winters, Harbin locals still line up to buy Modern ice pops.
Signature Snacks
Guo Bao Rou (Double-Cooked Sweet and Sour Pork)
Harbin’s pride. Pork tenderloin sliced, battered, and double-fried, then coated in sweet and sour sauce. Crispy outside, tender inside, perfectly balanced sweet and sour. Created by Zheng Xingwen of Laochujia during the Guangxu era, originally called “Guo Bao Rou” (pot-exploded meat), mispronounced by Russian guests as the modern name.
Harbin Red Sausage
The Chinese adaptation of Russian smoked sausage. Pork and beef, seasoned with garlic and black pepper, fruitwood-smoked. Slice and eat directly, or stir-fry and make soup. Qiulin Company and the Meat Packing Plant make the most authentic ones.
Modern Ice Pop
The ice pop stand at the entrance of Modern Hotel on Central Street has been there for over a hundred years. Only two flavors: original and chocolate. Rich milky flavor—people still line up in minus-30-degree winter.
Recommended Shops
| Shop | Address | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Laochujia | Daoli District, Youyi Road | Guo Bao Rou |
| Qiulin Company | Nangang District, Dongdazhi Street | Red Sausage / Dalieba Bread |
| Modern | Central Street | Ice Pops |
| Huamei Western Restaurant | Central Street | Russian Cuisine |