Things To Do
in Jilin
Jilin Province, located in the northeastern part of China, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Heavenly Lake in Changbai Mountain, and its bitterly cold winters that facilitate ice festivals and skiing. The region is also celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, with influences from various ethnic groups, including the Manchus, Han Chinese, Koreans, and Mongols.
Jilin's economy thrives on a mix of agriculture, focusing on corn and soybeans, heavy industry, and technology sectors, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern influences.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Jilin First Railway Bridge for stunning views. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby noodle shop.
Explore the beautiful vistas of the Songhua River by taking a boat tour. Don't miss the local markets for some shopping and street food.
Wrap up the day with a peaceful stroll along the riverbanks. Try some traditional Jilin dishes for dinner at a cozy restaurant.
Start your day with a visit to the Changbai Mountain Scenic Area. Enjoy breathtaking views and the fresh mountain air.
Visit the hot springs nearby to relax and unwind. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a mountain lodge.
Return to Jilin city after a day of exploration. Savor a warm bowl of ramen for dinner at a nearby eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with several UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and rivers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Strong agricultural base, known for high-quality produce such as rice and ginseng.
- Developing economy with government support for various industries.
- Diverse ethnic groups, enriching local culture and traditions.
- Harsh winters with extremely cold temperatures, which can be challenging for residents and travelers.
- Limited job opportunities in comparison to larger metropolitan areas.
- Air pollution issues in some urban areas may affect health and quality of life.
- Inadequate public transportation infrastructure compared to more developed regions.
- Less international exposure and fewer English-speaking residents, which can hinder communication for foreigners.
Best Activities in Jilin
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Changbai Mountain Nature Reserve, home to stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and diverse flora and fauna. Popular activities include hiking, birdwatching, and skiing in winter.
Enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and cycling around the picturesque Songhua Lake. In winter, the frozen lake becomes a popular spot for ice skating and snow sports.
Explore the beautiful Beishan Forest Park, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing amidst lush forests and scenic landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jilin with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jilin
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views and photo opportunities of the majestic mountains, forests, and lakes.
Provides picturesque views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and opportunities for boating or winter sports photography.
Known for its scenic beauty and photo-worthy scenes, especially during winter when the lake freezes over.
Food in Jilin
Jilin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This flavorful dish combines pickled Chinese cabbage with fresh fish in a savory and slightly sour broth. It can be found in many local restaurants, especially in Changchun and Jilin City.
Must-Try!
A hot pot originating from Jilin typically features a robust, flavorful broth with a rich assortment of meats, vegetables, and handmade noodles. Visit specialty hot pot restaurants in the region to experience this heartwarming dish.
Known for its rich, smoky flavor, the Jilin smoked pork is often used in various local dishes. To savor this distinctive ingredient, look for it in local markets or dine at traditional Jilin cuisine restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jilin better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food street in Changchun offers an array of local street food, including fried stinky tofu, grilled skewers, and candied haws. It's a paradise for food enthusiasts seeking authentic Jilin street food experiences.
Explore the vibrant Jilin food market to discover an abundance of fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional Jilin specialties like wild mushroom varieties and fermented bean pastes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jilin, it is important to show respect for elders, both in language and behavior. This includes using proper titles and gestures of deference.
Gift giving is a common practice in Jilin as a sign of respect and gratitude. When offering a gift, it is important to present it with both hands and show humility.
Being aware of social hierarchy and respecting authority figures is crucial. It is important to show deference to those in senior positions, both in personal and professional settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jilin with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jilin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Jilin, China. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Payment in Jilin, China is predominantly done using cash, although major credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted in urban areas. Mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also popular and widely used for various transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jilin.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a good time to visit Jilin as the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. The temperature is generally pleasant, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Jilin. The weather is warm and humid, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and enjoying water activities in the surrounding lakes and rivers.
Autumn is another great time to visit Jilin. The weather is cool and comfortable, and the city is adorned with beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for sightseeing.
Winter in Jilin is cold and snowy, but it's the perfect time to experience winter sports and activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hot spring bathing.
Jilin at Night
Hiking in Jilin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant autumn foliage, and the famous Heavenly Lake located at its summit. It's a popular destination for hiking and enjoying the scenic views.
This park features diverse flora and fauna, as well as a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene environment of the forest.
A beautiful area characterized by its unique landscapes and rich biodiversity. It offers several hiking routes that allow for exploration of the lush surroundings and nearby rivers.
Known for its rugged terrain and challenging trails, Tianjing Mountain provides hikers with an adventurous experience, along with breathtaking views of the surrounding regions.
A lesser-known hiking destination providing trails for nature lovers and a chance to observe local wildlife. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jilin through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jilin by plane.
Located in Changchun, approximately 110 kilometers west of Jilin, this is the nearest major international airport serving the region.
Situated in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, it is about 300 kilometers southwest of Jilin and serves as a significant hub for international flights.
Located in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, approximately 370 kilometers northeast of Jilin, this airport provides various international connections.
About 500 kilometers south of Jilin in Dalian, Liaoning Province, it is a key airport for international flights in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Jilin, accounting for a significant percentage of the population.
A significant ethnic minority in Jilin, particularly in regions near the border with North Korea.
An ethnic group indigenous to northeast China, with a historic presence in Jilin.
An ethnic minority with a smaller population in Jilin, part of the Mongolic peoples.
Includes smaller groups such as Hui, Zhuang, and others, collectively making up a small portion of the population.
The Soul of Jilin
Discover the essence of Jilin through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Jilin, often played in schools and local communities. The province has produced several professional players and has a strong basketball culture.
Table Tennis is widely played in Jilin, with many training centers and clubs dedicated to the sport. It enjoys great popularity due to China's strong international reputation in the game.
Soccer is increasingly popular in Jilin, with many grassroots initiatives and local clubs promoting the sport at youth levels and in communities.
Given Jilin's cold climate, ice hockey has a growing following, with many players participating in local leagues and tournaments.
Badminton is a well-liked sport in Jilin, played recreationally and competitively across various age groups, often in schools and community centers.
Volleyball has a significant presence in Jilin, with both indoor and beach volleyball being popular among students and local athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jilin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants in Jilin accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets, with an increasing number of specialized eateries focusing on plant-based cuisine.
While gluten-free awareness is growing in Jilin, it is advisable to communicate your dietary requirements clearly in restaurants. Look for dishes that prominently feature rice, vegetables, and fresh seafood for gluten-free choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jilin with these cultural adventures.
