Things To Do
in Changchun

Changchun, the capital of Jilin Province in northeastern China, is a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Often referred to as the 'City of Automobiles,' it has a strong industrial base and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. The city features a mix of modern architecture and historical sites, making it a unique destination for travelers.

With numerous parks, museums, and vibrant local markets, Changchun offers an engaging experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Changchun World Sculpture Park, which features over 300 sculptures from artists around the world.

afternoon
:

Head to the Puppet Emperor's Palace for a glimpse into the city's history during the Japanese occupation and enjoy a traditional lunch nearby.

evening
:

Stroll around the beautiful Nanhu Eco-city Central Park, and end your day with dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Changchun Movie Wonderland, where you can explore film sets and enjoy thrilling rides.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Jilin Provincial Museum to learn about the local culture and history.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a night out at a local bar or tea house in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a restaurant$5
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel per night$30
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Diverse outdoor activities year-round.
  • Affordable living costs.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Cold winters may limit outdoor activities.
  • Limited international dining options.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Changchun

Visit one of these nice places.

Changchun World Sculpture Park

This park offers a stunning array of sculptures set against lush greenery, perfect for capturing unique photographs.

Puppet Emperor's Palace

The historical architecture and beautiful gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Nanhu Eco-city Central Park

A serene park with lakes and walking paths, ideal for capturing nature and leisurely moments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Changchun

Changchun boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage. Local dishes often feature fresh ingredients and hearty flavors, making them a must-try for any visitor.

Changchun Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jilin Cold Noodles

A refreshing dish served with cold noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce.

Must-Try!

Dongbei Dumplings

Traditional dumplings filled with various meats and vegetables, often served with vinegar and garlic sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Changchun Street Food Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of street food, including grilled skewers and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Changchun experiences a temperate continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), while winters can be very cold, sometimes dropping to -20°C (-4°F). Spring and autumn are mild and offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is important; always greet them politely.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversations, especially with strangers.

Safety Guide

Safety

Changchun is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep your belongings secure in crowded places.

Tipping in Changchun

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Changchun, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s advisable to carry cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, making it ideal for water activities and late-night outings.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and cooler temperatures make it perfect for hiking and exploring parks.

Winter

Winters are cold with heavy snowfall, providing opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Nightlife Guide

Changchun at Night

Changchun's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of bars, clubs, and tea houses. Popular areas include the city center, where you can find live music, karaoke bars, and dance clubs. Many establishments stay open late, catering to both locals and tourists, and offer a range of drinks and entertainment options.

Hiking in Changchun

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Changbai Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Ning'an Mountain Trail

This trail provides a less crowded hiking experience with beautiful scenery and a chance to explore local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Changchun by plane.

Changchun Longjia International Airport

Located approximately 30 km from the city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to Changchun.

Getting Around

Walkability

Changchun is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available at most intersections. However, some areas may require walking on the road due to construction or other obstacles.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Changchun, representing a significant portion of the population with deep cultural roots.

Korean Minority

A smaller demographic group with unique cultural traditions and influences, particularly in cuisine and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played and followed, with many local teams and courts available throughout the city.

Ice Hockey

Due to the cold winters, ice hockey is a popular sport, with local leagues and teams actively participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Changchun can be congested during peak hours, especially in the city center. Public transportation includes buses and subways, which are efficient and affordable. Taxis and rideshare services are also available, making it easy to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Changchun.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for meat-based broths or sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Changchun is accessible, with several public and private hospitals available. Major hospitals offer services in English, but it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide