Vladivostok is a port city, the administrative, cultural and economic centre of the Primorye Territory and the Far Eastern Federal District. Additionally, the city is the largest scientific and educational centre of the Far Eastern Region. The city is home to the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) and the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
More than 600 thousand people live in the city (as of 2018).
Vladivostok is located on the Muravyov-Amursky peninsula surrounded by the Sea of Japan. The Eastern Bosphorus connects Amur Bay and Ussuri Bay.
Warm and humid summer and abundant sunshine in the fall and winter, the proximity of the sea and mountain ranges create a unique environment. July through October is the best time for outdoor activities. August is the warmest month with a temperature of +20.8C. The average summer temperature is +18°С and winter -13°С. The water temperature in August-early September is +22°С – 24°С.
In June 1860, after the signing of the Treaty of Aigun between Russia and China, the Russian military post named Vladivostok was set up in the Golden Horn Bay of the Sea of Japan.
In May 1880, Vladivostok with a population of 7.3 thousand people received the status of a city, which included the Muravyov-Amursky peninsula and Russky Island.
In 1899, the Eastern Institute opened in Vladivostok.
By the early 20th century, a small town had become the most significant Russian port and naval base in the Far East.
In the Soviet period, Vladivostok became the cultural, scientific and industrial centre of the Far East. Machinery manufacturing, shipbuilding and repair, production of construction materials and fishing equipment, food, consumer goods manufacturing and woodworking industries flourished here. The Far Eastern branch of the Academy of Sciences, the Far Eastern State and Technical Universities, three theatres, two museums and an art gallery appeared in the city.
Vladivostok reconciles the features of the past with the modern life. The 19th-century architecture of the city centre resonates with the latest designs. Different architectural styles represent both Western and Eastern cultures. Four theatres and more than 30 museums are open for city residents and visitors.
In September 2012, the heads of state and representatives of more than 20 countries of Asia-Pacific region met during the APEC Business Summit, which took place at FEFU on the Russky Island.
Vladivostok is the end point of the Trans-Siberian Railway, the fourth in terms of cargo turnover, and the first free seaport of the Far East.
