Core Viewpoint - The implementation of the 240-hour visa-free transit policy in Harbin has significantly boosted tourism, particularly from Russian travelers, enhancing the city's cultural and economic landscape during the winter season [4][5][6]. Group 1: Policy Implementation - The 240-hour visa-free transit policy allows foreign travelers to stay in Harbin for up to 10 days, facilitating a deeper cultural experience during the Chinese New Year [4]. - Harbin Airport has established dedicated channels for issuing temporary entry permits and policy consultation, streamlining the application process to reduce average clearance time to under 30 seconds [4]. Group 2: Tourist Experience - Travelers are receiving personalized assistance, including multilingual support and tailored itineraries highlighting popular attractions and local cuisine, enhancing their overall experience [4][5]. - The number of Russian travelers arriving in Harbin has surged, with a 107% year-on-year increase in total arrivals and a 59.3% rise in visa-free entrants, many of whom extend their stay by 5 to 7 days [5]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The influx of tourists has provided a significant boost to local tourism, with over 90,000 foreign visitors recorded at the Ice and Snow World in just 40 days, making it a key destination for cross-border travelers [5]. - The policy has transformed short transit stops into opportunities for in-depth cultural experiences, injecting vitality into Harbin's tourism sector [5][6].