AOLUGUYA · The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

The city center is a bit of a distance away, but this is a Hyatt hotel with five-star hospitality and excellent amenities.

The staff were always friendly and ready to help, whether arranging a ride, offering local tips, or simply welcoming you with a smile. The food is another strong point, with tasty local and international options. Aoluguya Hotel’s decor draws on Ewenki culture, which gives the place a distinctive, memorable atmosphere. The rooms are spacious, very clean, and carefully laid out, with plush bedding and modern amenities. The snowy views are beautiful, too. It made for a luxurious, restful stay in Harbin, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting.

The hotel is across from Wanda shopping mall and the indoor ski area, about a 10-minute walk away. The ice sculpture attraction is around a 15-minute drive. Staff can help with tour advice and arrangements, and the amenities are good quality. There are even some complimentary drinks in the fridge. It’s an upscale place, with a wood-furnished design inspired by a Chinese tribe. Reception is on the 42nd floor, the second-highest floor in the tower. My main issue was the soundproofing: I could hear the phone ringing next door and water running when they used the bathroom. Still, I was satisfied overall.

Wanda Mall is about a ten-minute walk away, and other places are reasonably close. A taxi makes getting around easy, and the staff can call a car for you. They’re very helpful and ready to assist. The hotel itself looks classy and elegant.