Hunchun

Introducing Hunchun

Hunchun City is located in the lower reaches of the Tumen River in eastern Jilin Province, at the junction of China, North Korea and Russia. Hunchun is the closest point for China to reach the east coast of South Korea, the west coast of Japan and even North America and Northern Europe by sea. It is also the city closest to the seaport in Jilin Province.

The Korean village of Fangchuan in Hunchun City is located at the tri-border junction of my country, North Korea, and Russia. Hunchun boasts numerous tourist attractions and historical and cultural sites, including Wanghai Pavilion, the Fangchuan Sentry Post, known as the "First Outpost of the East," Tuzipai, Zhanggufeng, Sand Dune Park, Lotus Lake, Fangchuan Village, and the Jingxin Wild Rose, making it a popular destination for vacations.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate, best for travel in summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Hunchun European Street

Hunchun borders Russia, attracting large numbers of Russian tourists daily. The street has been positioned as a unique Russian-style street, integrating tourism, leisure, dining, shopping, entertainment, health care, and fitness. The street is 330 meters long and 8.2 meters wide, with 17 European-style buildings on both sides.

Admission: Free

Opening hours: Open all day

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Fangchuan Scenic Area

Located at the mouth of the Tumen River, the border between China and North Korea and Russia, Fangchuan is known as the "First Village of the East." Here, you can experience the sounds of "cockcrows heard across three kingdoms, dogs barking startled across three frontiers, flowers blooming and fragrance spreading across the borders, and laughter echoing across three states," and savor the exotic charm of this European and Asian fusion.

Also known as "Fangchuan Island," Fangchuan Island boasts the "Sea Viewing Pavilion," from which one can gaze out over the Three Kingdoms. A yacht cruise along the river offers a glimpse into the exotic scenery of the "Tumangang City" of North Korea across the river, allowing one to truly experience the beauty of the saying, "Flowers bloom and fragrance spreads across the three frontiers, and laughter spreads across the three states."

Tickets: 70/person

Opening hours: 8:00-18:00

Tel: 0433-7535586

Shuaiwanzi Broken Bridge

The Shuaiwanzi Broken Bridge, named after Shuaiwanzi Village in Ying'an Town, was built in 1938. During the Japanese retreat from Northeast China in 1945, the Soviet Red Army blew up a hole in the middle of the bridge to cut off their retreat. In August 1945, after the Japanese surrender and the Soviet Red Army's entry, the bridge's iron beams were completely removed. Now, only a row of piers remain standing in the Tumen River, a testament to its history.

Admission: Free

Opening hours: Open all day

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Dragon and Tiger Stone Carvings

The Dragon and Tiger Stone Carvings are located in Longyuan Park in Hunchun City. Tickets to Longyuan Park are 1 yuan.

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Most Popular FAQs for Hunchun

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

Hunchun, located in Jilin Province, is significant due to its proximity to the borders of China, Russia, and North Korea. It has a rich history as a trading hub and has cultural influences from all three neighboring countries. The area is also known for its diverse natural landscapes, including forests, mountains, and rivers.

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

Hunchun is located in the eastern part of Jilin Province, close to the Russian and North Korean borders. It can be reached by taxi, private car, or bus from nearby cities like Yanji. There is no metro service in Hunchun, but buses are available for local transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Hunchun is a year-round destination, with the best times to visit being during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. Winter is popular for snow-related activities, while summer is great for exploring nature reserves and hiking.

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

The entrance fee for attractions like the Hunchun Nature Reserve varies. Most scenic spots and hiking trails are free, but for specific activities (e.g., skiing), there are fees. Tickets can be bought on-site, and some activities may be booked online during peak seasons.

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

It is recommended to book tickets for specific activities such as skiing or guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons like winter or summer. Booking 1-2 days in advance is generally sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Hunchun, plan for 1-2 days. If you're interested in hiking or exploring the nature reserves, you may want to allocate more time. For winter sports, a full day is recommended.

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

Must-see highlights include the Hunchun Nature Reserve, where you can experience local wildlife and nature, the scenic mountain areas, and the cultural fusion at local markets. The border region also offers unique opportunities for cross-border exploration.

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

Guided tours are available for the Hunchun Nature Reserve and other popular attractions. Guides are generally available in Mandarin, though English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance for international tourists.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints in Hunchun are in the Hunchun Nature Reserve, which offers stunning views of forests, mountains, and rivers. The mountains surrounding the city also provide excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the Hunchun Nature Reserve for a hike, then head to the local markets to experience the cultural mix of China, Russia, and North Korea. If visiting in winter, a trip to nearby ski resorts is recommended in the afternoon or evening.

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

There are no major light shows in Hunchun, but you can enjoy evening strolls in the town or along the river. Some resorts may offer evening skiing or night-time snow activities in winter.

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

Hunchun can get crowded during Chinese public holidays, especially in winter and summer. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays in the off-season, particularly in the spring and autumn months.

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

Hunchun has basic facilities such as toilets, food vendors, and rest areas near popular attractions. Shops are available in the town for general necessities and local goods. Some larger resorts offer more amenities, including restaurants and hotels.

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

Most of Hunchun is accessible for elderly and children, with paved pathways in the town center and easy access to scenic areas. However, some remote hiking trails or mountainous regions may be more challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in Hunchun. Credit cards are accepted in most larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants in Hunchun offering local cuisine, including Chinese, Russian, and Korean dishes. Some resorts and guesthouses also have on-site cafes and dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of Hunchun's restaurants, particularly those catering to tourists. Halal food options can be found in restaurants offering Korean and Russian cuisine.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hunchun offers a range of accommodations, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and mid-range options. There are also luxury resorts, particularly near ski resorts or scenic areas.

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

Nearby attractions include the Changbai Mountain Scenic Area, the Tumen River Border, and the Hunchun International Border. These sites can be easily combined into a day trip, especially if you're interested in cross-border experiences.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Hunchun offer local handicrafts, Russian and Korean-inspired goods, and items related to the border regions. Popular souvenirs include local textiles, ginseng products, and folk art.

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

To continue your trip, you can take a taxi, bus, or private car to nearby cities like Yanji or Changchun. For cross-border travel, there are also international transport options available for travelers heading to Russia or North Korea.