Chinese boom town thriving on Russian trade

The fact Chinese President Xi Jingping chose Russia as his first foreign visit is no surprise to some. The two countries have been strengthening ties for many years. . Tourism’s growing, there’s talk of increasing energy cooperation, and in 2011 trade volume between the two topped 80 billion dollars, a figure expected to double in […]

Ice Swimming – the key to eternal youth?

It’s supposed to increase vigor, strengthen the immune system and improve your mood. At least, that’s what fans of the sport say. Taking a dip in temperatures as low as -30°C may not be everyone’s cup of tea. But for a group of pensioners in northern China’s Heihe city, it’s a way of life. . […]

Heroes of Ice

The Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival has been pulling in crowds since the 1980s. Preparing for the event is a huge task and is carried out by China’s unsung hero: the migrant worker. . Watch on Youtube or Youku

Chillin’ in Harbin (literally)

If you think the weather’s getting cold, spare a thought for the local residents of Harbin city in northeast China. Each winter they have to endure temperatures around minus twenty degrees centigrade. But despite the freezing weather the city is a fascinating place to visit, as CRI’s Dominic Swire finds out. . Watch on YouTube […]

The Coolest Place in Beijing

During the peak of summer, the temperature in Beijing can rise to an uncomfortable 40 degrees Celsius. So what better way to escape than go skiing? Dominic Swire did just that at an indoor ski resort north of the city.