Which place is cheaper, Harbin or Zhengzhou?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Jump to 
Should you visit Zhengzhou or Harbin?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zhengzhou and Harbin can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Harbin?
Zhengzhou
Along the Yellow River, a city from the future and the past resides. Ancient pagodas, futuristic domes, verdant gardens - Zhengzhou is a myriad of many worlds in one urban area. The provincial capital of the Henan Province, Zhengzhou is the encapsulation of a perfect city from its delicate balance of the natural and urban spheres. It was born during the Sui Dynasty, and its actual location was in the modern-day Chenggao. Moreover, Zhengzhou works as the political, economic, technological, and educational center of the province. The city is also one of the eight great ancient capitals of China, with a collection of architecture and art originating during iconic dynasties. These relics of the old world include the Shaolin Monastery, Henan Museum, the Pagoda Forest, the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory, the Songyue Pagoda, the Emperors of Yan and Huang, and the scenic views of the Yellow River. With over nine million inhabitants, Zhengzhou continues to grow at a thriving rate. It also should be noted that in June 2012, Greater Zhengzhou was named one of the thirteen emerging megacities in China according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. Known internationally for its amazing culmination of culture and history, Zhengzhou is the ideal city for travelers and inhabitants alike.
Harbin
Harbin, China is the northernmost major city in the country, with a population of over 10 million. Harbin was founded in 1897 by Russia, which has resulted in a lot of Russian influence throughout the city and many Russian citizens. The city is most famous for their annual International Snow and Ice Festival, a two-month-long festival running from January through February of each year.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Shanghai, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in China.
-
Zhengzhou Prices
China PricesHarbin Prices
China Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayZhengzhou $65Harbin $66
The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $65, while the average daily cost in Harbin is $66. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zhengzhou and Harbin in more detail.
Accommodation
-
Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personZhengzhou $21Harbin $21
-
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomZhengzhou $42Harbin $42
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Harbin
Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Harbin? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Local Transportation
-
Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Zhengzhou $14Harbin $1.52
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:
- [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
- Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
- Zhengzhou airport or Train Staion Transfer Service: $150
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
- Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
- Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
- Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
- Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Harbin
Also for Harbin, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- 4 Hour Private Transfer to Sun Island Snow Sculptures: $100
- Harbin Airport (HRB) : Private Arrival Transfer with Meet & Greet Service: $32
- Harbin Catholic Church Car Transfer Service: $80
- Harbin Ice Festival Tickets and Transfer Service : $148
- Harbin Taiping Airport Chauffeur Service, Harbin Airport Transfer, Pick up.: $59
- Harbin Volga Manor Private Transfer Service with Entry Tickets: $300
- Private Arrival Transfer from Harbin West Railway Station to Harbin City Hotel: $65
- Private Departure Transfer to Harbin North Railway Station from Harbin City: $100
- Private Full Day Transfer Service to Harbin Top Winter Attractions: $198
- Private HRB Airport Arrival Transfer to Harbin City Hotel: $70
- Private HRB Airport Departure Transfer from Harbin City Hotel: $70
- Shared Transfer Service to Ice and Snow World, Sun Island Snow Festival: $250
Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Harbin?
Prices for flights to both Harbin and Zhengzhou change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
-
Food Meals for one dayZhengzhou $36Harbin $24
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zhengzhou
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zhengzhou.
