Siping

Introducing Siping

Siping, also known as Siping Street, is a prefecture-level city in Jilin Province. It is located at the junction of Liaoning, Jilin and Inner Mongolia provinces, and in the central hinterland of the Songliao Plain.

It is a strategic military base in Northeast China, a major transportation and logistics hub in the region, and is known as the "Southern Gate" of Jilin Province. It is one of the three major granaries of Northeast China and a National Sanitary City. It is also a "Hero City," having been honored as the "Madrid of the East" by Chinese and foreign historians for its participation in the "Four Battles of Siping" during the War of Liberation.

Siping is a multi-ethnic area, with 36 ethnic groups as of 2011, of which Han people account for about 91.6% of the population. It is one of the birthplaces of the Manchu people.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate, best for travel in summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yehenala Ancient City

It is the birthplace of Huang Taiji's mother, Empress Xiaocigao (Menggu Gege), and the ancestral home of Cixi, and is also known as the "Hometown of the Empress."

The original site of the ancient city was destroyed during Nurhaci's last attack on the Yehe Kingdom in 1619, and it cannot be rebuilt. The real site is ten kilometers away and has been cultivated. Only earthen mounds remain in the area, which is a provincial cultural heritage site.

The Yehenala City we are visiting now was built in 1994. In 1998, a TV series "Princess Yehenala" was filmed using the exterior scenes, so it was also named the Film and Television City.

Tickets: 20/person; Pass 41/person

Opening hours: 8:00-18:00

Recommended play time:

Tel: 0434-3560666

Monument to the People's Heroes

Siping's landmark building is located in the city center and can be seen when passing by.

Jilin Normal University

Located in Siping City, Jilin Province, it is a key university in Jilin Province, an institution selected for the Ministry of Education's Excellent Teacher Training Program, and a training center for key high school teachers, a university teacher training center, and a teacher education research center in Jilin Province.

Yitong Manchu Museum

The Yitong Manchu Museum is a comprehensive museum that integrates collection, exhibition, research, public education, and cultural exchange; its main exhibition content is Manchu history and folk cultural relics.

The museum houses a collection of 630 types of cultural relics, totaling nearly 5,000 pieces. Using photos, charts, models and other forms of expression, it presents the long history, splendid culture and unique folk customs of the Manchu people in a relatively comprehensive, systematic and detailed manner.

Tickets: 10/person

Opening hours: 8:00-17:00

Recommended play time: 2 hours

Tel: (0434)4237727

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Most Popular FAQs for Siping

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

Siping is a city in Jilin Province with a rich history, particularly significant during the Second Sino-Japanese War as it was a crucial battlefield. The city is also known for its agricultural products, particularly corn, and its role in Chinese military history.

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

Siping is located in the central part of Jilin Province, China. It is accessible by bus or train from major cities like Changchun. Taxis are available for local travel within the city, but public transportation is also common.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

As a city, Siping does not have specific opening hours. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant, avoiding the summer heat and winter cold.

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

There are no entrance fees for general visits to Siping. However, some museums and cultural sites may charge a small fee for entry. Tickets for such attractions can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.

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

Booking in advance is not required for general visits to the city. For specific attractions or guided tours, it’s recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Siping thoroughly can take 1 to 2 days. This allows you to visit historical sites, parks, and enjoy the local culture. If you are interested in military history or agriculture, you may want to add an extra day.

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

Key highlights in Siping include the Siping Memorial Hall, local parks like Shimao Park, and the Siping Military Museum. The city's historical significance is reflected in these landmarks.

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

Guided tours are available for most historical sites and museums. These tours are typically in Mandarin, but some may offer English-language guides, especially in tourist areas.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include Shimao Park, where you can capture the city's natural beauty, and the historical landmarks like the Siping Memorial Hall, which offers great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary starts with a visit to the Siping Memorial Hall, followed by a stroll through Shimao Park for natural scenery. End your day by visiting the Siping Military Museum to learn about the city’s role in the war.

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

There are no major night visits or light shows in Siping. However, the city’s parks and historical sites can be explored in the evening, offering a peaceful atmosphere for a night walk.

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

Siping is not overly crowded compared to other Chinese cities. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays in the spring or autumn, especially outside of Chinese public holidays.

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

Siping has public toilets in most parks and tourist areas. There are plenty of local food options, including traditional hotpot. Water stations, rest areas, and shops can be found near major attractions like the Siping Memorial Hall.

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

Most major attractions in Siping, including parks and museums, are accessible to elderly visitors, children, and disabled individuals. Some areas may have uneven terrain, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in Siping, especially in shops and restaurants. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments but may not be available at smaller shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants in Siping serve traditional Chinese cuisine, including hotpot and dumplings. For a wider range of food options, you can visit nearby cities like Changchun, which offers more international dining choices.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most local restaurants. Halal food may be more limited, but there are halal restaurants in the nearby city of Changchun due to its Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range and budget hotels in Siping. For more luxurious options, you can stay in nearby cities like Changchun, which offers a broader selection of accommodations.

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

Nearby attractions include the Changchun Film Studio and the Jilin Province Museum in Changchun. These landmarks are easy to visit in a day trip from Siping.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Siping offer traditional Chinese handicrafts, local agricultural products like corn, and items related to the city’s military history. Tea and local snacks are also popular souvenirs.

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

After visiting Siping, you can take a train or bus to Changchun or other cities in Jilin Province. Taxis and buses are also available for local travel.