Jilin Travel Guide (Northeast China/China/East Asia/Asia)

Jilin is a stunning city in Northeast China, known for its breathtaking natural scenery, rich culture, and outdoor adventures. From the spectacular Changbai Mountain to the Songhua River, Jilin offers a plethora of attractions to explore. Whether you’re a culture vulture, an adventure enthusiast or a foodie, Jilin has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a look at the best places to visit, the hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, the local culture, and much more.

Introduction to Jilin

Located in the northeast region of China, Jilin is one of the most beautiful and scenic cities in the country. Its strategic location close to the Korean Peninsula makes it an important gateway between China and Korea. Jilin is famous for its stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and beautiful natural scenery. It is a culturally rich city with a long and fascinating history that dates back several centuries.

The climate in Jilin is temperate and semi-humid, with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is mild and pleasant.

List of Places to Visit in Jilin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jilin is rich in cultural heritage, and it has several museums and historical places that are worth exploring. The Jilin Provincial Museum displays the history and culture of the region, while the Jilin Cultural Museum showcases the life and customs of the local people. The Manchu Folk Heritage Museum displays the unique Manchu culture, and the Puppet Emperor’s Palace is a must-visit for history buffs.

Natural Attractions of Jilin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Jilin boasts an abundance of natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes. The Changbai Mountain is the most famous attraction, with its snow-capped peaks, hot springs, and waterfalls. The Heavenly Lake is another popular destination, with its crystal clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. The Songhua River is also worth visiting for its scenic beauty and water sports activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jilin

Jilin has a plethora of hiking and biking routes that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The Changbai Mountain has several hiking trails, including the Changbai Waterfall, Tianchi Lake, and Changbai Grand Canyon trails. The Songhua River has several biking trails, including the Ice and Snow Cycling Trail, the Songyuan Wetland Biking Trail, and the Jingpo Lake Biking Trail.

Best Things to Do in Jilin: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural attractions, Jilin offers plenty of activities and tours for travelers. The Ice and Snow World is a famous winter attraction, with its ice sculptures and light shows. The Jilin International Snow Sculpture Festival is also a popular event that takes place in the winter.

You can also try your hand at skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating. For those interested in culture, attending the Jilin International Folk Culture Festival is a great way to learn about the local traditions and customs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jilin

Day 1: Arrive in Jilin and explore the city’s cultural attractions. Visit the Jilin Provincial Museum, the Manchu Folk Heritage Museum, and the Puppet Emperor’s Palace.

Day 2: Hike through Changbai Mountain Park and visit the Changbai Waterfall.

Day 3: Visit Heavenly Lake and take in the stunning surroundings.

Day 4: Explore the Songhua River and try water sports activities.

Day 5: Take a biking tour and visit the Jingpo Lake.

Day 6: Attend the Jilin International Folk Culture Festival.

Day 7: Visit the Ice and Snow World and Jilin International Snow Sculpture Festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Jilin

Must-Try Dishes

Jilin offers a wide range of dishes featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. The most famous dish is the Changbai Mountain Korean-style hot pot, which is made with fish, chicken, and beef. Other dishes to try include the Jilin-style chicken soup, the Maodan (horse meatball), and the Shouyi (roasted goose).

Local Beverages

Jilin is famous for its beer, with the Harbin Beer being the most popular. Jilin also produces several types of wine, including the Changyu Wine, which is made from Chinese grape varieties.

Where to Stay in Jilin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Jilin, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Some of the best options include the Hilton Garden Inn Jilin Beihu Park, the Shangri-La Hotel, the Jilin Changchun Fortune Center, and the Jilin Province Hotel.

What to Buy in Jilin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jilin is famous for its unique handicrafts and local products. Some of the best souvenirs to bring back include the Changbai Mountain Ginseng, which is believed to have medicinal properties, the Jilin-style hand-painted pottery, and the Changbai Mountain wild mushroom.

Local Culture and Customs of Jilin

Jilin has a rich cultural heritage, and the locals are proud of their traditions and customs. They speak the Jilin dialect, which is a variation of Mandarin Chinese. The traditional clothing includes the Manchu-style dress, which is decorated with bright colors and intricate embroidery.

Best Time to Visit Jilin

The best time to visit Jilin is between May and October when the weather is mild and pleasant. The winter months are also a great time to visit, especially for the winter sports activities and the Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jilin

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Try the local food and drink.
Be respectful while visiting religious sites and historical places.

Don’t:

Do not litter or cause any damage to the natural environment.
Do not engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jilin

Jilin is a relatively safe city, and violent crimes are rare. However, travelers should take standard precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots. In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance and 120 for medical emergencies.

Health in Jilin

The tap water in Jilin is not safe to drink. It’s recommended to drink bottled water or boil tap water before drinking. Travelers should also carry insect repellent and sunscreen, as well as any necessary medications.

Getting to Jilin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jilin

Jilin has several airports such as Jilin Airport, Changchun Jingyue Tan International Airport, and Yanji Chaoyangchuan International Airport. International travelers can take connecting flights from Beijing or Shanghai to get to Jilin.

Bus Stations Near Jilin

Jilin has several bus stations, including the Jilin Bus Station and the Jilin Long-distance Bus Station. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel around the city and its surroundings.

Other Options

Trains and taxis are also available options for travelers.

How to Get Around in Jilin

The most convenient way to explore Jilin is by taxi or hired car. Buses are also available for travelers on a budget, but they can get crowded during peak hours.

Where to Go Next from Jilin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jilin is well-connected to several other destinations in Northeast China, including Changchun, Harbin, and Yanji. Some popular excursions include visiting the Changbai Mountain Natural Reserve, the Dunhua Ancient City, and the Scenic Area of Snow and Ice World in Harbin.

Conclusion

Jilin is a stunning city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. The city’s rich history, local cuisine, and fascinating customs make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an authentic Chinese experience. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Jilin and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.