On National Highway 331, encounter the most beautiful scenery

Along the narrow northeastern border, there is a winding National Highway 331, which connects many hidden scenic spots like a ribbon. The Ji'an section of G331 is especially eye-catching—besides the forests, fields, and villages along the way, you can also experience the border atmosphere between China and North Korea up close. Driving on this road, every frame is a painting, and every step tells a story.

🚗 Heading north along the Yalu River
Driving on the Ji'an section of G331, lush northeastern forests are on your left, and across the narrow Yalu River to your right are North Korean villages. The river water is jade green, and you can often see North Korean farmers working in the fields. The joy of driving here is that you can stop anytime to capture these moments of looking across the river with your camera. Interestingly, the signal towers of the two countries appear alternately, and your phone signal switches back and forth between "China Mobile" and "Korea Unicom."

🌄 G331 Camping Station: A Post on the Borderline
The G331 Camping Station in Ji'an is an excellent rest stop on this driving route. It not only provides supplies but, more importantly, has a superb viewing platform. Camping here at dusk, watching the sunset dye the Yalu River golden while smoke curls from the opposite shore, creates a unique atmosphere. In the morning mist, the occasional songs of North Korean villagers drift over, making time seem to slow down.

The most popular spots are the wooden platforms by the river, where you can set up your camera to capture the winding Yalu River and the distant North Korean mountain villages. Seeing the contrasting landscapes on both sides always reminds one of the complex and intertwined history between the two countries.

From a Roadside Station to a Historic City
Driving along G331, the border town of Ji'an is definitely worth a stop. As the former capital of Goguryeo, it preserves many historical relics, such as Wandushan City and General’s Tomb, which tell the story of its glory 1,600 years ago. Like North Korea across the Yalu River, the people here also maintain ancient ways of life. This blend of past and present is especially felt when enjoying a steaming bowl of sauerkraut and pork at the local market.

National Highway 331 is like a corridor through time and space. Here, in one day, you can see modern China and traditional farming life in North Korea; you can camp under the same starry sky yet fall asleep to different dialects from both sides. Such a journey is destined to be unforgettable.

Post by EllaKuusisto7 | Sep 22, 2025