I am in Harbin now, I arrived today (January 1, 2009). Tonight on the bus ride into the city, I saw one ice building on what looked to be a vacant city lot. It is lit up and the lights are on for the displays also. From what I have been told, the crowds are not big yet as the festival opened early, and the big crowds is during the Spring Festival holiday. Prices are reasonable, outside the festival grounds, buses and taxis are everywhere and easy to get your way around. Temperature today was a balmy -10, tonight - 18 and the Siberian wind was quite strong. I have a local friend here and that seems to make quite a difference as she knows her city well. Inexpensive hotels are available at the 2nd stop of the Airport bus and also close to the train station. Airport bus to town is 20 RMB. Do not worry about staying in the heart of the city, as it is easy to navigate. Tips: 1. Dress for winter weather! 2. Be careful walking on the sidewalks, (ice covered and slippery, I did not read about that in any other posts). There is not much snow on the ground / streets but it is definitely winter. Come, enjoy and the festival of snow and ice will run well into the end of February. I came here and will spend 9 nights. Search on your favorite search engine for 2009 information and take a look at the pictures from this year's sculptures. Some sites have them posted already. Disney is also taking part this year and there are some wonders on display. I hope I did not write a book but feel that there was something to address many of the posts I did read.