Songhua River originates from the Heavenly Lake in Changbai Mountains and makes a swift turn in the southeast part of Heilongjiang Province. Thus, Harbin gradually came into existence at 125°42'-130°10' east longitude and 44°04'-46°41' north latitude. If the map of Heilongjiang Province can be regarded as a flying swan then Harbin looks just like a pearl under its beautiful neck. There are 7 districts and 12 counties (cities) in Harbin. With a total area of 53,166 square kilometers and a population of 9.4623 million (3.2986 million in the city), Harbin is the largest and most populous city among provincial capitals as well as the center of politics, economy, science & technology, culture and transportation in the northern part of northeast China.