Snowy Fairy Tale: A Winter Adventure at Changbai Mountain's Xianfeng Snow Ridge or Laolike Lake

Through the train window, the world is already draped in a layer of pure silver. By late November, the northeastern land has quietly donned its winter attire. Friends from the south, as you embark on your journey northward in search of winter as "southern little potatoes," let me unfold this winter scroll of snowy ridges and lakes for you.

Travel Plan: It is recommended to choose either Xianfeng Snow Ridge or Laolike Lake, as they are not far apart. While each has its unique charm, both are about enjoying the snow, so one day is sufficient for either.

(1) Xianfeng Snow Ridge: Stepping into a Fairy Tale Border

The fun at Snow Ridge goes far beyond just taking photos:
- Snowmobile Adventure: Follow a guide and ride a snowmobile deep into secret spots untouched by regular tourists. As the convoy carves arcs through waist-deep snowfields, snowflakes scatter like shattered jade, blending speed with the icy beauty. Remember to wear snow goggles—not just for style but for essential protection.
- Reindeer Sanctuary Moments: In the snow-covered reindeer sanctuary, buy a basket of moss, and these gentle forest spirits will slowly approach. Frost decorates their long eyelashes, and their breath condenses into white mist in the cold air. In this moment, it feels like stepping into a Nordic fairy tale.
- Sunset Viewing Platform: Be sure to reach the viewing platform by 4 PM. When the sunset dyes the entire snowfield golden pink, with distant mountains like ink and nearby snow like silver, you will understand the meaning of "breathtaking beauty."
In the evening, stay at a nearby wooden cabin inn. The underfloor heating dispels the chill, and outside, snow falls silently. On a clear night, look up to see the Milky Way stretching across the sky—here, the winter stars are exceptionally vivid.

(2) Laolike Lake: Slow Moments in a Snowy Wonderland

Set out in the morning for Laolike Lake, where the snow is fluffier, a texture never seen in the south.
The charm of Laolike Lake lies in immersion:
- Horse-Drawn Sleigh: Sit on a sleigh covered with thick blankets as the horse exhales white mist and bells jingle crisply. Passing through birch forests, the snow crunches under the sleigh, offering the most traditional way to experience the rhythm of the snowfield.
- Snow Tube Slide: Ride an inflatable snow tube down a carefully designed slide. The thrill of weightlessness, accompanied by laughter, turns adults into children again. Safety is ensured with professional protection on every slide.
- Deep Snow on the Lake: Walk onto the frozen lake, where snow reaches knee-deep. Rent snowshoes and follow a guide to the lake's center. There, a naturally formed snow cave awaits. Sunlight filters through the snow walls, bathing the world in a dreamy blue glow.

Survival Guide for Southern Little Potatoes:
1. Dressing Smart: Remember the "three-layer rule"—a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm middle layer, and a windproof and waterproof outer layer. A down jacket is essential, but snow boots are even more critical. Choose boots with deep tread patterns and furry interiors. Wool socks are several times warmer than regular cotton socks.
2. Protecting Devices: Keep phones and cameras close to your body, as low temperatures quickly drain batteries. Use hand warmers, but don't place them directly on devices; instead, keep them in adjacent pockets. Before entering indoors, wrap electronics in sealed bags to prevent condensation damage.
3. Skincare Essentials: Northern winters are dry, so bring high-moisture creams, lip balms, and hand creams. Snow reflects strong UV rays, so SPF50+ sunscreen is a must to avoid "plateau red" after a day outside.
4. Safety Tips: Walk slowly with small steps on snow to avoid sudden turns. Never leave marked trails, as seemingly flat snow surfaces may hide deep pits. Follow guides' instructions—they understand weather changes and terrain risks.
5. Culinary Delights: In the evening, try the local iron pot stew, with steaming heat dispelling the cold. The unique texture of frozen pears and persimmons is worth experiencing, and candied hawthorns taste especially delightful at minus 20 degrees Celsius.

Deeper Experiences:
If time allows, consider:
- Snow Camping: With professional guides, spend a night in a snow tent. Gather around a bonfire to roast sweet potatoes and listen to local tales of the wilderness—an unforgettable experience.
- Ice and Snow Photography Workshop: Book a local photographer in advance. They know the best times and places for perfect lighting and can teach you how to capture snowflake crystals and frost details.

When you leave, your luggage will be filled with snow scene photos, and your heart will carry an entire winter's fairy tale. Southern little potatoes, this icy world awaits your footprints and laughter. When spring returns to the south, you'll find that a part of your soul remains forever in that pristine white land.

May your northeastern journey become the warmest memory of this winter—finding the warmest moments in the coldest place.