Stalin Park

A riverside linear park (Flood Control Memorial Tower to Jiuzhan), a “Lilac Park” dotted with Russian-style garden features. This linear park spreads along the south bank of the Songhua River, running from the Flood Control Victory Memorial Tower to the Jiuzhan area, parallel to and linked with Central Street. Built from the 1950s, the park has Russian-style garden features scattered among the greenery; “five-color grass flower beds”, colonnades and sculptures make up old Harbin's riverside scenery. In spring Harbin's city flower, the lilac, perfumes the whole park — hence the nickname “Lilac Park”. On summer evenings the river breeze is gentle, and locals fly kites, sketch and dance, each finding their own spot; in winter, small ice sculptures along the bank set off the post-snow scenery. As a free and open city living room, Stalin Park works best as an extension after strolling Central Street — walk along the river, look across at Sun Island, and take in the Ice City's easygoing feel.

Getting there: Jiangpan Lu (Riverside Road)