At the Foot of Changbai Mountain: A Poetic Border Town with Unique Charm

Linjiang City, nestled in the southeastern part of Jilin Province amid the Changbai Mountains and along the Yalu River, is a picturesque and historic border town. It boasts abundant natural landscapes, including alpine meadows, primeval forests, waterfalls, and streams, as well as red cultural relics and Korean ethnic customs. Here’s a travel guide to Linjiang, covering attractions, food, accommodation, and transportation tips:

---

**1. Must-Visit Attractions**
1. **Xigu Grassland**
- Located in Laosandui Village, Huashan Town, it’s renowned for its alpine meadows and primeval forests. In autumn, the scenery resembles a vibrant oil painting. Hike to enjoy panoramic views of Changbai Mountain, sunrise, and sea of clouds, and encounter grazing cattle and sheep.
- **Best season**: Mid-September to mid-October (peak autumn foliage).
- **Ticket**: ~¥30/person.

2. **Songling Snow Village**
- Famous for winter snowscapes but equally charming in summer and autumn. The rustic village is perfect for photography. Try Northeastern specialties like iron-pot stew and wild mountain vegetables.
- **Best season**: Winter (Dec-Feb) for snow; autumn (Sep-Oct) for fall foliage.
- **Transport**: Self-driving is most convenient—navigate to "Songling Village."

3. **Jiangxin Island Park**
- A lush island in the Yalu River, ideal for strolling or cycling. At night, the illuminated park offers romantic views of the border town.
- **Best time**: Evening (for sunset and nightscapes).
- **Ticket**: Free.

4. **Laotudingzi**
- Named for its flat grassland summit, it was a filming location for *A Lifelong Journey*. Hike to the top for breathtaking views of meadows and forests.
- **Ticket**: ¥30/person.

5. **Sibao Linjiang Campaign Memorial Hall & Chen Yun’s Former Residence**
- Red tourism sites showcasing Liberation War history, ideal for history buffs.
- **Ticket**: Free.

6. **Weishahe Town**
- Known for its "Yalu River Whole Fish Banquet," featuring fresh river fish and fishing village culture.

---

**2. Local Delicacies**
1. **Yalu River Whole Fish Banquet** (Weishahe Town)
- Dishes: Steamed mandarin fish, braised carp, river shrimp.
2. **Korean Cuisine** (Sandaoyangcha Korean Village)
- Cold noodles, rice cakes, kimchi, buckwheat noodles.
3. **Northeastern BBQ & Iron-Pot Stew**
- Linjiang Night Market is great for skewers, jianbing (savory crepes), and snacks.

---

**3. Accommodation**
1. **Hotels near Jiangxin Island** (convenient for night walks)
- E.g., Baiwang Lijiang Hotel, Qianbaihe Hotel.
2. **Songling Snow Village Homestays** (experience rural Northeast life).
3. **Hot Spring Resorts** (e.g., Longrun Hot Springs in Huashan Town for relaxation).

---

**4. Transportation**
- **Self-driving**: Explore via G331 National Highway (scenic border route), linking Laotudingzi, Songling, and Xigu Grassland.
- **Public transport**: Take a bus from Baishan or Changchun to Linjiang, then hire a car/taxi to attractions.

---

**5. Best Travel Seasons**
- **Spring (Apr-May)**: Strawberry picking (Huashan Town, Pokou Village).
- **Summer (Jun-Aug)**: Escape heat, river rafting (Yalu River).
- **Autumn (Sep-Oct)**: Fall foliage, grassland views (Xigu, Songling).
- **Winter (Dec-Feb)**: Skiing, snow village (Songling, Longtou Mountain Ice & Snow Park).

---

**6. Tips**
- Pack windproof jackets—Linjiang has large day-night temperature swings.
- Some spots (e.g., Xigu, Laotudingzi) require self-driving/car hire; plan routes ahead.
- Visit morning markets (Nanweizi Street) for wild veggies and dried goods.

Though small, Linjiang blends nature, history, and border culture, perfect for short road trips or in-depth exploration. A great choice to avoid crowds!