Iron columns in Harbin wrapped in cotton cloth to prevent licking Photo: Screenshot from Star Video

Iron columns on Central Street in Harbin, Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, were wrapped in cotton cloth, in an attempt to prevent fervent tourists coming from the southern part of the country licking them, according to media reports on Tuesday.

Several tourists have reportedly had their tongues frozen after licking metal out of curiosity. For example, on December 15, 2023, a young man had his tongue frozen after licking a metal pillar, leaving him stuck there until he was rescued by police.

In addition to having their tongues frozen against iron, some tourists have had their tongues frozen by ice pops. According to media reports on January 8, 2024, a tourist from the south and her child visited the city's Central Street and tasted ice pops. Perhaps the ice pops were too delicious, the child slowly licked with tongue rather than take big bites. Unexpectedly, the child's tongue became frozen and couldn't move.

Some netizens suggested that in case of a frozen tongue, tourists should prepare a bottle of warm water in advance and slowly pour it on the frozen area of the tongue, which will melt in minutes.

Global Times