Vibrant every day life

The city of Khabarovsk while agreed upon by most people to be the most picturesque city in the Russian Far East, is much underrated as a center of history, culture, art, fashion, music and theatre. Most people spend a day and visit the most likely landmarks, such as the Natural History Museum and walk the broad Amursky Boulevard with its many vibrant shops and visit perhaps the interesting local market.

What is emerging in Khabarovsk, is what always was meant to be, an international trading center bringing a variety of cultures together. A city with a vibrant historic past which still can be observed in its older buildings. To experience Khabarovsk in its fullest measure, one must go beyond what is evident.

For example, if you get up early in the morning, you can watch a most incredible sunrise over the Amur River from your room at the Intourist Hotel. Have breakfast at the Restaurant Parus, the former site of high-level international meetings and an architectural wonder itself. Walk out towards the main square and go down to the mighty Amur River, specifically on weekends this is the place to see Russian life in action.

During summer time, there is always music in the little bandstand, whole families including children dressed up in their finest, enjoy lively musical tunes spanning from jazz to folk, enthusiastically performed by local musicians. Watch the children play on the numerous playgrounds, watched by proud parents. Walk alongside the hordes of people, armed with garden implements and prepared for working in the rich soil of their dachas that are lined up along the river. Board a small pleasure boat and go along for the ride while it drops off entire families at various stops along the river and brings them back carrying large bouquets of colorful dacha grown flowers.

Than walk along the Amursky Boulevard and rest in some of the outdoor cafes, have a Russian ice cream; much sweeter and creamier than the ones we are used to. Visit some of the art galleries that are lined up alongside the street featuring local artists who are usually available to discuss their work. Enjoy the variety and quality of native art sold in stores offering local made souvenirs.

In the evening, you might enjoy a performance at the Children's theatre where children dressed in colorful, intricately designed costumes recite poetry and dance with total abundance that takes your breath away. Or you might visit the House of Culture, where you can enjoy the incredible handmade costumes that are used by the local folklore ensembles.

And while visiting the Regional Museum, pay attention to the third floor where through postcards, letters and books, the rich history of Khabarovsk is laid out before you. You do not have to speak Russian to observe the postage stamps which are from all over the world, people who visited Khabarovsk at some point in time and whose fond remembrances will always be part of its history.

Close the evening off with a meals in some of the new restaurants, such as Modern, where small tables are closely put together to present an intimate ambiance and food is served by pleasant waitresses who take the time to put you at ease and acquaint you with the menu. Come late and enjoy the excellent music performed again by young and old local artists.

This is only a vignette of what present Khabarovsk is all about.
Information about the Khabarovski Krai can be found under Regions.

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