Harbin Ice and Snow Festival opens

Ice sculpting masters from around the world have their eyes set on the city of Harbin in Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, where the city is holding its annual Ice and Snow Festival.

Ice sculpting masters from around the world have their eyes set on the city of Harbin in Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, where the city is holding  its annual Ice and Snow Festival.

Now in its 24th year, the three-day event has attracted over fifty sculptors from China and other countries, including Russia, the US, and Denmark.

All are creating their own works of art in the world of ice. Some artists say they have developed strong emotional bonds with the city of Harbin, with many having participated in the annual festival several times.