Itinerary
Highlights
~ Enjoy hikes at Jingyuetan National Forest Park, Liudingshan Cultural Scenic Area, Lujiaogou Valley, Laotudingzi Mountain, 5 Maidens’ Peak National Forest Park;
~ Explore the Changbaishan North Slope to see the Changbai Waterfall; steamy Julong Hot Spring and summit for views of the stunning Heavenly Lake (Tianchi);
~ Climb the 1,442-Step Stairway to Heaven on the Changbaishan to reach the summit through the West Slope and its breathtaking vista of Heavenly Lake from a different perspective;
~ Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Yalu River Scenic Belt, observing life along the North Korean border.
~ View and visit lookouts to see China, North Korea and/or Russia simultaneously.
~ Explore the UNESCO-listed Capital Cities and Tombs of the Ancient Koguryo Kingdom on a cultural walking tour.
~ Visit the Puppet Emperor’s Palace, the former residence of China’s last emperor, Puyi, offering a sobering look into WWII history.
~ Taste local street food and savour delightful Northeastern Chinese cuisine.
Day 1 Arrive Changchun – Jilin
Meet and greet upon arrival at Changchun Longjia International Airport. Transfer to Jilin (吉林). Embark on a sightseeing excursion and visit,
Artillery Hill (炮台山) – a historically significant hill named for the ancient artillery emplacements found at its summit. It offers a peaceful escape with walking paths and serves as one of the best vantage points for a panoramic view of the entire city It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Beishan Park (北山公园) – one of the most famous and beloved parks in Jilin City. It’s not just a green space but a cultural complex featuring ancient temples, pavilions, bridges, and ponds set across several hills. It perfectly blends natural scenery with historical and religious architecture. If time permits, you may option for a climb to the main peak for a fantastic view.
Hunchun Street Night Market (珲春街夜市) – experience the vibrant local life and cuisine at this bustling night market in downtown Jilin. As the sun sets, the street comes alive with stalls offering a huge variety of Northeastern Chinese street food, from grilled skewers and stinky tofu to sweet treats and fresh fruit. The energetic atmosphere makes it a must-visit for food lovers.
Tonight’s dinner is not just any hotpot, it’s the Manchu Wula Hoptpot (乌拉火锅) is a culinary heritage with a history stretching back over centuries. Originated with the Manchu people, the ethnic group that established the Qing Dynasty. The name “乌拉” comes from the ancient city of Wula (now in Jilin Province), which was an important hub for the Manchu. Legend says it was a favourite of Emperor Qianlong. Eating it feels like royalty and tasting a piece of imperial history. It is a must-try for any food lover visiting Jilin to experience the true taste of Dongbei cuisine.
Meal: Lunch, Hotpot Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Jilin
Day 2 Jilin – Dunhua
Transfer to Dunhua (敦化).
An immersive hiking journey through Lujiaogou Valley (鹿角沟), a pristine natural area known for its lush forests and serene streams. Also known as ‘Deer Antler Valley’, the name evokes the wild and untouched beauty of the region. This approximately 2-hour hike through peaceful woodland paths, offering a perfect opportunity to connect with nature, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the wilderness.
Journey to the magnificent Liudingshan Cultural Scenic Area (六鼎山), the largest Buddhist cultural landscape in Northeast China. Ascend to the breathtaking Grand Golden Buddha Statue, which sits atop the mountain. The (3 hours) hiking-focused afternoon involves walking through sacred grounds, visiting the magnificent Zhengjue Temple (正觉寺), and climbing the steps to the base of the statue. The climb is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the entire area and a profound sense of peace.
Savour dinner with a classic and hearty Northeastern Chinese meal. Dunhua is famous for its flavourful and tender braised pork knuckle (肘子). The meat is slow-cooked until it is incredibly succulent, falling off the bone, and served with a rich, savoury sauce. This local specialty is a must-try dish that provides a delicious and authentic taste of the region’s cuisine, perfectly complementing the active day.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Dunhua
Day 3 Dunhua – Hunchun – Yanji
Today’s journey brings you to the unique frontier where China, Russia, and North Korea meet, setting the stage for a day of international vistas and cultural intrigue.
Take the high-speed rail to Hunchun (珲春).
The Fangchuan Scenic Area (防川风景区) is an unique attraction in Hunchun. The scenic area is located at the easternmost tip of China, a sliver of land bordered by Russia and North Korea. The main highlight is visiting the ‘One Glance Views Three Countries’ Lookout Point (一眼望三国). From here, see the borders of China, North Korea (to the south), and Russia (to the east and north) at the same time. Also see the confluence of the Tumen and Russia’s Razdolnaya rivers. It’s a fascinating geopolitical spot with powerful symbolic meaning.
