The 24th Harbin Ice and Snow World started trial operations on Dec 17 and is scheduled to officially open to tourists on Dec 22.
 
Harbin Ice and Snow World is a highlight of the annual ice and snow festival in Harbin, capital of China's northernmost Heilongjiang province.
 
The ever-popular extravaganza will feature exquisite ice and snow sculptures, performances on ice, as well as an array of ice-and-snow-related activities.
 
This year's Harbin Ice and Snow World covers a total area of 810,000 square meters.
 
More than 150,000 cubic meters of ice and snow have been used to make 100 art pieces to impress visitors.
 
Unlike the previous events of its kind, this year’s Harbin Ice and Snow World will feature a newly-completed giant Ferris wheel in the shape of a snowflake.
   
What's more, the super large ice slide - the most popular entertainment activity for tourists - has been fully upgraded.
 
Not only has the number of slides increased to eight, but the length of the slides has also been extended to 500 meters, which is the longest in history. This means that tourists will have a more exciting time, as they will pick up speed as they slide down.
 
This year's "Ice and Snow Joyful Gathering" in the park covers an area of nearly 100,000 square meters, which has arranged ice and snow entertainment items all in one place, such as snow gasoline vehicles, snow circle drifting, ice bumper cars,  and banana boats. From thrilling to family friendly, there is an activity here to meet everyone's needs.
   
"The Crown of Ice and Snow", the main ice sculpture of the 24th Harbin Ice and Snow World, is illuminated by colorful lights. [Photo/Ice City Plus]