Journey through scenic Heilongjiang on luxury train

Heilongjiang province in northeast China has much to offer: rich culture, vast natural wonders and scenery that transforms with the seasons.

- Sarah Stanley

It borders Russia to its north and east, and is separated by two rivers: Amur and Ussuri.

In spring and summer, its landscapes burst into life with verdant forests, blooming fields and nature parks with cascading waterfalls and sweeping lakes.

Come winter, temperatures plunge as low as minus 30 deg C, turning its capital Harbin into the famed "Ice City", with frosted streets and glittering ice sculptures.

Visitors can explore Heilongjiang aboard the Yichun Luxury Train, which was launched in October 2024.

This 12-carriage sightseeing locomotive, which can carry up to 190 passengers, has themed cabins inspired by Asia, Europe, America, Africa and Oceania, alongside live entertainment such as song and dance performances.

At the rear, floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views of the passing scenery.