Harbin -- capital city of China’s northernmost Heilongjiang province -- has witnessed rapid development of its tourism industry, under the guidance of the concept that "green mountains and clear water can be mountains of gold and silver," according to local tourist officials.

Harbin has a reputation as China’s “Summer Capital” and “Ice City” due to its pleasant summer temperature, plentiful tourism attractions, rich winter activities and splendid ice and snow landscapes.

In 2019, Harbin received 95.80 million domestic and foreign tourists throughout the year, bringing in total tourism revenue of 157.57 billion yuan ($22.09 billion), ranking it first in China's top 10 winter ice and snow travel destinations.

In recent years, Harbin has continued to expand its tourism spending.

In 2019, the city renovated the overall infrastructure along Harbin Central Avenue and upgraded Yabuli scenic area.

The tourism authority has also launched more than 40 cultural and tourism festivals last year, held eight international events and staged more than 100 major cultural performances.

Among the city’s own special activities is the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival, the Sun Island Snow Sculpture Art Expo, the Harbin Ice Lantern Fair, Harbin Ice Collection Festival and the Harbin Wetland Festival.

In addition to promoting tourism during Harbin’s best seasons for visits, the city is making efforts to promote tourism throughout the year. This will feature leisure, entertainment, sightseeing and cultural experiences, according to local officials.