Dunhua

Introducing Dunhua

Dunhua City is located in the eastern mountainous area of ​​Jilin Province, in the hinterland of Changbai Mountain. It connects four districts and nine counties and cities in Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces, and is an important transportation hub in Jilin Province.

Dunhua City is rich in natural resources and is known as the natural three-dimensional treasure house of Changbai Mountain. Its forest resources are well-known throughout the country and it is one of the key forest areas in the country.

Dunhua has a long history, beautiful mountains and rivers, and unique natural landscape. It is known as the "Thousand-year-old Capital and Century-old County". There are hundreds of tourist attractions in the area, including the Qing Ancestor Temple, Aodong Ancient City Ruins, Laobai Mountain Scenic Area, Yanming Lake Wetland, etc. Among them, the world's largest Buddhist nunnery, Zhengjue Temple, is located in the Dunhua Liuding Mountain Tourist Area, and the world's tallest sitting Sakyamuni Buddha, Dunhua Jinding Buddha, is located here.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental monsoon climate, best for travel in summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Dunhua Liudingshan Cultural Tourism Area

Located on the south bank of Mudanjiang River, 3 kilometers south of Dunhua City, the scenic area integrates Bohai culture, Buddhist culture and Qing ancestor culture.

Planned and designed by the China Tourism Design Institute, it focuses on developing cultural tourism projects such as Buddhist culture, Qing Dynasty ancestor culture, and Bohai culture. It is a national 5A-level scenic spot and a provincial tourism development zone.

Admission: Free

Opening hours: 7:30-16:30

Recommended play time: more than 3 hours

Tel: 0433-6688330

Yanming Lake Wetland

Yanming Lake Wetland is located in the northeastern part of Jilin Province, in the lower reaches of Mudanjiang River, and at the junction of Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces. It is a natural reservoir on land and a resource of many wild animals and plants. It is the breeding, migration and wintering ground for many rare waterfowl.

It is known as the "Cradle of Life", "Kidney of the Earth" and "Paradise for Birds".

Admission: Free

Opening hours: All day

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tel: 0433-6201111

Zhengjue Temple

Originally located at the eastern gate of the ancient city of Aodong, at the foot of Changbai Mountain, Dunhua Zhengjue Temple covers two hectares. This ancient temple in Northeast China was first built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. Under the leadership of Venerable Foxing, Zhengjue Temple is now renowned as the largest nunnery in Asia.

Admission: Free

Opening hours: All day

Tel: 0433-2710621

Bohai Plaza

Dunhua is known as the "City of Squares," and Bohai Square is its largest and most modern square. Located on Hanzhang South Street, it embodies the ancient city of Aodong and its rich cultural heritage, reflecting its history and profound changes.

Admission: Free

Opening hours: All day

Best time: There will be a large musical fountain in the summer evening

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Most Popular FAQs for Dunhua

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

Dunhua is a city with rich history and cultural significance, located in Jilin Province. It was an important hub during the Qing Dynasty, and its proximity to the Changbai Mountain range has contributed to its scenic and cultural heritage. It is known for its preservation of traditional Manchu architecture and its role in regional trade and culture.

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

Dunhua is located in the southeastern part of Jilin Province, China. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from the nearby cities, such as Yanji or Changchun. There is no metro service in the area, so taxis and buses are the best options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Dunhua does not have specific opening hours, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. Winter also offers the chance to experience the snow-covered landscapes, especially near Changbai Mountain.

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

Most attractions in Dunhua, such as the temples and historical sites, have low entry fees or are free. Tickets for Changbai Mountain and certain tourist sites can be purchased online or offline. Prices vary depending on the season and the specific attraction.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended for popular attractions like Changbai Mountain, especially during peak seasons. A few days in advance is typically enough.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1 to 2 days to explore Dunhua fully, including its historical sites and nearby natural attractions. If you plan to visit Changbai Mountain, allocate an extra day for hiking and sightseeing.

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

The must-see highlights in Dunhua include the historical temples, the traditional Manchu-style buildings, and the nearby Changbai Mountain, known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may offer English translations during peak seasons. Audio guides may also be available at major attractions such as Changbai Mountain.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints in Dunhua include the scenic spots around Changbai Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forested valleys and mountain peaks. The ancient temples also provide excellent photography opportunities with their traditional architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the historical sites in the city center, including temples and traditional buildings. Then, take a trip to Changbai Mountain for hiking or sightseeing, where you can experience nature and view the famous Heavenly Lake.

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

Night visits and light shows are not commonly available in Dunhua. However, special photography tours may be offered for visitors interested in capturing the area’s natural beauty during different lighting conditions.

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

Dunhua is not usually overcrowded, but it can get busy during the summer months and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays and outside of major Chinese holidays.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and water are available at most tourist sites. There are local shops selling snacks and souvenirs in the area. For more extensive dining options, head to the city center.

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

The historical sites in Dunhua are generally accessible to elderly visitors and children. However, the hiking areas in Changbai Mountain may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards may be accepted at some locations, but it is safer to use mobile payments or cash in more remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants in Dunhua offering traditional Chinese dishes, such as noodles and dumplings. For more variety, you can head to nearby cities like Yanji, where international options are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is widely available, including vegetable stir-fries and tofu dishes. Halal food options are limited in Dunhua but can be found in larger cities like Yanji, which has a significant Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Dunhua, including guesthouses and small hotels. For more luxury options, you can stay in the nearby city of Yanji, which offers a wider range of accommodations.

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

Other nearby attractions include the Changbai Mountain range, which is famous for its beautiful landscapes and hiking trails. You can also visit the town of Yanji, known for its Korean influence and cultural landmarks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Dunhua sell local handicrafts, such as traditional Chinese clothing, carved wooden items, and regional snacks. Local tea and herbal products are also popular souvenirs.

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

After visiting Dunhua, the best transportation options include taking a bus or taxi to nearby cities like Yanji. Yanji has a bus station and a train station, providing connections to other parts of Jilin Province and beyond.