A local from Detroit on why China's Harbin feels like home
Jan 16, 2024
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Ben Watson, an American in China, shares his experiences as a foreign-local in Harbin. He talks about the Ice Festival, local cuisine, and the similarities between Harbin and Detroit. The discussion also touches on the differences in dressing styles, winter delicacies, climate, and missing American food chains in China.
The Harbin Ice Festival has become a significant economic boost for the city, attracting tourists from around the world and benefiting the local economy.
Harbin offers a unique and vibrant winter experience with its festive atmosphere, ice sculptures, and various winter activities, making it a symbol of the city's identity.
Living in Harbin for over two decades, the speaker feels a strong connection to the city due to its unique history, friendly people, breathtaking winter landscapes, and sense of community.
Deep dives
Main ideas/key points/insights 1
The Ice Festival in Harbin has grown more professional and attracts tourists from all over the world. The festival showcases elaborate ice and snow sculptures made by international artists using chainsaws and hand tools. Harbin's climate and the city's expertise in winter-related activities make it an ideal location for the festival. The event has been a significant economic boost for Harbin, benefiting the local economy and increasing tourism.
Main ideas/key points/insights 2
Harbin offers a unique and vibrant winter experience. The city is known for its festive atmosphere, with ice sculptures decorating the streets and various winter activities like ice skating and sledding. Local Harbiners have their own traditions and ways of surviving the cold, such as dressing in layers and adapting to the extreme temperatures. The Ice Festival has become a symbol of Harbin's identity, and the city takes pride in hosting the largest ice festival in the world.
Main ideas/key points/insights 3
Living in Harbin for over two decades, the speaker feels a strong connection to the city and considers it home. The city's unique history, friendly people, and breathtaking winter landscapes make it a special place. The speaker highlights the sense of community and the warm hospitality of the local Harbiners. Despite occasional challenges, such as being away from family and cultural differences, the speaker appreciates the opportunities and fulfillment that come with living in Harbin.
Main ideas/key points/insights 4
Teaching in a Chinese university has been a rewarding experience for the speaker. The students, particularly the doctoral and master's students, are hardworking, respectful, and eager to learn. The speaker enjoys creating a positive intercultural communication environment in the classroom, providing students with tools to understand different cultures and perspectives. Being an American professor in China allows the speaker to be a bridge between the two cultures and promote mutual understanding.
Main ideas/key points/insights 5
In addition to the Ice Festival, Harbin offers other attractions for visitors. The Siberian Tiger Park allows visitors to get close to tigers and feed them, providing a unique wildlife experience. The Baroque street area in the Dao Li district is a popular spot for antique markets and offers a glimpse into the city's history and architecture. Central Street and St. Sophia are iconic landmarks that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. Overall, Harbin provides a vibrant and diverse experience for tourists.
American in China, Ben Watson, discusses being a foreign-local in the coldest major city in China. He's been in this country for more than 20 years. He tells tales of the Ice Festival, local cuisines, and finding his home in Harbin. He also explains how Harbin and Detroit share a lot in common.