Harbin Travel Forum

I will be travelling to Beijing from about Dec 22 - Jan 20 this month, and I am trying to squeeze in a weekend trip to Harbin to see Unit 731 and the Ice Festival from Jan 12-14. My questions are:
1) Will these two sights be open on Friday/Saturday/Sunday if I take an overnight train from Beijing on Thursday and arrive Friday?
2) Would the previous weekend be a better time to go (Jan 5-7)? This would be the only other time I could go.
3) Is it better to take a train or fly? As long as the train is safe and reliable I have no problem using that method.
4) I have a pretty good digital camera -- should I be worried it will freeze or break if I try to take pictures in the extreme cold?

Thanks so much for your help!

First, i think travelling by train is ok. U can arrive in Harbin in the morning and have a full day to visit. The Ice Festival will start on Jan 5, so u can decide whether u will be here during 5-7 or 12-14. I think both 731 and Ice Festival will be open on those days. Harbin is not so cold, so don't worry, your camera will be ok. BTW, Harbin is my hometown and I live very near to 731, so if having any problem, don't hesitate to ask me. My email: translationstudies@hotmail.com

1) Yes, I think so. Definitely yes for the latter.
3) I'd prefer train. Yes, safe and reliable.
4) No, but do remember to keep it close to your body at all times. Batteries run out very quickly when it's cold.

Thanks for the quick responses, I'm really looking forward to heading up there - the Ice Festival seems amazing. Can't wait to see it!