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Tonghua City is located in the southern part of Jilin Province, with geographical coordinates between 125°10' ~126°44' east longitude and 40°52' ~43°3' north latitude. It borders Baishan City to the east, Benxi, Fushun, Dandong and other cities in Liaoning Province to the west, and faces the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s Jagang Province across the Yalu River to the south. It is connected to Liaoyuan City and Jilin City in the north. Tonghua City has jurisdiction over two districts, Dongchang District and Erdaojiang District, three counties, Tonghua County, Liuhe County and Huinan County, and administers two county-level cities, Ji'an City and Meihekou City. Tonghua is the central city in the southeastern part of Jilin Province and an important regional center city in the eastern part of Northeast China. It enjoys the reputation of "China Pharmaceutical City", "China Wine City" and "China Steel City".
Tonghua is known for its rich history, particularly as a center of trade and commerce in the region. It’s also renowned for its role in the liquor industry, particularly for the production of Baijiu. The city is located near the Changbai Mountains, an important cultural and geographical landmark, known for its natural beauty and role in local folklore.
Tonghua is located in Jilin Province in northeast China. To get there, you can take a train or flight to Tonghua Railway Station or Tonghua Airport, which connects well with major cities like Changchun or Beijing. Once in the city, local taxis, buses, or walking are convenient for getting around.
The city itself is open for visitors at all times. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, from April to October, when the weather is pleasant. Winter months can be cold, but the Changbai Mountain area is particularly scenic with snowfall.
The entrance fee for Tonghua itself is free, but certain attractions such as the Changbai Mountain and Hot Springs have entrance fees. Ticket prices can vary depending on the season and attraction, but typically range from 50 to 150 CNY. Tickets can be purchased online or at the attraction's entrance.
For most attractions, tickets can be bought on-site. However, for popular sites like the Changbai Mountain, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring, summer, and holidays). Booking a few days in advance is usually sufficient.
To fully explore Tonghua, including visiting nearby scenic spots, 2 to 3 days should be sufficient. This will allow you to visit the historical sites, natural landmarks, and enjoy local experiences like wine tasting.
Guided tours are available for most of the main attractions in Tonghua, especially for Changbai Mountain and the hot springs. These tours are typically available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be arranged upon request, though availability may be limited.
Start with a visit to the Changbai Mountain, then head to the hot springs for relaxation. In the afternoon, explore the local markets, and finish with a visit to one of the Baijiu distilleries. If you have more time, explore the countryside and enjoy local food specialties.
Night visits are not common in Tonghua itself, but some attractions, like the hot springs, may offer evening relaxation. Light shows and special tours are generally not available, except during festivals or special events.
Tonghua is not overly crowded year-round, but it can get busy during the summer months and national holidays. The best times to visit for a quieter experience are in the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).
Facilities such as public toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at most tourist attractions. There are shops selling local products, including Baijiu and other traditional goods. However, for more extensive facilities, it’s recommended to visit the main city areas.
Many of the main attractions in Tonghua, such as the hot springs and city markets, are accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. However, parts of the Changbai Mountain may require physical effort, so check accessibility options before visiting.
Cash is still commonly used in Tonghua, especially in smaller shops and markets. However, larger establishments accept cards and mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay. It’s recommended to carry some cash, especially for rural areas.
Local restaurants offer Jilin specialties such as wild mushrooms, deer meat, and hearty stews. There are also cafes in the city center offering coffee and light meals, catering to both local and international tastes.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, although vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s advisable to check the menu or inform the restaurant in advance if you have specific dietary requirements.
Souvenir shops offer Baijiu, local wine, traditional Tibetan and Jilin handicrafts, including woven goods and pottery. You can also buy specialty teas and local snacks.
After visiting Tonghua, you can continue your trip by taking a bus or train to nearby cities like Changchun or Beijing. Taxis and private cars are also available for more flexibility in travel.
