Changchun Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Changchun with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, food and drink scene, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Changchun

Changchun is a vibrant city located in Jilin, Northeast China. It is a city that combines modernity and traditional culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Changchun boasts of a rich history, natural wonders, and a sophisticated food and drink scene that will leave you craving for more.

List of Places to Visit in Changchun

Changchun has plenty of attractions that cater to history buffs, adventure seekers, and foodies alike. Here are some must-visit places in Changchun:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Puppet Emperor’s Palace - This palace was the last official residence of Emperor Puyi, the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty.
  • Changchun World Sculpture Park - A vast sculpture park with over 400 sculptures from different countries.
  • Jingyue Pool Scenic Area - A popular tourist destination known for its crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and lush greenery.
  • Siberian Tiger Park - A large park where you can get up close and personal with Siberian tigers.
  • The Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo - A museum showcasing the history of the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo.

Natural Attractions of Changchun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Changbaishan Nature Reserve - A UNESCO World Heritage site home to the Changbai Mountains, one of China’s most impressive mountain ranges.
  • South Lake - A scenic lake surrounded by hills and forests that provides a peaceful atmosphere for those who want to relax.
  • Nanshan Scenic Area - A picturesque mountain range that offers breathtaking views of the city.
  • Beidahu Ski Resort - A ski resort that offers a range of winter sports and activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
  • Jingyuetan National Forest Park - One of Changchun’s most popular parks, known for its vibrant colors during the autumn season.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Changchun

Changchun has many hiking and biking routes that offer stunning scenery, fresh air, and a chance to get close to nature. Here are some of the most popular trails:

  • Beishan National Forest Park Hiking Trail - A picturesque trail that starts at the Beishan National Forest Park and takes you through scenic forests and valleys.
  • Sijie Mountain Hiking Trail - A challenging hike that takes you to the top of Sijie Mountain, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
  • Chaoyang Mountain Mountain Biking Trail - A scenic route that takes you through the Chaoyang Mountain mountain range, with stunning views and thrilling descents.

Best Things to Do in Changchun: Activities and Tours

Aside from sightseeing, Changchun has plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained throughout your stay. Here are some of the best things to do in Changchun:

  • Ice and Snow World - A winter wonderland that features massive ice sculptures, considered the largest in the world.
  • Changchun Movie Wonderland - A theme park that features popular movie sets, movie-related attractions, and experiences.
  • Folk Street - A popular street lined with shops, restaurants, and teahouses where you can experience traditional Chinese culture.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - A unique and thrilling way to see Changchun from above.
  • Night Markets - A great way to explore Changchun’s night scene and try out some local delicacies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Changchun

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for a fulfilling Changchun experience:

Days Activities
Day 1 Arrival and Check-in
Day 2 Puppet Emperor’s Palace, Changchun World Sculpture Park
Day 3 Changbaishan Nature Reserve
Day 4 South Lake, Nanshan Scenic Area
Day 5 Beidahu Ski Resort, Jingyuetan National Forest Park
Day 6 Jingyue Pool Scenic Area, Siberian Tiger Park
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Changchun

Changchun is a food lover’s paradise, offering a range of local and international cuisine that will leave you wanting more. Here are the top dishes and beverages to try in Changchun:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ji Lin Cuisine - The cuisine of Jilin is known for its hearty soups, spicy dishes, and dumplings.
  • Stewed Pork and Vermicelli - A popular noodle dish in Changchun, served in a savory broth with stewed pork.
  • Sauteed Lamb with Cumin - A spicy and flavorful dish made with tender lamb and cumin.
  • Spicy Fried Chicken - A popular snack food in Changchun, consisting of crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Changbaishan Ice Beer - A crisp and refreshing beer made with water from the Changbaishan Mountains.
  • Soy Milk - A popular drink in Changchun made from crushed soybeans and served hot or cold.

