Ji'an

Introducing Ji'an

Ji'an boasts a mild climate, humid air, abundant rainfall, and low winds, earning it the reputation of "Jilin's Little Jiangnan." Ji'an is a World Cultural Heritage Site, a renowned Chinese historical and cultural city, an excellent Chinese tourist destination, and a national ecological demonstration zone.

Ji'an is an ancient city with a rich history. As early as the Paleolithic and Neolithic Ages, people have lived and multiplied here.

Ji'an is a beautiful border town and a "land of fish and rice". The rice produced here was tribute rice in the Qing Dynasty, specially supplied to the emperor and the royal family.

Climate and best time to travel

The northern temperate continental climate is best for travel in summer and autumn.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Wunvfeng National Forest Park

The Laoling Mountains are located in southeastern Jilin Province, on the banks of the Yalu River and at the southern foot of the Changbai Mountains. Specializing in ecotourism, the area boasts breathtaking views of its peaks, warm winters and cool summers, and vibrant red maple leaves, creating a natural wonderland.

It showcases the unique local flora and fauna and magnificent natural landscapes. With a total area of ​​6,867 hectares and a forest coverage rate of over 95%, it is a national forest park.

The park boasts rich forest resources, with towering trees and dense forests nestled among high mountains. Precious pine, linden, catalpa, and birch trees shimmer with lush greenery. Not only is it a haven for wild animals and birds, it's also home to the three treasures of Kanto: ginseng, deer antler, and mink fur.

Ticket price: 50/person

Opening hours: 7:30-17:00

Recommended play time: more than 3 hours

Tel: 0435-6688881

Goguryeo Royal City (Donggou Ancient Tombs)

The Goguryeo Royal City (Donggou Ancient Tombs) scenic area is characterized by the interdependence of the plain city and the mountain city as the capital. The Goguryeo ruins in Ji'an City are the remains of the Goguryeo Dynasty.

On the plains surrounding Ji'an City, there are more than 10,000 ancient tombs from the Goguryeo era, which are the world-famous "Donggou Ancient Tombs".

Ticket price: 30/person

Opening hours: 8:00-17:00

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tel: 0435-6262796

General's Tomb

Located at the foot of Longshan Mountain, about 4 kilometers northeast of Ji'an City, Jilin Province, it is known as the "Oriental Pyramid" because its shape resembles the tomb of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. It is estimated to be the tomb of King Jangsu, the 20th king of the Goguryeo Dynasty in the late 4th and early 5th centuries AD.

There is a passage leading to the tomb chamber on the fifth step. The stone slab covering the coffin weighs more than 50 tons, and the three tomb-guarding stones on each side weigh more than 10 tons each. It is magnificent.

Ticket price: 30/person

Opening hours: 10:00-18:30

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Ji'an Museum

Located at the intersection of Jianshe Street and Yunshui Road in Ji'an City, it is the only thematic museum in my country and even in the world that focuses on displaying the history and culture of Goguryeo. The overall shape is an eight-petal lotus, reflecting the traditional Chinese feng shui concept and the characteristics of Goguryeo's love of lotus and stone.

Ticket price: 30/person

Opening hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm daily in summer

Every day from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in winter

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

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Most Popular FAQs for Ji'an

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

Ji'an is an ancient city with historical importance dating back to the Sui and Tang Dynasties. It served as a major political and military hub during ancient times and is known for its well-preserved historical sites and cultural heritage.

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

Ji'an is located in the Tonghua region of Jilin province, China. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from Tonghua city. There is no metro system in the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Ji'an is accessible year-round. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and outdoor activities like boating and sightseeing are most enjoyable.

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

There is no general entrance fee for visiting the city, but certain attractions such as temples or historical sites may have an entry fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local tour agencies.

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

Booking in advance is not required for general visits, but for tours or specific attractions, it’s recommended to book a day or two in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need approximately 4-6 hours to fully explore Ji'an, including visits to key attractions like the Ancient City Ruins and local temples.

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

• The Ji'an Ancient City Ruins, showcasing remnants of ancient walls and structures.
• Yanming Lake, perfect for boating and picnics by the water.
• Ji'an Temple, a peaceful site for reflection and cultural exploration.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides if requested in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Yanming Lake offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• The Ji'an Ancient City Ruins provide a unique backdrop for photos of ancient architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Ji'an Ancient City Ruins, then head to Yanming Lake for relaxation, followed by a visit to Ji'an Temple for a tranquil experience. End the day by exploring local markets for souvenirs.

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

There are no light shows or special night tours, but the city’s historical sites are open for evening walks and the serene atmosphere is perfect for a quiet evening visit.

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

Ji'an is not typically crowded. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times to visit, especially at popular attractions like the Ancient City Ruins.

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

• Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at most attractions.
• Local food vendors and small shops provide refreshments and snacks.

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

Most attractions in Ji'an, such as Yanming Lake and the temples, are accessible to elderly and children, but some of the ancient ruins might have uneven terrain, making them challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still commonly used in Ji'an, but many places, including shops and restaurants, also accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants near Ji'an serve traditional Jilin dishes, including dumplings, noodle soups, and rice-based meals. Some cafes are also available for light snacks and drinks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is widely available, but vegan and halal options may be limited in smaller eateries. It's advisable to check the menu before ordering.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few local hotels in Ji'an, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range accommodations. For a wider range of options, consider staying in Tonghua city, located about an hour’s drive away.

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

• Jilin city is nearby, famous for its Ice Lantern Festival and historical sites.
• The Changbai Mountains offer a scenic getaway and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Local souvenir shops offer traditional crafts such as Tibetan jewelry, local textiles, and hand-carved wooden items.

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

From Ji'an, you can take a bus or taxi to Tonghua city, or hire a private car to visit nearby attractions like Changbai Mountain or Jilin city.