马迭尔冰棍Modern Popsicle: Harbin’s Century-Old Ice Romance! A Sweet Legend on Central Street
If you visit Harbin in winter, there’s a magical experience you can’t miss—enjoying a Modern Popsicle (Mǎ Dié Ěr Bīng Gùn) at minus 20°C! This is no ordinary ice pop, but a century-old taste legend. On the snowy Central Street, everyone holding a popsicle has become a unique winter scene. The colder it gets, the more irresistible this sweet icy treat becomes. It’s not only Harbin’s culinary icon but also a delicious witness of East-meets-West culture.
1. Origin and History
The Modern Popsicle was created in 1906 in Harbin by Joseph Kaspu, a Jewish businessman from Russia, who founded the Modern Hotel. At the time, Harbin was a major hub of the Chinese Eastern Railway and home to many foreign residents. This fusion of European craftsmanship and local flavor was born, and the popsicle has kept its original recipe and methods for over a century, making it a living food heritage.
2. Cultural Significance
In Harbin, the Modern Popsicle is a true symbol of “city memory.” Whether it’s minus 30°C in winter or scorching summer heat, lining up for a popsicle is a way of life for locals. It reflects Harbin’s unique “Eastern Moscow” charm and carries sweet memories for generations. People even say: “If you haven’t eaten a popsicle in front of the Modern Hotel, you haven’t really been to Harbin!”
3. Ingredient Highlights
The recipe insists on fresh milk, eggs, and quality sugar—with no preservatives or stabilizers. The secret lies in the classic formula, a golden ratio unchanged for more than 100 years, making the popsicle rich and creamy yet never too sweet. Wrapped simply in wax paper, it keeps its most authentic look.
4. Traditional Making Process
Following time-honored methods, every popsicle is made with care: ingredients are carefully measured and then slowly frozen for a smoother texture. The most unique step is the “old soup method”, where part of the original liquid is kept and reused as a starter—just like aged broth—ensuring the flavor stays consistent across generations.
5. Flavor and Texture
One bite reveals a dense, velvety texture—not hard and brittle like regular popsicles. The creamy milk flavor melts smoothly in your mouth, balanced in sweetness and refreshingly light on the finish. Even at minus 20°C, it never turns rock-hard but remains pleasantly soft.
6. How to Enjoy
The most authentic way is to eat it while standing on Central Street! Breathing out white frost while savoring the creamy popsicle creates a thrilling hot-and-cold contrast. Locals also enjoy one after hotpot—it cools you down and refreshes your taste buds.
7. Tasting Tips
For the best experience, head to the Modern Cold Drinks Shop at No. 89 Central Street, Harbin. The price is affordable—only 5 RMB per stick. Just say “one original flavor” or “one vanilla flavor.” But if you want the most authentic taste, go for the classic original milk flavor.
8. Tourist Tips
Its English names are “Modern Ice Cream” or “Mǎ Dié Ěr Bīng Gùn.” With a rich dairy taste, it’s perfect for ice cream lovers. Reminder: when eating outdoors in winter, be careful not to stick your tongue to the popsicle; take small bites to avoid freezing your lips.
Homemade Tutorial
Want to try making it at home? Mix 200ml fresh milk, 50g cream, 20g sugar, and 1 egg yolk. Heat gently until thickened, then freeze. Stir every hour for 3–4 times to get a smooth, creamy texture!
Whether you’re strolling along Central Street or snapping photos in front of St. Sophia Cathedral, don’t miss the century-old flavor of the Modern Popsicle. It’s more than just a frozen treat—it’s a sweet witness to Harbin’s history. Add it to your must-eat list in China, and let this icy delight become one of your most unforgettable travel memories!
