Live Your Best Lives
Pumice Forest, whose full name is Canyon Pumice Forest, is located 6 kilometers from the Yantuhe Line, the northern gate of Changbai Mountain in Antu County, Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province. It is nestled in a large rift valley formed by volcanic eruptions and crustal movements. It is a must-visit place for visiting Shuangmu Peak, the Sino-North Korean boundary marker, the garden, and Kim Il-sung Diaolutai.
The Canyon Pumice Forest originates on the west side of Tiyun Peak in Changbai Mountain. Its name has evolved several times throughout history. Originally known as "Jinggang Mountain" because it was formed by a volcanic eruption, it was later called "Volcano Canyon" and "Canyon Sand Forest." Because it is mostly composed of pumice, people still call it the Canyon Pumice Forest.
The scenery here is renowned for its beauty, uniqueness, danger, and seclusion. It boasts a vibrant tapestry of peaks, waterfalls, grotesque rocks, hidden rivers, springs, verdant trees, exotic flowers, and unique plants, embodying pristine beauty, ecological beauty, and natural beauty. The valley is dotted with grotesque rocks, offering breathtaking sights. The elegant peaks, the inscriptionless stele, the Fahai meditation stone, and the Tang Monk Sutra-raising Peak imbue the valley with a celestial aura. Within the valley lie springs, within springs flow water. The pools are small yet elegant, the waters are not deep yet clear, and the streams are short yet gurgling. The mountains are even more remarkable because of the water, and the waters are even more beautiful because of the mountains. The majestic mountains, the winding waters, the lush grasses, the vibrant flowers, the winding paths, and the winding bridges create a breathtaking natural landscape.
The best time to travel is from September to November every year.
In autumn, the weather in Pumice Forest is cooler and the air fresher. The leaves in the valley begin to change color, creating a vibrant display of colors, making it an ideal spot for hiking and enjoying the autumn scenery. September to November is also the local harvest season, offering a variety of fresh fruits and local delicacies.
【Recommended attractions】
→ Ladder River
The river has steep walls, a fast-flowing current, and clear, sweet water. Take a stroll along the river, admire its magnificent scenery, and feel the power of nature.
→Auspicious Tree
This is a red pine tree that is several hundred years old. You can tie a red string around it for your friends and family to pray for their safety.
→Shanshentai
It enshrines the Lord of Changbai Mountain, "Chaohe Zhanwang", and allows you to understand the culture and beliefs of Shamanism.
【Recommended Play Time】
1-3 hours
The ticket price for the Pumice Forest is 90 yuan per person
Opening hours: 05:30-18:30
Pumice Forest is a unique geological feature formed by volcanic eruptions, where pumice stones and rocks have accumulated over thousands of years. The area is significant for its distinct landscape shaped by volcanic activity, attracting geologists and nature enthusiasts.
Pumice Forest is located in Jilin Province, China. The best way to get there is by taking a taxi or private car from the city center of Jilin or Changchun. Public transport options may be limited, so private transportation is recommended.
The forest is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.
The entrance fee for Pumice Forest is typically around 40-60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites.
It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons like public holidays. Booking a few days in advance is ideal for avoiding long queues.
It typically takes around 2-3 hours to explore the Pumice Forest, including time for hiking, photography, and visiting the visitor center. Longer visits may be needed if you wish to hike in the surrounding nature reserve.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in both Chinese and English, but it's best to check availability in advance.
Start your visit with a walk through the forest's main trails, taking time to observe and photograph the pumice formations. Then, head to the visitor center for more information about the area’s history. Finish with a hike along one of the scenic nature trails.
Currently, Pumice Forest is a daytime attraction and does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours may be available during specific seasons or festivals, but these are limited.
The Pumice Forest can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays and off-peak seasons such as late autumn and winter.
The forest has basic facilities including toilets, water fountains, and rest areas. Food options are limited, but there are small shops where visitors can purchase snacks and beverages.
The main trails and visitor center are accessible for elderly and children. However, some of the hiking paths may be difficult for visitors with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and rough paths.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash may still be required in some smaller shops within the forest.
There are limited dining options inside Pumice Forest. However, there are several restaurants and cafes in the nearby Jilin city that offer local and Chinese cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available in some nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be more limited in the forest area. It’s better to check in Jilin city for a wider variety of dietary options.
There are souvenir shops selling items related to the pumice and volcanic rock formations, including small sculptures, jewelry, and local handicrafts.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or bus. If you plan to explore nearby cities or attractions like Changbai Mountain, renting a car or taking a tour bus might be more convenient.
