Changbai Shan (Changbaishan, Mount Changbai) is a stunning national nature reserve in Jilin Province of northeast China. It is a large park with surreal scenery, part of which sits across the North Korean border.
The park of Changbai Shan covers a huge area and has Changbai Shan, the tallest peak in the region, as its main focus. It is a volcanic mountain with a huge crater lake, Tianchi Lake, which stretches 13kms around and has a deep blue color. Unfortunately, tourists cannot walk right the way around since its southern part lies across North Korean territory.
There is striking scenery all around and a large amount of flora below the lake. Waterfalls, primitive forest, and hot springs are also part of the appeal of Changbai Shan. There is a bathhouse at the base of Mount Changbai where you pay a small fee for a dip. Avoid Changbai Shan between October and May when it is freezing and snowy.
Getting There & Away
From the town of Baihe, buses run toward Changbai Shan. You will need to arrange transport to the national reserve as buses do not stop at the gate. Yanji Airport is the closest one to Baihe (about 150kms northeast) and receives flights from Beijing in around 60 minutes. Trains also run to Baihe from Tonghua. Organizing a tour from Jilin is the easiest way to see Changbai Shan.