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Visitors to Jilin Diaoshuihu National Forest Park can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring the forest trails. The park is also famous for its beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant seasonal foliage. Photography enthusiasts can capture the stunning views of the forest and its wildlife. During the winter, visitors can enjoy the serene winter landscapes and snow activities.
Jilin Diaoshuihu National Forest Park is located in Shanhe Town, Shuangyang District, Changchun City, Jilin Province, 92 kilometers away from the center of Changchun City.
The total area is 4,785 hectares, with a forest coverage area of 3,500 hectares. There are more than 300 tree species, with the oldest tree being over a hundred years old. There are nearly a thousand kinds of Chinese herbal medicines, more than 30 kinds of fungi, more than 40 kinds of wild vegetables, nearly 100 kinds of birds, wild deer, and more than ten kinds of rodents.
The Diaoshuihu Scenic Area is dominated by karst caves, with mountains, water, forests, peaks, caves and rocks complementing each other. It attracts a large number of tourists with its unique dangerous, strange, secluded and special magnificent scenery.
Entering the mountain gate, there is a ten-mile green corridor, shaded by two mountains. When people walk to the bottom of the valley, they can see green mountains and vines, like a boat on the blue sea.
At the end of the corridor is the highest peak in Changchun, with an altitude of 711 meters; at the foot of the peak is the Diaoshui Lake Cave.
Temperate monsoon climate, April to December
long time
Ice cave: 60 yuan for adults, 35 yuan for children;
Cave: 60 yuan for adults, 30 yuan for children;
Scenic spot pass: 110 yuan for adults and 60 yuan for children.
Weekdays 7:30-16:30, weekends and holidays 7:30-17:00
(Open from April 28th to November 30th every year)
Jilin Diaoshuihu National Forest Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. It is an important ecological reserve, home to various species of plants and animals. The park is significant for both its environmental value and its cultural importance to the local communities, who have long relied on the forest for resources.
The park is located in Changchun, Jilin Province, China. To get there, visitors can take a bus or taxi from downtown Changchun. It is approximately 50 km from the city center. There are no metro services directly to the park, so private transport or guided tours are the best options.
The park is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the foliage is at its most vibrant. Winter offers a quiet, snowy atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful visit, while summer provides lush green landscapes and cooler weather.
The entrance fee for Jilin Diaoshuihu National Forest Park is around 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tour operators or travel platforms.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but during peak tourist seasons (like autumn or holidays), it’s recommended to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long queues.
It generally takes around 3-4 hours to explore the park thoroughly. If you plan to hike longer trails or take part in more extensive activities, such as bird watching or photography, you may want to spend half a day or more.
The must-see highlights include the Diaoshuihu waterfall, the tranquil lakes surrounded by lush forests, and the variety of flora and fauna throughout the park. In autumn, the forest's changing colors offer a stunning view, making it a prime spot for photography.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, with some English-speaking guides available during peak seasons. Audio guides are not typically provided, but local guides offer insightful tours of the park.
The best viewpoints are near the waterfall and along the trails leading to the various lakes in the park. In autumn, the park’s colorful leaves make for perfect photo opportunities, especially at the lakeside areas.
A recommended itinerary includes visiting the Diaoshuihu waterfall first, followed by a walk along the lakes to explore the park’s natural beauty. For more time, explore the hiking trails through the forest for panoramic views and wildlife observation.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, during the winter, the park’s serene snow-covered landscape is ideal for evening strolls. Special photography tours can sometimes be arranged during peak seasons.
The park can be crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the autumn season when the foliage is at its peak. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the mornings or late afternoons, outside of peak tourist seasons.
The park has basic facilities including public toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are no large shops or restaurants inside, but small food stalls may be available near the entrance or at designated resting spots.
The park is relatively accessible, with paved paths near the main attractions. However, some of the hiking trails may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It is advisable to check trail conditions before visiting if mobility is a concern.
Cash is still commonly used in the park, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in most places in Changchun. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case mobile payment options are unavailable in remote areas of the park.
There are no major restaurants inside the park, but nearby in Changchun, visitors can find a variety of restaurants offering local Chinese cuisine, including dishes from the Jilin region such as dumplings and hotpot.
Vegetarian and vegan options are generally available in restaurants in Changchun. Halal food options can be found in some of the city’s Muslim restaurants, particularly in the downtown area.
There are several hotels in Changchun, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range options. For a closer stay, some guesthouses and inns near the park offer a more rustic experience.
Nearby attractions include Changchun's Nanhu Garden, the Puppet Emperor's Palace, and the Changchun World Sculpture Park. These sites can be easily combined into a day trip from the forest park.
Souvenir shops are located near the entrance of the park, where visitors can buy local handicrafts, nature-themed items, and Jilin-specific souvenirs like local snacks and textiles.
The best transportation options after visiting the park include taking a taxi or bus back to Changchun. For those wishing to explore further, taxis can also be hired to nearby attractions or transportation hubs like the Changchun Railway Station.
