Things To Do
in Shulan

Shulan is a charming city located in Jilin Province, northeastern China. Known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes, Shulan offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences. The city is also famous for its traditional architecture and local cuisine, making it a delightful destination for travelers.

With a population that reflects a mix of Han Chinese and ethnic minorities, Shulan provides a glimpse into the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Shulan's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Shulan Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Spend some time exploring the exhibits showcasing the city's past.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic Shulan Old Town, where you can wander through ancient streets and admire traditional architecture. Stop by local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes, and then take a leisurely stroll along the riverside park to enjoy the night views.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the nearby Yalu River Scenic Area for a morning hike and enjoy the picturesque views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at a local tea house and experience the traditional Chinese tea culture. Sample various teas and snacks.

evening
:

Spend your evening at a local market, exploring the street food scene and trying different delicacies before heading back to your accommodation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$3
🍵Cup of Tea$2
🍽️Restaurant Meal$10
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel per Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English signage and language barriers.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent or reliable.
  • Winter temperatures can be extremely cold.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Shulan

Visit one of these nice places.

Shulan Old Town

Captivating traditional architecture and narrow alleys make this an ideal spot for capturing the essence of Shulan.

Yalu River Scenic Area

Breathtaking views of the river and surrounding nature provide stunning backdrops for landscape photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant colors and bustling activity in the markets offer great opportunities for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shulan

Shulan offers a delectable range of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of northeastern China, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Shulan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shulan Cold Noodles

A refreshing dish made with chilled noodles, served with a tangy sauce and topped with fresh vegetables.

Must-Try!

Stewed Pork with Potatoes

Tender pork cooked slowly with potatoes and flavored with a variety of spices, offering a hearty meal.

Jilin Hot Pot

A communal dining experience featuring a simmering pot of broth with a selection of meats, vegetables, and noodles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shulan Night Market

A bustling market offering a wide variety of street food, including skewers, dumplings, and local snacks.

Dongbei Snacks Street

Famous for its variety of traditional northeastern snacks, this street is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shulan experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are long and cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and autumn are brief but pleasant, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it’s common to greet them first.

Table Manners

When dining, wait for the host to start eating and avoid pointing with chopsticks.

Gift Giving

If invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift like fruit or sweets.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shulan is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take common safety precautions, such as keeping your belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Shulan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China, but leaving small change for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is also accepted, but it's advisable to have some on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures start to warm up, flowers bloom, and it's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals and local cuisine.

Autumn

Cool temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with snow; winter sports and hot pot dining become popular activities.

Nightlife Guide

Shulan at Night

Shulan's nightlife features a mix of local bars, KTV (karaoke) lounges, and tea houses. The atmosphere is generally laid-back, with many locals enjoying karaoke with friends. Street food vendors also become lively at night, offering delicious snacks to enjoy while strolling through the city.

Hiking in Shulan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yalu River Trail

A scenic trail that follows the Yalu River, offering breathtaking views and a moderate hiking experience.

Shulan Mountain Trail

A more challenging trail that leads to a summit with panoramic views of the surrounding area, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Shulan by plane.

Jilin Songjianghe Airport

Located approximately 60 kilometers from Shulan, this airport offers domestic flights connecting to major cities in China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shulan is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where attractions, restaurants, and shops are in close proximity. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but some areas may be less pedestrian-friendly. It's advisable to use caution when crossing streets, as traffic can be busy.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The largest ethnic group in Shulan, making up the majority of the population and influencing local culture.

Korean Minority

A significant ethnic minority in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and culinary variety in Shulan.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played among the youth in Shulan, with many local courts available for public use.

Table Tennis

A popular sport in China, table tennis is frequently played in parks and community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shulan can be congested during peak hours, especially near markets and schools. Public transportation consists mainly of buses, which are affordable and cover most areas of the city. Taxis are also available but may require basic communication skills to navigate.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shulan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask if they use meat broth.

Gluten-Free Needs

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Shulan is adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, but language barriers may exist for non-Chinese speakers. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide