Antu

Introducing Antu

Antu County is located in the eastern part of Jilin Province and the southwest of Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture. It is the hometown of mineral water in China and the "Changbai Mountain Large Natural Mineral Water Base" in Jilin Province.

Antu County is dotted with natural landscapes such as Changbai Mountain Tianchi, waterfalls, hot springs, Beauty Pine Garden, underground forest, Yaowang Valley, and wind-eroded pumice forest, making it a great place for photography tourism; cultural landscapes include Changbai Mountain Temple, ancient pagodas, ancient cities, and the birthplace of the founder of the Qing Dynasty.

Antu has extremely rich forest resources. Most of the original forests of Changbai Mountain are concentrated in Antu. The air quality is good and it is a natural oxygen bar.

Climate and best time to travel

The best time to visit is from July to September in the temperate zone.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Changbai Mountain Tianchi

Located at the top of the volcanic cone in Changbai Mountain Scenic Area, it is the source of the Songhua River, Tumen River and Yalu River, and is also the deepest lake in my country.

Tianchi Lake can be reached from the north slope, west slope and south slope. Currently, the north slope and west slope are the most popular destinations for group tourists.

The volcanic eruption formed an elliptical crater lake with a lake area of ​​10 square kilometers. It is the largest crater lake in my country. At an altitude of 2,150 meters, it is the highest crater lake in the world.

The best time to visit Tianchi is in midsummer, when there are fewer clouds and fog, making it easier to see the true face of Tianchi.

Tianchi is also the boundary lake between China and North Korea. There is a boundary marker between China and North Korea on the top of the west slope mountain. Standing by the lake, you can overlook the other half of the mountain in North Korea.

Tickets: Regular ticket: RMB 120 (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Opening hours: 08:30-15:00 (Monday to Sunday, October 1st - April 30th of the following year)

07:30-15:00 (Monday-Sunday, May 1st-September 30th)

Recommended play time: 1~3 hours

Tel: 04395410000

North slope of Changbai Mountain

The area north of Changbai Mountain Tianchi is called the North Slope Scenic Area. There are more scenic spots here than on the West Slope and South Slope, but there are also more tourists.

Here you can enjoy classic geological wonders such as the Changbai Mountain Waterfall, Julong Hot Spring, and the forest at the bottom of the valley; take a reverse bus to experience the rapid curves; and overlook the beautiful scenery of Tianchi Lake from the steep main peak.

The hot spring square here sells hot spring eggs with a unique taste, which you can try; you can also wash your hands in the hot spring pool next to it and feel the volcanic hot springs.

Tickets: Regular ticket: 125 RMB; Eco-friendly car: 85 RMB (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Opening hours: 06:30-16:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)

Recommended play time: 6 hours

Tel: 400-8483-777; 0433-5410000

Changbai Mountain Demon World Scenic Area

The Changbai Mountain Demon World Scenic Area is located in Erdaobaihe Town, Antu County. The scenic area is located in the Changbai Mountain coniferous and broad-leaved mixed forest belt. The water system of the Demon World is the hot spring water flowing down from the Tianchi Lake in Changbai Mountain. It does not freeze all year round.

When the temperature reaches minus 20 degrees Celsius, fog rises, rime and tree hangings appear, the mist is lingering, and the heaven and man are one. The beautiful scenery is like a fairyland, as if you have returned to the ancient world of primitive society. Photographers call this place the "devil's world."

Ticket price: 98/person

Opening hours: 5:30-16:30

Recommended play time: 1~3 hours

1~2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Antu

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Antu is a scenic area located near the Changbai Mountain, a famous natural reserve with rich biodiversity. The region holds cultural significance for the local Korean ethnic minority, and the area is known for its ancient volcanic landscapes and the Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), a crater lake formed thousands of years ago.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Antu is located in the eastern part of Jilin Province, close to the border with North Korea. The town can be accessed by bus or taxi from the city of Yanji or through the Changbai Mountain scenic area. There is no metro system in the region, so taxis and buses are the most common modes of transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The best time to visit Antu is during the summer and early autumn months (June to October), when the weather is favorable for outdoor activities. The major attractions, such as the Tianchi Lake, are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Changbai Mountain Reserve, including Tianchi Lake, typically ranges from ¥150 to ¥200, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It’s advisable to book tickets in advance during the peak tourist seasons (summer and national holidays). Booking 1-2 days in advance is generally sufficient, especially for guided tours or tickets to specific attractions like Tianchi Lake.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the major attractions of Antu, including the Changbai Mountain and Tianchi Lake, a full day is recommended. If you want to explore the surrounding nature and engage in activities like hiking, an additional day could be ideal.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights in Antu include the Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), which sits atop the Changbai Mountain, the volcanic landscape of the mountain, and the various hiking trails that offer stunning views. The Changbai Mountain Reserve is also a popular spot for bird watching and nature walks.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer translations in English during the peak tourist season. Audio guides are typically available in Chinese, and they can be rented at the entrance of the main attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography are at Tianchi Lake, especially during the early morning when the mist rises over the water. The summit of Changbai Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is another prime location for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by hiking to the summit of Changbai Mountain for breathtaking views, then head down to Tianchi Lake for a closer look at the crater lake. If time permits, explore the nearby nature trails or visit local ethnic villages to learn more about the Korean heritage in the region.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows at Changbai Mountain, but during certain festivals, cultural performances may be organized. Special tours are available during peak seasons, including photography and nature walks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Antu is busiest during the summer months (June to August) and around major Chinese holidays. The least crowded times are typically early spring (March to May) and late autumn (October to November), when the weather is still pleasant but fewer tourists visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and water stations are available around major attractions like Tianchi Lake. There are also several small shops selling souvenirs and local snacks. Rest areas are scattered along the hiking routes for visitors to relax.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Changbai Mountain has some accessible paths, but the terrain can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Some areas, such as Tianchi Lake, can be accessed by cable car, making it more suitable for visitors with mobility limitations. However, it’s best to check in advance for specific accessibility information.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still accepted in some areas, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the region. Credit cards are less commonly accepted, especially in more remote spots.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants near the entrance to the Changbai Mountain Reserve, serving traditional Chinese food. The area is known for its hearty hotpots and dishes made with local ingredients like mushrooms and mountain herbs.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many local restaurants, with dishes like stir-fried vegetables, tofu, and rice. Halal food may be available in areas with larger Muslim populations, though it’s less common in the rural areas around Antu.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Antu, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For more options, staying in Yanji, the nearest city, offers a wider selection of accommodations.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, famous for its Korean heritage and culture. You can also visit the Changbai Mountain Nature Reserve for more scenic spots and hiking trails.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Antu sell items like local handicrafts, Korean-inspired products, tea, and traditional mountain herbs. Local snacks and herbal remedies are also popular items to purchase.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Antu, you can take a bus or taxi to Yanji for further travel options. Yanji is well-connected to other cities in Jilin Province and has a train station and an airport for continued travel.