- Zhengzhou Erqi Square and Night Markets Private Tour including Dinner: $145
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Harbin
For Harbin, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Dinner Show with Costumes and Performances: $29
- Harbin Cultural Tour at Zhongyang Dajie to Baluoke with Dinner: $80
- Central Street, Baluoke Village, and Dinner Tour: $90
- Harbin Dumpling Cooking Class: $154
- Hot Spring Experience with Hot Pot Dinner in Harbin: $300
Entertainment
-
Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Zhengzhou $5.03Harbin $53
Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou
Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $265
- All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $275
- All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $140
- All-Inclusive Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Day Tour: $251
- Beijing: Shaolin Temple Day Tour by Round Trip Bullet Train: $398
- Datong:HangingTemple&Grotto Private Car with Entrance ticket: $199
- Full-Day Private Kaifeng Highlight Tour from Zhengzhou: $248
- Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
- Kaifeng city highlights tour with delicious lunch from Zhengzhou: $120
- Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple with Kungfu Class from Zhengzhou: $287
Tours and Activities in Harbin
For Harbin, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Harbin Ice and Snow World Ticket Booking: $51
- Half Day Tour for Harbin Guandong Ancient Lane and Wood Sculpture Museum: $104
- Harbin Summer Indoor Ice and Snow World Tour: $136
- Harbin Ice Lantern Show and Center Street Tour: $150
- Private Half Day Tour Harbin ConfucianTemple and Temple of Bliss (Jile Si): $157
- 1-Day Harbin Private Tour: $168
- Harbin City Guided Tour to Zhongyang Street and Sophia Church: $180
- Private Half Day City Tour including Russian Town and Harbin Ropeway Ride: $198
- Small Group Night Tour to Harbin Ice and Snow World: $199
- Harbin City Private Day Tour in Your Way in Winter Season: $200
- Harbin Ice Festival New Year Eve Countdown Group Tour on December 31: $200
- Private Half Day Tour to Unit 731 Museum and Sites in Harbin: $218
Alcohol
-
Alcohol Drinks for one dayZhengzhou $4.04Harbin $7.96
Sample the Local Flavors in Harbin
Also in Harbin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Half-Day Private Harbin Beer Museum and Brewery Tour: $250
When comparing the travel costs between Zhengzhou and Harbin, we can see that Harbin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zhengzhou Expensive? and Is Harbin Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Harbin?
Harbin has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Zhengzhou. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou and Harbin, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
When is the best time to visit Zhengzhou or Harbin?
Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Harbin in the Summer?
The summer brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Harbin.
In the summer, Zhengzhou is a little warmer than Harbin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zhengzhou in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Harbin averages at about 24°C (75°F).
It's quite rainy in Harbin. Zhengzhou receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in July than Harbin. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Harbin receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.
-
Summer Average Temperatures JulyZhengzhou 28°C (83°F)Harbin 24°C (75°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Harbin in the Autumn?
Both Harbin and Zhengzhou are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities.
In October, Zhengzhou is generally much warmer than Harbin. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 16°C (61°F), and Harbin fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).
In October, Zhengzhou usually receives more rain than Harbin. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Harbin receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
-
Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Harbin 7°C (44°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Harbin in the Winter?
Both Harbin and Zhengzhou during the winter are popular places to visit.
Harbin can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou is much warmer than Harbin in the winter. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Harbin fluctuates around -18°C (-0°F).
Zhengzhou usually gets more rain in January than Harbin. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Harbin receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.
-
Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryZhengzhou 1°C (34°F)Harbin -18°C (-0°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Harbin in the Spring?
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zhengzhou and Harbin.
In the spring, Zhengzhou is much warmer than Harbin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zhengzhou in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Harbin averages at about 8°C (46°F).
In April, Zhengzhou usually receives more rain than Harbin. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Harbin receives 21 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.
-
Spring Average Temperatures AprilZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Harbin 8°C (46°F)
Typical Weather for Harbin and Zhengzhou
| Zhengzhou | Harbin | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 1°C (34°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) | -18°C (-0°F) | 3 mm (0.1 in) |
| Feb | 3°C (38°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) | -14°C (7°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) |
| Mar | 9°C (48°F) | 27 mm (1.1 in) | -3°C (26°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 21 mm (0.8 in) |
| May | 22°C (71°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 15°C (60°F) | 37 mm (1.5 in) |
| Jun | 27°C (80°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 21°C (70°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
| Jul | 28°C (83°F) | 137 mm (5.4 in) | 24°C (75°F) | 153 mm (6 in) |
| Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 121 mm (4.8 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (71°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) |
| Oct | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) |
| Nov | 9°C (49°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | -4°C (24°F) | 8 mm (0.3 in) |
| Dec | 3°C (38°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | -14°C (7°F) | 5 mm (0.2 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.