Autumn in Northeast China is just as stunning as Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang

By chance, I discovered that autumn in Northeast China is actually a "top-tier experience"! This region boasts two treasure areas: the Greater Khingan Range and Changbai Mountain, yet it has remained quietly underrated.

No snow-capped mountains? No problem! Vast maple forests, clear volcanic lakes, expansive meadows, and leisurely grazing cattle—every snapshot looks like a perfect Windows desktop background. The best part is the super affordable prices—what you pay for one night in Xinjiang can cover the entire trip here! Before it becomes a popular internet hotspot, quickly save this guide!

🚗 5-Day Golden Self-Driving Route

Day 1: Arrive at Baishan/Changbai Mountain, pick up your car, and start the journey → Day 2: Head to Ganfanpen National Forest Park → Check in at Laotudingshan → Explore the Creek Valley Scenic Area → Day 3: Deep exploration of Longwanqun National Forest Park → Day 4: Experience Luoshui River rafting + interact with deer → Day 5: Visit Changbai Mountain North Slope (route can also be arranged in reverse)

📸 Four Must-Capture “Top” Scenes

Creek Valley Scenic Area "Maple Leaf Meadow"

- This is a hidden gem that’s easy to miss on navigation! The valley is full of red maples, golden meadows, and leisurely cattle wandering—healing and photogenic scenery.

- It’s recommended to bring a picnic mat and spend half a day here to fully immerse yourself in the autumn atmosphere.

Sifangding "God’s Viewpoint"

- Requires a 30-minute hike to the summit, with autumn scenery all along the way.

- From the top, you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the forest sea changing colors. Drone footage here is especially breathtaking.

Longwanqun "Volcanic Blue Tears"

- The park has six volcanic lakes, each with different water colors, like a spilled palette, very lively.

- Focus on visiting Big Longwan and Triangle Longwan. It’s windy in the mountains, so remember to bring a windbreaker.

Luoshui River "Maple Leaf Rafting"

- This is a unique autumn rafting experience in the country, drifting through river channels surrounded by red leaves.

- The water is quite cold, so prepare a change of clothes in advance to avoid catching a chill after getting wet.

💡 Practical Tips

- ▫️ In September and October, temperatures in the Northeast mountain areas range from 5-18°C. A thin down jacket plus a windbreaker is enough to keep warm.

- ▫️ Mobile and network signals are often unstable in the mountains. Be sure to download offline maps before departure to avoid getting lost.

- ▫️ When renting a car, prioritize an SUV. Some road sections have many gravel stones, and SUVs have better passability and safer driving.