Things To Do
in Changchun
Changchun, the capital of Jilin Province in northeastern China, is a major city with a rich history that was once the capital of the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo. Today, it's recognized for its prominent automotive industry and educational institutions, making it an important economic and cultural hub in the region.
The city also boasts charming parks, such as the Changchun World Sculpture Park, blending modern development with natural beauty and historical depth.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Puppet Emperor's Palace, where you can learn about the intriguing history of the last emperor of China. Enjoy a stroll in the surrounding gardens to soak in the beautiful scenery.
Head to the Changchun World's Grand Garden, a stunning theme park with various attractions and beautiful garden layouts. Spend time enjoying the rides or simply relax by the lakeside.
Dine at a local restaurant and try some delicious Jilin cuisine, known for its unique flavors. Take an evening walk along the street markets and indulge in some local snacks.
Visit Nanhu Eco-city Central Park for a refreshing morning walk surrounded by lush greenery and serene waters. Participate in outdoor activities like cycling or boating to energize your day.
Travel to the nearby Changchun Jingyuetan National Forest Park. Enjoy hiking trails that offer stunning vistas and a chance to connect with nature.
Relax at one of the park's scenic spots to watch the sunset. Have a picnic dinner while soaking in the tranquility of the great outdoors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in cultural heritage, with numerous museums and historic sites.
- A major automotive manufacturing hub, providing job opportunities.
- Scenic parks and natural beauty, including the nearby Changchun World Sculpture Park.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Chinese cities.
- Good transportation links, including high-speed rail and an airport.
- Less international exposure compared to larger cities like Beijing or Shanghai.
- Cold winters with harsh weather conditions.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options.
- Air quality can sometimes be an issue due to industrial activity.
- Economic development may lead to urban sprawl and infrastructure challenges.
Best Activities in Changchun
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore this theme park with a range of outdoor activities, including roller coasters and water rides.
Enjoy outdoor leisure activities such as boating, picnicking, and strolling around the picturesque lake.
Experience outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and taking in the beautiful natural scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Changchun with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Changchun
Visit one of these nice places.
Nanhu Park offers beautiful views of the lake and is a great spot for photography, especially during sunset.
Jingyuetan National Forest Park is known for its natural beauty and stunning views, making it a perfect location for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Changchun
Changchun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish featuring crispy pork pieces coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, often found at local restaurants like Dong Fang Hong and Guo Lin Jia Changchun.
Must-Try!
A flavorful fish soup made with pickled vegetables, chili, and Sichuan peppercorns, widely available at Lao Li Changchun Restaurant and Tian Ran Ju.
These delicious dumplings, available in a variety of fillings, can be savored at Qianwei Jiaozi and Sanpin Jiaozi Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Changchun better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market is a treasure trove of street food delights, offering everything from grilled skewers and spicy hot pot to stinky tofu and jianbing (Chinese crepes).
A paradise for food enthusiasts, this street boasts an array of local snacks such as lamb kebabs, baozi, and fried rice noodles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Changchun, it is important to show respect to elders, including using formal titles and addressing them with polite language.
When dining in Changchun, it is customary to wait until the host begins eating before starting your meal, and to use chopsticks properly.
Personal space is valued in Changchun, so it's important to be mindful of proximity and avoid standing too close to others in public settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Changchun with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Changchun
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not generally practiced in Changchun, China. It is not expected or required to leave a gratuity at restaurants, hotels, or for services.
Payment in Changchun, China is primarily done through cash or mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay or Alipay. Credit cards are also becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger businesses and hotels.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Changchun.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Changchun as the weather is mild and comfortable. You can expect beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom at Jingyuetan Park, and outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking are enjoyable during this season.
Summer in Changchun is warm and humid, with occasional rainfall. It's a good time for outdoor activities, and you can explore attractions like the Puppet Emperor's Palace and Nanhu Park. Just be prepared for the heat and occasional showers.
Autumn is one of the best times to visit Changchun, as the weather is pleasant and the city is adorned with colorful foliage. It's a good time for exploring the scenic countryside and visiting places like the Geological Palace Museum and the Changchun World Sculpture Park.
Winter can be extremely cold in Changchun, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, it's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts, as you can enjoy activities like skiing and ice skating at Beidahu Ski Resort and other winter sports facilities in the area.
Changchun at Night
Hiking in Changchun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park featuring trails for walking and hiking, along with beautiful lakes and greenery.
A scenic river park with multi-use trails ideal for hiking and enjoying nature walks.
An expansive park that offers hiking paths among historical architecture and stunning landscapes.
Beautiful botanical gardens with various walking paths and areas for light hiking.
A tranquil park featuring bamboo groves and walking trails, perfect for a peaceful hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Changchun through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Changchun by plane.
The primary international airport serving Changchun, with a major focus on domestic flights but also offering international services.
Located approximately 140 kilometers from Changchun, this airport serves the Shenyang region and offers a wide range of international flights.
Situated about 300 kilometers from Changchun, it serves Harbin and is an international gateway in northeastern China.
Located approximately 450 kilometers from Changchun, this airport serves Dalian and provides numerous international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Changchun, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority group in Changchun, with a rich cultural heritage and history in the region.
Originally the ruling class of the Qing Dynasty, they have a historical presence in Changchun.
Includes smaller groups such as Mongols, Hui, and others that contribute to the cultural diversity of the city.
The Soul of Changchun
Discover the essence of Changchun through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Changchun, with a strong following and many local teams. The city has produced several professional players.
Soccer enjoys a significant fan base in Changchun, thanks to the presence of clubs and grassroots initiatives promoting the sport.
Given Changchun's cold climate, ice hockey is a favored sport, with local ice rinks and youth leagues contributing to its popularity.
Table tennis is widely played and celebrated in Changchun, reflecting China's overall passion for the sport at all levels.
Volleyball is popular in schools and community centers throughout Changchun, with both indoor and beach variants being played.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Changchun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Changchun cuisine heavily features meat, several restaurants like Bai Wei Xuan and Vegetarian Lifestyle offer vegetarian and vegan dishes such as tofu stir-fry and vegetable soups.
For those seeking gluten-free options, international chains like Starbucks and Haagen-Dazs in Changchun provide a selection of gluten-free snacks and desserts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Changchun with these cultural adventures.