Country | Russian Federation |
Population | 577441 |
Area | 400 km2 (200 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+10 (MSK+7 [14]) |
Coordinates | 48.48271, 135.08379 |
Highest elevation | 72 m (236 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Khabarovsk, the largest city and administrative center of Khabarovsk Krai in Russia, is a significant urban hub located just 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the China-Russia border. The city lies at the confluence of the Amur and Ussuri Rivers, about 800 kilometers (500 miles) north of Vladivostok. According to the 2021 Russian census, Khabarovsk boasts a population of 617,441, making it the largest city in the Russian Far East, surpassing Vladivostok in 2015.
Khabarovsk’s history dates back to its founding in 1858 as a military outpost. Initially named Khabarovka, the city was renamed in 1893. It served as the administrative center of the Far Eastern Federal District from 2002 until December 2018, when Vladivostok took over this role. Despite this change, Khabarovsk remains an essential city in the region due to its size and strategic location.
Geographically, Khabarovsk experiences an extreme climate typical of the Russian Far East interior. The city endures strong seasonal temperature swings, resulting in cold winters with temperatures often plunging below freezing and relatively hot, humid summers. This climate impacts the daily lives of residents and the city’s infrastructure, requiring robust systems to handle the temperature extremes.
Khabarovsk’s culture is a rich blend of Russian and indigenous influences. The city’s architectural landscape includes a mix of traditional Russian structures and modern buildings, reflecting its historical evolution and contemporary growth. Cultural institutions such as theaters, museums, and galleries are prominent, with the Khabarovsk Regional Museum and the Khabarovsk Regional Theater being notable landmarks.
The city is a key educational center in the Russian Far East, hosting several universities and research institutions. These institutions contribute significantly to the city’s human resources, producing skilled professionals who support various sectors of the local economy. The Far Eastern State University of Humanities and the Pacific National University are among the leading educational establishments in Khabarovsk.
Economically, Khabarovsk is a vital industrial and commercial hub. The city’s economy is diversified, encompassing industries such as machinery, metallurgy, food processing, and petrochemicals. The Amur Shipbuilding Plant is one of the prominent industrial enterprises in the city. Additionally, Khabarovsk’s strategic position near the border with China enhances its role in international trade, with significant cross-border commerce contributing to its economic landscape.
Khabarovsk is also an important transportation hub. The city is well-connected by rail, road, and air, facilitating efficient movement of goods and people. The Trans-Siberian Railway, which passes through Khabarovsk, is a crucial link connecting the city to other parts of Russia and beyond. The Khabarovsk Novy Airport serves as the main gateway for air travel, offering domestic and international flights.
Tourism plays a growing role in Khabarovsk’s economy. The city’s scenic location along the Amur River, coupled with its cultural and historical attractions, draws visitors from across Russia and other countries. Popular tourist spots include the Muravyov-Amursky Park, the scenic River Amur embankment, and the iconic Transfiguration Cathedral.
In summary, Khabarovsk is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history, dynamic economy, and strategic geographical location. Its cultural heritage, educational institutions, and robust industrial base make it a key player in the Russian Far East, contributing significantly to the region’s development and connectivity.
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