The paper analyzes the representation of Saint Sophia Cathedral Harbin across media, to explore the interplay between nostalgia and urban transformation, particularly in relation to the postcolonial city identity and global aspirations. Through qualitative media analysis spanning from 1905 to the present, drawing on sources from China, Russia, and Canada, the research explores visual, textual, and social media depictions alongside historical archives. It tracks how perceptions of the church have evolved in response to socio-political shifts, revealing its role in shaping Harbin's urban identity. The paper reveals that media portrayals of St. Sophia Church have influenced the city's nostalgia and collective memory, reflecting a nuanced relationship with its colonial past, where nostalgia acts not only as a sentimental attachment but also as a critical engagement with the city's colonial legacy. By focusing on this landmark, the paper contributes to understanding how nostalgia shapes postcolonial urban identity amidst globalization.