- Gazing at Changbai Mountain: A Solitary Journey Between Heaven and Earth

Changbai Mountain, located in the southeastern part of Jilin Province, is a border mountain between China and North Korea, renowned as the "First Sacred Mountain of Northeast China." This dormant volcano is famous for its magnificent Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), primeval forests, waterfall clusters, and hot springs, with distinct seasonal landscapes that make it a paradise for photography enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. In 2007, Changbai Mountain was designated as a National 5A-level Tourist Attraction.

**Changbai Mountain Travel Guide (Concise Version)**

**📍 Best Time to Visit:**
- **Summer (June-August):** Escape the heat, Tianchi is open, and alpine flower fields bloom.
- **Autumn (September-October):** Stunning red foliage, ideal for photography.
- **Winter (November-March):** Skiing + hot springs, a snowy wonderland.

**🚗 Transportation:**
- ✈️ Flight: Changbai Mountain Airport (near the West Slope), Yanji Airport (near the North Slope).
- 🚄 Train: Baihe Station (North Slope), Songjianghe Station (West Slope).
- 🚗 Self-drive: About 4-5 hours from Changchun.

**🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions:**
1. **Tianchi (Heavenly Lake)** (West Slope/North Slope) — A volcanic lake, visible only in clear weather.
2. **Changbai Waterfall** — The only outlet of Tianchi, spectacular.
3. **Underground Forest** — Primeval forest trails, a natural oxygen bar.
4. **Green Deep Pool** — Emerald waters and waterfalls, perfect for photos.
5. **Hot Springs** (Lanjing/Crowne Plaza) — Volcanic hot springs, especially refreshing in winter.

**🗺️ Recommended Itineraries:**
- **North Slope 1-Day Tour:** Tianchi → Waterfall → Green Deep Pool → Underground Forest.
- **West Slope 1-Day Tour:** Tianchi (hike 1,442 steps) → Grand Canyon → Alpine Garden (summer).
- **2-Day In-Depth Tour:** Day 1: North Slope Tianchi + hot springs; Day 2: West Slope Tianchi + skiing/rafting.

**🏨 Accommodation:**
- Luxury: Park Hyatt, Westin
- Hot Springs: Lanjing, Crowne Plaza
- Budget: Homestays in Erdao Baihe Town/Songjianghe Town

**🍜 Food:**
- Northeastern Cuisine: Iron pot stew, sweet and sour pork
- Korean: Cold noodles, kimchi
- Wild Delicacies: Wild mushrooms, blueberries

**⚠️ Tips:**
- Tianchi weather is unpredictable; bring windproof jackets.
- Watch for slippery conditions in winter, and sun protection in summer.
- Book tickets in advance; crowded during peak seasons.

Changbai Mountain is beautiful year-round—choose the right time and set off! 🚀