Changchun

City Overview: Changchun, the Spring City of Northern China

Welcome to Changchun, a vibrant city known as the "Spring City of the North." It's not only the cradle of Chinese cinema and the starting point of the automobile industry, but also a modern city carrying unique historical memories and abundant natural scenery. With Xootour, you'll explore every corner of Changchun, experiencing its cinematic romance, industrial pulse, historical weight, and the natural beauty of its four distinct seasons.

Historical Retrospect: The Legacy of the Manchukuo Puppet State and the Rise of Industry

Unique historical imprint

Changchun's historical trajectory is unique. From a small town in the late Qing Dynasty to a hub of the Chinese Eastern Railway, and then to "Xinjing" (Changchun's capital) of the puppet state of Manchukuo, the city underwent dramatic changes in a short period. This special history has left a deep imprint on Changchun, shaping its distinctive urban landscape and architectural style.

The Puppet Emperor's Palace Museum: This is the former palace of Puyi, the last emperor of China, and an important historical witness to the Japanese invasion of China. A stroll through the museum allows you to learn about that turbulent period of history and feel its weight and complexity. The museum houses a wealth of precious artifacts and historical materials, making it an indispensable stop for understanding the history of Manchukuo.

The Eight Ministries: Located on both sides of Xinmin Street, these buildings were the former offices of eight important government agencies during the Manchukuo period. These buildings, each with its own distinct style, blend classical, Japanese, and Western architectural elements. Most are still in use today, forming a unique architectural landscape in Changchun and providing valuable resources for the study of modern architectural history.

Cultural Square: As the central square of Changchun, it connects the Puppet Manchukuo Palace and the Eight Ministries, and is an important place for citizens' leisure and entertainment. The Geological Palace (formerly the New Palace of the Puppet Manchukuo) on the square is magnificent and is now the Jilin University Museum, displaying rich geological minerals and paleontological fossils.

The Glory of the Cradle of Industry

After the founding of the People's Republic of China, Changchun became a key industrial base for national development, particularly for the automobile and film industries. It was known as the "Automobile City" and the "Film City," making significant contributions to the industrialization and cultural development of the new China.

China FAW Group: Founded in 1953, the First Automobile Works of China was established here, producing the first Jiefang (Liberation) truck and the first Hongqi (Red Flag) sedan in the People's Republic of China, thus opening a new chapter in China's automobile industry. Although ordinary tourists cannot easily penetrate the factory, its influence on the city is ubiquitous, and the people of Changchun have a special affection for automobiles.

Changchun Film Studio: As the cradle of China's film industry, Changchun Film Studio has created countless classic films, such as "Shangganling" and "Heroes and Daughters," and nurtured generations of film talents. The Changchun Film Studio Museum is a must-visit for film enthusiasts and history buffs, allowing them to relive the golden age of Chinese cinema through precious images, props, and sets.

In-depth experience: N ways to explore Changchun

Film Art Tour

Besides the Changchun Film Studio Museum, you can also visit the biennial Changchun International Film Festival to feel the city's cinematic pulse. Searching for film-related sculptures and murals throughout the city, and even experiencing the retro atmosphere of some old cinemas, are all unique film-themed experiences.

Natural scenery and the charm of the four seasons

Jingyuetan National Forest Park, known as "Asia's largest man-made forest," is the green heart of Changchun. It boasts distinct scenery in all four seasons: spring brings blooming flowers, summer offers lush greenery and is a perfect summer retreat; autumn paints the forests in vibrant colors; and winter transforms the landscape into a pristine white wonderland, a paradise for winter sports. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, skiing, and taking a cable car ride to fully experience the charm of nature.

Changchun World Sculpture Park: This is a comprehensive park integrating natural scenery, cultural landscapes, and art exhibitions. The park houses works by sculptors from all over the world, allowing you to experience the perfect fusion of art and nature while strolling through it.

Frozen (Winter Limited Edition)

Winter in Changchun is a paradise for ice and snow enthusiasts. Changchun Ice and Snow World (usually held near Jingyuetan or in a separate venue) attracts countless visitors with its massive ice and snow sculptures and diverse ice and snow entertainment programs. In addition, there are several ski resorts nearby, such as Jingyuetan Ski Resort and Lianhuashan Ski Resort, offering fun for both beginners and experienced skiers. Experiencing the unique Northeastern activities of ice lanterns, snowmobiling, and dog sledding will create unforgettable winter memories.

A genuine Northeastern Chinese culinary journey

When you come to Changchun, how can you not taste the authentic Northeastern cuisine?

• Sweet and sour pork: a classic Northeastern Chinese dish that's crispy and delicious – a must-try!
• Three Treasures of the Earth: A perfect combination of potatoes, eggplant, and green peppers, a home-style dish that is delicious.
• Pork stew: A winter specialty, it is made by stewing pickled cabbage, blood sausage, pork belly and other ingredients. It is steaming hot and has a rich and mellow flavor.
• Northeastern barbecue: various meat skewers, seafood, and vegetables, served with special sauces, offering a unique flavor.
• Dumplings: a staple food and a way to entertain guests in Northeast China, with rich fillings and delicious flavor.
• Northeastern-style cold noodles: A smooth and chewy cold dish with a delicious sour and spicy flavor.

In food streets such as Guilin Road and Hongqi Street, you can find a variety of authentic snacks and restaurants, and deeply experience the food culture of Northeast China.

Must-visit areas recommendation

Historical and cultural district

• The Puppet Emperor's Palace Museum: A Deep Dive into That Unique Period of History.
• Eight sections: Appreciate the unique architectural complexes and historical features.
• Cultural Square: In the heart of the city, feel the pulse of Changchun.

Natural ecological area

• Jingyuetan National Forest Park: Suitable for hiking, cycling, skiing, and sightseeing all year round.
• Changchun World Sculpture Park: A perfect blend of art and nature.

City life and food

• Guilin Road: One of the most bustling food streets in Changchun, it brings together a variety of snacks and trendy shops.
• Hongqi Street Wanda Plaza/Eurasia Mall: A complex integrating shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Xootour In-Depth Travel Recommendations

Xootour encourages you to explore Changchun in a deeper and more personalized way. In addition to traditional attractions, we recommend:

• Explore old neighborhoods: Discover old buildings and shops hidden in the corners of the city and experience the everyday life of Changchun.
• Experience handicrafts: Participate in some intangible cultural heritage handicraft experiences, such as paper cutting and dough sculpting, and make a souvenir that belongs to Changchun by hand.
• Night tour of Changchun: Take a sightseeing bus to admire the city lights under the night sky, or experience Changchun's nightlife in the bar street.
• Themed Photography: Capture Changchun through your lens with themes such as movies, cars, historical buildings, or ice and snow.

Changchun, a city full of stories, awaits your arrival. Join Xootour for an unforgettable journey through northern China!