Things to do in Yanbian

If you have time, definitely buy the package ticket on the bus—it's super fun! Some people brought several large plastic bags; you can ski and roll around on the mountain! (It's difficult without plastic bags, as they don't sell them on the mountain!)

The top choice around Yanji is Piyanshan Hot Spring, a natural high-fluoride hot spring that springs from 2,500 meters underground. It has a high mineral content, and after soaking, you will feel relaxed and your skin will be smooth and not tight.

Besides rafting, the forest also offers swings, deck chairs, and other relaxing facilities. During the National Day holiday, it took an hour to drive in for rafting, but the queue lasted two to three hours. The scenic area only has one road in and out, which is narrow and mixes pedestrians and vehicles, making it difficult to get in or out. They said the forest development permits were difficult to obtain, and the staff had already tried their best to guide visitors and provide shuttle buses to those in distant parking areas; their service was quite good. I really hope they can find a way to optimize the flow of people, expand the parking lot in front of the scenic area, or consider implementing a one-way system like the one in the valley. There are also tent hotels inside.

Hidden at the foot of Changbai Mountain is a truly tranquil secret – Jiuxi Listening to the Springs. Nine mountain springs emerge from the forest, their tinkling sounds accompanying you along the way. The gentle wooden boardwalk is easy on the feet, suitable for both the elderly and children. In summer, the average temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius, and the water is crystal clear. In autumn, the red leaves are reflected in the water like a flowing oil painting, and in winter, the unfrozen stream combined with frost-covered trees creates an ethereal atmosphere. Coming here isn't about rushing to tourist attractions; it's about shutting out the noise in your head and listening to the whispers of the springs.

Overall, it's quite good. The public area has two floors dedicated to hot springs, with multiple pools, each with different water temperatures and functions, including massage, showers, a wine hot spring, and a children's play area, catering to various needs. The shower area is also very upscale and elegant, with all necessary bathing fees provided; you need to bring your own swimsuit. Since it's inconvenient to bring a phone while swimming, I didn't take any photos of the hot spring area. In short, it's economical and affordable, worth the ticket price.

I came across a forest park by chance, with larch trees all over the ground, heralding the arrival of autumn. One wish after another was fulfilled among the green and yellow leaves. Our life is very rare.

The important point is this: the lady at window number 4, if she can't understand human language, she shouldn't be working. I went over and said I wanted to rent a ski suit and needed a deposit. She immediately asked for a QR code. I asked her if it was a payment code or a ticket voucher, and she acted like a complete idiot, only knowing how to say "QR code." Then she told me to go to the instructor's window next door, and the instructor's window told me to go back there. Then she started arguing, saying I only said "deposit," and she didn't understand??? I ask you this??? Seriously, I'm speechless. Is this all the service she's got? Also, I want to praise the staff. Aside from that one rude lady, all the other staff were very friendly. Since it was the off-season, it wasn't crowded, and the experience was great! 🥰 Also, because I'm a beginner, I hired an instructor. Instructor #1 was not only a great teacher but also very nice; I highly recommend him! 🥳 PS: I don't know if their numbers rotate. 😃 PPS: I bought a four-hour pass. Excluding the time for renting and returning equipment, I actually only skied for about three hours. During peak season, you might need to factor in queue time, so choose your duration carefully!

Even though the Changbai Mountain scenic area is closed, you can still see the lush greenery of autumn, volcanic remains, climb to the top for a panoramic view of the forest, or descend into the valley for a stream tracing.

When visiting Changbai Mountain, don't miss this natural history museum. Here you can learn about the past and present of Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) and the volcano. The sand table model, volcanic images, and abundant flora and fauna specimens encapsulate the story of this mountain range over millions of years. If you encounter clouds and fog on your ascent and can't see Tianchi clearly, the panoramic exhibits inside can make up for it. Visiting before your climb will make your experience of Changbai Mountain completely different.