Visiting Harbin, you can stroll along the streets and take a look, it's very interesting.
I recommend Harbin Ice and Snow World, the Ice Lantern Tour at Zhaolin Park. Since it's winter, if you want to see authentic ice lanterns, go to Ice and Snow World – you won't be disappointed. But, please, dress warmly (it's actually warmer than in previous years), and go with a buddy, otherwise I won't go – it's too cold, haha. My favorite is the ice slide, but be prepared for long queues.
Harbin has a rich history and unique streets. Take a stroll along the streets and you'll find it interesting. You'll pass by the Gogol Bookstore. In summer, you can visit the St. Sophia Cathedral, and take your time to appreciate it. On Central Street or Gogol Street, it's best to visit in summer and explore the side streets – that's where you'll find the authentic Harbin. If you wake up early, visit the local markets, where you can feel the everyday life of Harbin, listen to people's conversations, and see what they're selling for breakfast, and what they're eating. That will bring you closer to Harbin.
I remember when I traveled to Lijiang, I specifically got up early to explore the local market near my accommodation, seeing many new and unfamiliar fruits. When I went to Kunming, I also bought local fruits. Other attractions (I won't recommend them unless you have plenty of time, money, and energy) – Ganda Ancient Street: Newly developed, quite far, with no other attractions nearby. Its characteristic is that there are authentic Siberian kang beds (of course, it's a simulation), which were traditionally used in Northeast China. Besides these, I don't think they're particularly special; the rest are just typical tourist attractions. Polar Field Museum: Located at the entrance of the Sun Island, suitable for families with children. Couples can also go to see it. I don't recommend the rest. Harbin Grand Theatre: Not recommended, far from the city center. It's a recently built building and is quite attractive. If you don't see a performance, it's not worth the trip. Harbin Symphony Hall (Qianli): Far from the city center. Don't go unless you're a music enthusiast, it will give you an amazing experience. But most tourists can't sit down and quietly listen to a concert far from the city center.
If you want to experience the charm of Harbin as a 'City of Music', you can come to Harbin during the Harbin Music Festival, where many outdoor free concerts will be held in summer squares, lasting a long time. Or you can go to the area around the Heilongtang Street, where there are many music shops, enter and ask if you want to buy a piano, and experience the understanding and presentation of Harbin people towards music.
I don't recommend Northeast Tiger Park, I went there a few years ago and didn't want to go again, even my friends don't take them there.
