Jiaohe

Introducing Jiaohe

Jiaohe City is located in the eastern part of Jilin Province, on the western foot of Changbai Mountain. According to legend, there was a big river running through this place. A dragon once appeared in the river, so people named the river Jiaohe, and the place name also came from this.

The famous Lafashan National Forest Park covers the entire area. The red and white birch forests there are a natural and interesting combination of red and white. Walking among the red birch leaves in Jiaohe is like entering a dreamy fairy tale world.

In addition, the "Landscape Gallery" Songhua Lake, the "Jiuzhaigou of Guandong" Binghugou, the "Little Changbai Mountain" Laoyeling, Asia's No. 1 Wine Cellar, and the Ga River Rafting also attract countless tourists.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate humid climate zone is best for travel in summer and autumn.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Red Leaf Valley

Red Leaf Valley is a valley in Laoyeling, a remnant of Changbai Mountain. It is picturesque in all seasons, with beautiful mountains and lush forests. There are green fields in spring, waterfalls in summer, red leaves in autumn and snow in winter.

Every autumn, the mountains are covered with red leaves, which are like sunset clouds, a very spectacular sight. The red leaves are rich in color, and when the red leaves are forming, there are also green leaves and yellow leaves.

The best time to view the Red Leaf Valley is before mid-October each year, when the stunning scenery lasts for more than 10 days, with the sky filled with red leaves.

Tickets: 50 yuan for the main scenic area of ​​Red Leaf Valley, 100 yuan for a pass (including Red Leaf Valley, Valley in the Valley, Qingling Waterfall, and Valley Outer Valley)

Opening hours: 8:30-17:30

Recommended play time : 1~3 hours

Tel: 0431-81920112

Lafashan National Forest Park

Lafashan National Forest Park is a forest park characterized by the harmony of nature, ecology, forests, red leaves and humanities.

The lush primeval forests and clear streams complement each other, the birdsong and the fragrance of flowers, the pavilions and terraces are a delight to the eyes. Climbing up the steep cliffs, one will be amazed by the majestic mountain.

Mount Lafa is a three-sided cone, and its shape remains unchanged no matter how the viewing angle changes. Hundreds of natural caves of various types have been discovered, including a large bubble cave that is unique in China.

Ticket price: 60 yuan

Opening hours: 8:30-16:30 (weekdays), 8:30-17:00 (weekends/holidays)

Recommended play time: half a day

Tel: 0432-67229192

Lujiaogou

Lujiaogou is located in Qingling Town, Jiaohe City. The top of the gully is more than 800 meters above sea level and is about 6 kilometers long. The brook is gurgling and the scenery is beautiful. It is a classic outdoor route in Jilin City. Many hikers often come here for its reputation. Some people call it the Little Jiuzhaigou of Northeast China.

You can have fun in all four seasons: outing in spring, playing in the water in summer, admiring the red leaves in autumn, and watching the snow in winter.

Admission: Free

Opening hours: Open all day

Recommended play time : 1~3 hours

Qingling Scenic Area

The forest bathing area features waterfalls such as Nanhu and Wolongtan, forest plank roads, ancient trees, and Baoen Temple. The annual "Changbai Mountain Golden Autumn Red Leaf Festival" is held in the Red Leaf Valley, where the mountains are emerald green and the forests are colorful. The food street with more than 100 shops specializing in live fish from Qingling is known as "China's No. 1 Fish Food Street."

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Most Popular FAQs for Jiaohe

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

Jiaohe is an ancient city dating back over 2,000 years and was a major hub in the ancient Silk Road. It was once a thriving capital of the ancient Cheshi Kingdom and holds historical significance for its unique blend of architecture and culture.

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

Jiaohe is located in Jilin Province, near Jilin City. It can be accessed by taxi or public transport from Jilin City, which is about 20 km away. There is no metro service to the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the surroundings are lush.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance or online via local travel platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons (spring and national holidays) to avoid long lines. Booking a few days in advance should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the Jiaohe ruins thoroughly, allocate around 2 to 3 hours for walking through the site and visiting the museum.

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

• The ancient city walls and streets of Jiaohe.
• The Buddhist temples and religious structures.
• The panoramic viewpoints offering a wide view of the surrounding landscape.
• The Jiaohe Ancient City Museum, which showcases artifacts from the region.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some limited English-language tours may be offered. Audio guides are available in Chinese as well.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The hilltop area provides panoramic views of the ruins and surrounding landscape.
• The main city wall and gate are iconic photography spots with historical significance.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit the ancient city ruins, and explore the streets and temples. Finish with a visit to the museum to learn more about the history of the site.

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

There are no regular night visits or light shows at Jiaohe, but special cultural events may be held during national holidays or special occasions.

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

The site can become crowded during weekends and public holidays. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended for a more peaceful experience.

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

• There are rest areas and toilets throughout the site.
• Food and water can be purchased near the entrance, but it is recommended to bring your own water.
• Souvenir shops are available near the entrance selling local handicrafts.

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

The site has some areas that are accessible, but due to the ancient ruins and uneven paths, it may not be fully suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. Some areas may require walking uphill or on uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small restaurants and cafes near the entrance offering local food. For more options, you can head to Jilin City center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some vegetarian and halal food options are available in the nearby restaurants, though the selection may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses in Jilin City, which is a short drive from the site. For more luxurious accommodations, you can find options in the city center.

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

• Longtan Mountain
• Jilin City International Ski Resort
• The Songhua River Scenic Area

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the entrance offer local handicrafts such as jade carvings, ethnic clothing, and traditional teas from the region.

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

Taxis and buses are available to take you back to Jilin City, or you can use ride-hailing services for more convenience.