Enroute, make a stop to view the Tumen River Border Port (图们口岸) from a distance. This is a major crossing point on the border between China and North Korea. Weather permitting, you may be able to see the bridge that connects the two countries, observe the guarded checkpoints, and get a tangible sense of life on this sensitive international border. It offers a unique and sobering perspective on division and diplomacy.
No trip to Yanji (延吉) is complete without a fun photo stop at its ‘Internet Famous’ billboard wall (网红墙拍照打卡). This large sign, written in both Chinese and Korean, says “Hunchun Welcomes You” and has become an iconic symbol of the city’s status as an international hub. It’s the perfect place to take a memorable group photo to prove you’ve visited this unique corner of China.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Yanji
Day 4 Yanji – Changbaishan
Start your day like a local at the vibrant and bustling Yanji Aquatic Market (延吉水上市场). Despite its name, it’s not just a fish market. It’s a sprawling traditional Korean-style market offering an incredible array of fresh produce, local snacks, street food, and unique specialties. It’s a feast for the senses and the perfect place to try authentic Yanbian Korean Chinese snack, such as hotteok (sweet pancakes) or kimchi.
Step into a living museum that showcases the rich culture and traditions of the Korean ethnic minority in China. Make a brief stop at Yanji Korean Folk Village (延吉民俗园), featuring beautifully reconstructed traditional Korean houses (called Hanok), courtyards, and workshops. Visitors can often see cultural performances and learn about the history and customs of the local community.
Visit the trendy Yunding Market (云顶集市), a modern ‘Internet Famous’ hotspot known for its stylish design and artistic atmosphere. It often features colourful signage, unique architectural elements, and trendy shops perfect for capturing those iconic travel photos. It’s a great place to grab a specialty coffee or a creative local snack before continuing.
Journey to the Changbaishan (长白山) area, relax and rejuvenate in one of the region’s famous natural volcanic hot springs. The mineral-rich waters are famously hot and are believed to have therapeutic properties. Soaking in an outdoor spring surrounded by the cool mountain air is a magical experience.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Changbaishan North Route Base
Day 5 Changbaishan
Our outdoor begins at the North Slope (北坡), the most popular and developed access point to Changbaishan (长白山). This area offers the most diverse collection of attractions. Our visit will consist of a combination of shuttle bus rides (to cover large distances) and hiking to explore the majestic volcanic landscape up close. We’ll maximise the natural landscapes on foot where possible.
Valley of the Forest (地下森林) – a fantastic prelude, this is a 3-KM round-trip boardwalk trail that descends into a crater-shaped gorge. Lush, ancient coniferous trees grow from the valley floor, creating a unique “underground” ecosystem. It’s a relatively flat but immersive walk through a pristine temperate forest, perfect for warming up.
Continue hiking towards the magnificent Changbaishan Waterfall (长白山瀑布), the source of the Songhua River. The path involves a scenic and moderately challenging uphill walk along the steam-filled river valley. The waterfall itself is a spectacular 68-M cascade, often shrouded in mist from the hot springs below. The hike to its viewpoint is rewarding and gets you close to the mountain’s powerful geothermal activity.
Julong Hot Springs (聚龙温泉) – located at the foot of the waterfall, this is a breathtaking field of fumaroles and steaming hot springs that vents directly onto the rocky surface. Walk right past these geothermal vents, seeing the vibrant mineral stains (yellows, reds, greens) on the rocks and smelling the sulfur in the air. If time permits, don’t miss the chance to try a boiled egg cooked naturally in the hot springs – a classic Changbaishan experience.
After your hike, take the eco-friendly shuttle bus to the transfer station. From there, board another bus for a steep and dramatic ascent up the mountain’s switchback roads to the crater rim. The ride itself offers stunning, ever-expanding views.
The crown jewel of Changbaishan at the crater rim, is a stunning, deep-blue crater lake – famously known as the Heavenly Lake (天池). Nestled between the dramatic, jagged peaks of the mountain, it is one of the highest volcanic lakes in the world, its beauty is legendary. As the weather at the summit is extremely unpredictable. Fog and snow can appear suddenly, so visibility is not guaranteed. Seeing its serene beauty is considered a lucky and unforgettable experience.
Luyuan Pond (绿渊潭) – take the shuttle bus to this picturesque spot. It’s a short, easy walk on a paved path to a stunning emerald-green pond fed by a delicate waterfall. The vibrant colour of the water, caused by mineral deposits and the reflection of the surrounding lush rocks, makes it an incredibly serene and photogenic stop.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Changbaishan West Route Base
Day 6 Changbaishan – Baishan
Explore Changbaishan West Slope (长白山西坡) today. The west slope offers a more rugged and less crowded experience compared to the North Slope. The journey involves a shuttle bus ride through diverse landscapes of virgin forests and alpine meadows. The main attraction here is the physically engaging hike to the summit to see Heavenly Lake, providing a true sense of accomplishment!
