Thought it was Jiuzhaigou, but it's actually the Forest Capital—Yichun!

**Yichun Travel Guide – Exploring the Green Paradise of the "Forest Capital"**

Located in the heart of Xiaoxing'an Mountains in Heilongjiang Province, Yichun is China's renowned "Forest Capital," boasting vast primeval forests, crystal-clear rivers, and unique northern landscapes. With cool summers, vibrant autumn foliage, and snow-covered winters, it's the perfect destination for escaping the heat, admiring fall colors, and skiing.

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**📅 Best Time to Visit**
- **Summer (June–August)**: Average temperature around 20°C, ideal for escaping the heat, forest hiking, and rafting.
- **Autumn (September–October)**: A tapestry of colorful forests (red pines, birch, and maple), the best season for photography.
- **Winter (December–February)**: A snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and hot springs.

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**🌲 Must-Visit Attractions**

**1. Wuying National Forest Park**
- **Highlights**: Asia's largest primeval Korean pine forest, featuring a forest train, Songtao Tower, and Tianci Lake.
- **Duration**: 3–4 hours
- **Tips**: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring mosquito repellent.

**2. Tangwanghe Linhai Qishi Scenic Area**
- **Highlights**: Towering rock formations, clear streams, and a forest "oxygen bar," great for hiking and photography.
- **Duration**: 2–3 hours

**3. Shangganling Xishui National Forest Park**
- **Highlights**: Birch forests, streams, and forest trails, perfect for light hiking and picnics.
- **Duration**: 2 hours

**4. Jiayin Dinosaur National Geopark**
- **Highlights**: The first site in China where dinosaur fossils were discovered, ideal for family trips.
- **Duration**: 1–2 hours

**5. Jinshan Deer Park**
- **Highlights**: Free-roaming sika deer that you can feed up close, great for photos.
- **Duration**: 1 hour

**6. Tieli Riyuexia Ski Resort (Winter)**
- **Highlights**: A well-known ski resort in Heilongjiang, suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers.
- **Duration**: Half a day to a full day

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**🍽️ Food Recommendations**
Yichun's cuisine features Northeastern dishes and wild mountain delicacies. Must-tries include:
- **Wild mountain vegetables**: Fern shoots, aralia shoots, and monkey-leg fern.
- **River fish feast**: Heilongjiang cold-water fish (kaluga sturgeon, salmon).
- **Pine nuts and hazel mushrooms**: Local specialties, great as souvenirs.
- **Blueberry wine**: Made from wild blueberries from Xiaoxing'an Mountains.

**Recommended restaurants**:
- **Yichun Laojiefang Restaurant** (Northeastern cuisine)
- **Lindu Shanzhenge** (wild mushroom feast)

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**🚗 Transportation Guide**
- **By air**: Yichun Lindu Airport (limited flights; consider flying to Harbin first, then taking a train/bus).
- **By train**: Harbin → Yichun (~4–5 hours), ideal for slow travel.
- **By car**: Harbin → Yichun (~4 hours), with scenic views along the way.
- **Local transport**: Attractions are spread out; renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended.

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**🏨 Accommodation Recommendations**
- **Downtown**: Yichun Ginza Hotel, Lindu Hotel (convenient location)
- **Near attractions**: Wuying National Forest Park log cabins (experience a forest stay)
- **Hot spring hotels**: Taoshan Jade Hot Spring (perfect for winter soaking)

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**📌 Travel Tips**
1. **Mosquito protection**: Forest areas have many insects in summer; bring repellent.
2. **Warm clothing**: Large temperature swings; pack a jacket even in summer.
3. **Cash backup**: Weak signal in some areas; mobile payments may not work.
4. **Eco-friendly travel**: Protect the forest environment; do not litter.

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Yichun is a city made for slow travel, whether you're hiking through forests, photographing autumn colors, or skiing in winter—it offers the purest and grandest of nature's beauty. 🌿 Plan an escape to the forest and leave the hustle behind!