Exploring Changbai Mountain's Heavenly Lake

Discover Changbai Mountain's Heavenly Lake | Trip.com's Complete Travel Guide to Unlock the "Northeast's First Wonder"

1. Must-Know Basics Before Your Trip:

- Location: Situated in southeastern Jilin Province, spanning the North Slope, West Slope, and South Slope scenic areas of Changbai Mountain. The North Slope is the most developed, the West Slope offers panoramic views, and the South Slope remains pristine (open only about 3 months annually, requiring advance booking).
- Best Seasons:
- June-September (Summer): Pleasant temperatures (15-20°C), lush vegetation, ideal for family trips with alpine flower gardens.
- November-March (Winter): Snow-covered landscapes with stunning rime scenery, but temperatures drop below -20°C—prepare for extreme cold.
- Trip.com Booking Tip: Reserve combo tickets (entry + shuttle) 3-7 days in advance via the Trip.com app. For peak season (July-August), opt for timeslots before 8 AM to avoid crowds.

2. Transportation Guide:

- By Air: Direct flights to Changbaishan Airport (30 mins to West Slope) or connect via Changchun Longjia Airport with high-speed rail (3 hrs to Dunhua/Antu stations) + scenic shuttle (bookable on Trip.com).
- By Train: From Shenyang/Changchun to "Changbaishan Station" (North Slope) or "Songjianghe Station" (West Slope).
- In-Park Transport:
- North Slope: Shuttle bus (gate → transfer hub) + off-road vehicle (to lakeside).
- West Slope: Shuttle bus (gate → parking lot) + 1,442-step hike to summit.
- Trip.com Convenience: Book "Flight + Hotel + Shuttle" packages with airport/park transfers.

3. Top Experiences Across Three Slopes:

North Slope (Classic Route):
- Highlights: Mature facilities, dense attractions, off-road access to lakeside.
- Itinerary: Heavenly Lake Viewpoint → Julong Hot Springs (try boiled eggs) → Green Deep Pool → Small Heavenly Lake → Underground Forest.
- Trip.com Exclusive: "VIP Fast Pass" saves 2+ hours in queues.

West Slope (Hikers' Choice):
- Highlights: 360° views, alpine gardens (July-August only).
- Must-Do: Summit hike → Jinjiang Grand Canyon → Wang Pool (hidden gem).
- Trip.com Special: "Stargazing Camping" for Milky Way nights and sunrise views.

South Slope (Wilderness Escape):
- Highlights: Fewer crowds, dramatic perspectives, Yalu River headwaters.
- Note: Daily visitor caps—secure "South Slope Special Tickets" early on Trip.com.

4. Accommodation Picks:

- Near North Slope:
- Wanda Jinhuá Resort (family-friendly, ski/onsen perks).
- Erdaobaihe Town homestays (Korean-style, from ¥150/person).
- Near West Slope:
- Swissôtel Roi Pine (Nordic design, private snow views).
- Songjianghe budget hotels (great value).

5. Food Tips:

- Must-Try: Iron-pot fish stew, ginseng chicken soup, Korean cold noodles, goose stew.
- Pro Tip: Park dining is pricey—book Trip.com "Meal-Inclusive Day Tours" to save 30%.

6. Essential Advice:

- Pack: Windproof jacket, non-slip shoes, sunglasses (snow glare), power bank, thermos.
- Weather Check: Use Trip.com's "Live Park Updates" 2 hours pre-visit for real-time conditions.
- Safety Net: Purchase Trip.com's "Travel Insurance" for 24/7 emergency support.