The 37th Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Expo, a major attraction in the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin, opened Friday, offering visitors a range of exciting new features throughout its inaugural weekend. A playful and adorable penguin has made a debut in the snow, delighting visitors who are immersing themselves in the magic of the winter wonderland.
Led by a professional keeper, the penguin thrilled visitors by rolling in the snow and interacting with them. This penguin, one of three polar penguins at the event, will be part of a rotating schedule, giving guests the chance to interact with these charming creatures throughout the winter season.
Penguins are known as the world's most cold-tolerant birds, but since these particular penguins were not born in the South Pole, they don't have thick fur and can only stay outside for about 20 minutes in Harbin's sub-zero temperatures. As a result, every time a penguin appears, it quickly becomes the star of the show, with visitors eager to take photos and selfies.
For those who miss their chance, there's no need to worry -- these three polar penguins will take turns appearing at the Snow Sculpture Expo throughout the season, offering plenty of opportunities for fans to meet them.
This year, the Sun Island Snow Sculpture Expo spans a vast 1.5 million square meters, offering not just breathtaking snow sculptures but also a variety of other winter activities. Among these are the thrilling snow slides, snowball fights, snow festivals, the National Snowbike Race, and the International Snow Sculpture Competition.
The park's entertainment offerings have expanded from previous years, and services have also been enhanced. With temperatures in Harbin dipping well below freezing, visitors can warm up in designated heated rooms when the cold gets too much.
For added convenience, the Harbin Metro Line 2 is now offering free round-trip rides between the Ice and Snow World and the Sun Island Snow Sculpture Expo. Visitors can also take a scenic ride on the Songhua River Cable Car, connecting the Ice and Snow Carnival in the southern part of the city with the Sun Island Expo, making it easier than ever to experience Harbin's top three ice and snow attractions in one day.
With just over a month to go before the 9th Winter Asian Games, Harbin is gearing up to deliver an unforgettable winter sports and cultural extravaganza. The city is ready and waiting to welcome guests to enjoy its icy wonders, making it a must-see destination this winter season.
Harbin winter expo welcomes visitors with exciting new attractions
Harbin winter expo welcomes visitors with exciting new attractions
Harbin winter expo welcomes visitors with exciting new attractions
