The First Sacred Mountain of Northeast China

Here’s a detailed **Changbai Mountain travel guide**, covering transportation, attractions, seasonal recommendations, accommodations, and tips to help you explore this "First Sacred Mountain of Northeast China"!

1. Introduction to Changbai Mountain
Located in the southeast of Jilin Province, Changbai Mountain is a border mountain between China and North Korea, famous for its Heavenly Lake, waterfalls, hot springs, and primeval forests. The scenery varies by season:
- Spring/Summer: Lush greenery, alpine gardens in full bloom (best in July-August).
- Autumn: Vibrant foliage (late September to early October).
- Winter: A snowy kingdom and ski paradise (November to March).

2. How to Get There?
1. By Air ✈️
- Changbai Mountain Airport (about 20 km from the West Slope), with flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Changchun, etc.
- Yanji Airport (about 2.5-hour drive to the North Slope), offering more flight options.
2. By Train/High-Speed Rail 🚄
- Baihe Station (closest to the North Slope, near the town of Erdao Baihe).
- Songjianghe Station (near the West Slope).
3. By Car/Private Transfer
- About 4-5 hours’ drive from Changchun or Yanji. Note icy roads in winter.

3. Comparison of the Three Slopes
Changbai Mountain has the North Slope, West Slope, and South Slope (the East Slope is in North Korea). A combination visit is recommended.

- **North Slope**: Most attractions (Heavenly Lake, waterfalls, hot springs, Green Deep Pool). Ideal for first-time visitors and families. Well-developed but offers a narrower view of the Heavenly Lake.
- **West Slope**: Panoramic view of the Heavenly Lake, requires climbing 1,442 steps. Best for fit travelers and photographers. Stunning alpine gardens in summer.
- **South Slope**: Most pristine, closest view of the Heavenly Lake, with daily visitor limits. Perfect for niche, in-depth exploration. Only open in summer (June-October).

4. Must-Visit Attractions
1. **Heavenly Lake**: The core attraction, a volcanic crater lake that shines like a sapphire on clear days (open year-round but may close in winter due to snow).
2. **Changbai Waterfall**: A 68-meter cascade, the only outlet of the Heavenly Lake (North Slope).
3. **Underground Forest (Valley Forest)**: Primeval forest trails with high oxygen levels (North Slope).
4. **Green Deep Pool**: Emerald waters and waterfalls, great for photos (North Slope).
5. **Alpine Garden**: A floral paradise on the West Slope (best in July).
6. **Hot Spring Cluster**: Try eggs boiled in hot springs (Julong Spring on the North Slope).

5. Classic Itinerary
**2-Day, 1-Night Route (North + West Slopes)**
- **Day 1**: North Slope
Erdao Baihe Town → Changbai Mountain North Scenic Area (Heavenly Lake → Waterfall → Green Deep Pool → Underground Forest) → Hot springs at night.
- **Day 2**: West Slope
West Scenic Area (Heavenly Lake → Alpine Garden → Jinjiang Grand Canyon) → Return.

**Winter Specials**:
Skiing (Wanda/Resort World) + Heavenly Lake + Magic World Rafting (rime scenery).

6. Accommodation Recommendations
1. **North Slope**: Erdao Baihe Town (budget-friendly, convenient dining)
- Luxury: The Tribute Hotel, Blue View Hot Spring Hotel.
- Budget: Home Inn, Hanting, etc.
2. **West Slope**: Wanda/Resort World (best for skiing, full amenities)
- Ski-inclusive hotels (Park Hyatt, Hyatt, etc.).
3. **South Slope**: Stay in Songjianghe Town or Changbai County.

7. Tips
1. **Weather**: The Heavenly Lake is at high altitude, 10°C+ colder than the base. Bring a jacket even in summer; winter requires down coats + anti-slip shoes.
2. **Tickets**: Book in advance via the official account (peak season quotas). Tickets + shuttle cost ~200-300 RMB/person.
3. **Altitude Sickness**: The Heavenly Lake is at 2,189m—avoid strenuous activity.
4. **Eco-Friendly**: No littering in the Heavenly Lake area.

8. Food Recommendations
- Northeastern specialties: Iron pot stew, chicken stewed with mushrooms, sweet and sour pork.
- Korean flavors: Cold noodles, kimchi, rice cakes (more authentic in Yanji).
- Hot spring eggs: Tender eggs boiled in Julong Spring (10 RMB/3 eggs).

In summary, Changbai Mountain is stunning year-round—cool in summer, snowy in winter. The Heavenly Lake’s grandeur is worth multiple visits! Choose your slope based on season and interest, and plan ahead.