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

Changchun has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Shangri-La Hotel Changchun - A luxury hotel with elegant rooms, excellent dining options, and a heated indoor pool.
  • Jinjiang Inn - Changchun Convention and Exhibition Center - A budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Dong Fang Hotel - A mid-range hotel located in the heart of the city that offers spacious rooms and excellent service.
  • Kompass Hotels Changchun Gaoxin - A boutique hotel that offers cozy rooms, stylish decor, and a central location.

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

Changchun is known for its handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products that make for great gifts and mementos. Here are some of the top items to bring home:

  • Jilin Ginseng - A prized medicinal herb grown in Jilin, known for its health benefits.
  • Jilin Chagan Lake Milk - A popular brand of milk from Chagan Lake, known for its high quality and taste.
  • Changbaishan Wild Forest Honey - A pure and natural honey produced in the Changbaishan Nature Reserve.
  • Jilin Roast Duck - A local delicacy that is rich in flavor and succulent.

Local Culture and Customs of Changchun

Changchun has a unique culture and customs that are worth experiencing. Here are some key aspects of local culture and customs in Changchun:

  • Dongbei Culture - Refers to the culture of Northeast China, characterized by hearty food, strong spirits, and a deep sense of community.
  • Ice and Snow Festivals - Changchun hosts several ice and snow festivals during the winter season, featuring ice sculptures, skiing, and other winter activities.
  • Harvest Festival - A festival celebrated during the autumn season, where locals gather to give thanks for the harvest and enjoy traditional food and activities.

Best Time to Visit Changchun

The best time to visit Changchun is during the autumn season (September to November) and winter season (December to February). In autumn, the weather is pleasant, and the fall foliage provides stunning views. In winter, Changchun transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow sculptures and ice festivals that are a must-see.

Do’s and Don’ts of Changchun

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Changchun:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including Jilin-style dishes and snacks.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and remember to bring layers during the colder months.
  • Explore Changchun’s outdoor attractions, such as the natural reserves and scenic areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas or indoor spaces.
  • Take pictures or touch endangered animals at the Siberian Tiger Park.
  • Skip out on the ice and snow festivals during the winter season.
  • Bargain too aggressively when shopping in local markets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Changchun

Changchun is a relatively safe city, with a low crime rate. However, it is always best to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Changchun

Tap water in Changchun is safe for drinking, but it is always best to drink bottled water to avoid any potential health risks. It is also advisable to bring any necessary medications and get travel insurance before your trip.

Getting to Changchun: Transportation Options and Logistics

Changchun is well-connected to other major cities in China, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Changchun

  • Changchun Longjia International Airport - The main airport that serves Changchun and surrounding areas, with direct flights to major cities in China and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Changchun

  • Changchun West Bus Station - One of Changchun’s main bus stations, with buses that connect to other cities in Jilin and other parts of China.

Other Options

  • Train - Changchun Railway Station is one of the country’s major railway stations, with trains that connect to other major cities in China.
  • Car Rental - Car rental services are available at the airport and train station.

How to Get Around in Changchun

Changchun has a well-established public transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and the metro. The metro system is the most convenient way to get around the city, with three lines that cover most of the major attractions.

Where to Go Next from Changchun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Changchun is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in Northeast China. Here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Harbin - Known as the “Ice City,” Harbin is famous for its annual ice festival and stunning ice sculptures.
  • Jilin City - A scenic city located on the banks of the Songhua River, known for its natural hot springs and ancient temples.
  • Shenyang - The capital city of Liaoning province, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites.

Conclusion

Changchun is a vibrant and exciting city filled with natural wonders, history, and culture waiting to be explored. With this comprehensive Changchun travel guide, we hope that you can plan your trip and experience all that this city has to offer.

Looking toward Culture Square Looking toward Culture Square Changchun Subway Changchun Subway Changchun light rail Changchun light rail The Puppet Manchukuo government's State Department The Puppet Manchukuo government's State Department Mao Statue at Former Site Museum Of Changchun Film Studio 长影旧址博物馆 Mao Statue at Former Site Museum Of Changchun Film Studio 长影旧址博物馆 China FAW Group Corporation 中国第一汽车集团公司 main building China FAW Group Corporation 中国第一汽车集团公司 main building