The 1,442-Step Stairway to Heaven (天池1442天梯) – this is the defining challenge and highlight of the West Slope hike. To reach the crater rim and Heavenly Lake, ascend a steep wooden staircase consisting of 1,442 steps. The climb is strenuous but manageable on well maintained path, with designated rest platforms offering increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The staircase is engineered to minimise environmental impact while providing safe access to the summit. Conquering the “Stairway to Heaven” is a badge of honour for visitors to Changbaishan.
After descending, rest and relax onboard the coach for a scenic 2-hour drive to the city of Baishan. This transfer takes you deeper into the beautiful, forested mountains of Jilin province.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: inn, Baishan
Day 7 Baishan – Ji’an
Begin the day with a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the Manchu people, the ethnic group that founded China’s last imperial dynasty, the Qing. The Manchu Folk Museum (满族博物馆) showcases a fascinating collection of traditional clothing, artifacts, tools, and exhibits that detail the customs, shamanic traditions, and daily life of the Manchu community in Northeast China. It provides essential context for the region’s heritage.
Embark on a rewarding 2-hour hike around Laotudingzi Mountain (老秃顶子山). True to its name, the summit is a distinctive “bald” alpine meadow, devoid of trees, offering unobstructed 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding rolling forests and mountain ranges. The hike takes you through beautiful changing vegetation zones, and the vast, grassy summit makes for spectacular photography and a true sense of being on top of the world. It’s a perfect blend of moderate physical challenge and immense scenic payoff.
Conclude the day with a leisurely visit to the banks of the iconic Yalu River, which forms the natural border between China and North Korea. The Yalu River Scenic Area (鸭绿江景观) offers a peaceful yet fascinating perspective. Stroll along the riverbank, see Chinese and North Korean villages facing each other across the narrow river, and observe the marked contrast between the two sides. It’s a unique geopolitical spot set against a beautiful natural backdrop.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Ji’an
Day 8 Ji’an
Begin the day with an immersive 3-hour hike through the stunning Five Maidens’ Peak National Forest Park (五女峰). This area is renowned for its dramatic karst formations, dense virgin forests, and clear streams. The park is named after five distinct peaks that, according to local legend, resemble five graceful maidens. The well-maintained trails will lead you past unique rock shapes, through quiet woods, and to scenic lookouts, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and light adventure.
Step back in time to explore one of Northeast China’s most significant historical treasures – The Ancient Koguryo Kingdom Historical Site (高句丽文化古迹旅游景区). It was a powerful Korean kingdom that existed from 37 BCE to 668 CE in what is now Northeast China and the northern Korean Peninsula. It was a significant East Asian power and one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. The kingdom eventually fell to a Silla–Tang alliance.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses the archaeological remains of the ancient Koguryo kingdom’s capital cities, fortifications, and elaborate tombs. A 3-hour cultural and historical walking tour highlights the Hwando Mountain City fortress ruins, the General’s Tomb (Taiwang Ling) – a massive pyramid-like stone burial structure, and tombs featuring beautiful early murals. It’s a fascinating journey into the military prowess, architecture, and art of a powerful ancient civilization.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Ji’an
Day 9 Ji’an – Changchun
Enjoy a relaxing drive back to Changchun.
Explore Changchun’s prized natural escape. Jingyuetan National Forest Park (净月潭景区) is famously known as the ‘Green Lung of the City’. This vast park features a man-made reservoir surrounded by a sprawling, meticulously planted forest. The 3-hour hike will take us along peaceful lakeside trails and through serene pine woods. It’s a haven for birdwatching, photography, and enjoying fresh air.
Conclude the day with a visit to one of Changchun’s modern cultural and leisure hubs. This ‘Culture & Tourism Town’ (这有山文旅小镇) is a developed indoor area featuring traditional architecture, boutique shops, local craft stores, and a variety of dining options. It’s the perfect place to find souvenirs, enjoy a leisurely meal, and experience a blend of contemporary urban life with cultural elements. It offers a relaxed atmosphere to unwind after your hike.
Explore the city’s vibrant nightlife, enjoy a famous Northeastern Chinese barbecue dinner, and reflect on the diverse experiences of our journey through Jilin province.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Highlight Dinner
Stay: 4* hotel, Changchun
Day 10 Depart Changchun
This morning, visit The Puppet Emperor’s Palace (伪满皇宫). This palace served as the official residence and government headquarters of Puyi, the last Emperor of China, during his reign as the puppet ruler of the Japanese-controlled state of Manchukuo (1932-1945). The complex is a unique blend of Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. Walking through its halls and gardens offers a profoundly sobering look into a fascinating chapter of history, revealing the luxury Puyi lived in juxtaposed with his lack of political power. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in modern Chinese history and World War II.
Thereafter the rest of time is free at leisure until it’s time for the group transfer to Changchun Longjia International Airport and the tour concludes.
Meal: Breakfast.