
Wangqing, located in the northeastern part of Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province, is the province's second-largest county and one of the birthplaces of Korean folk culture. Its songs and dances are highly representative, and the traditional Korean dance, known as the "Elephant Hat Dance," has become a living calling card for Wangqing County.
Wangqing has the characteristics of "vast waters, secluded mountains, beautiful forests and beautiful snow". It was named "China Korean Expo City" by the main leaders of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission. Every scenic spot in the scenic area displays the cultural customs of the Korean ethnic group and is of great tourism value.
Temperate continental windy climate, best for travel in summer
Mantianxing National Forest Park
Wangqing County Museum
Jianshan Battle Site Monument
About 1 day
Wangqing County (汪清县) lies in southeastern Jilin, under Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture. Its name “Wangqing” comes from the Manchu language, meaning “fortress.” Historically, the area witnessed conflicts (e.g. Wangqing Battle in 1929) between local Chinese forces and Soviet troops in the Northeast region. Also, it is home to resistance / guerrilla bases active in the Anti-Japanese period (e.g. Yao Yingzi base) and figures such as Tong Changrong who was martyred here. In modern times, the county combines rich forest resources, ethnic Korean and Chinese culture, border terrain, natural conservation zones, and forest tourism.
Wangqing is in southeastern Jilin province, in the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, China. The county seat is Wangqing Town (汪清镇).
How to get there:
Specific opening hours are not consistently documented for many of Wangqing’s scenic sites. For example, 满天星风景名胜区 (Mǎn Tiān Xīng Scenic Area) is a provincial scenic area, with operations depending on local management.
Best times to visit: late spring through early autumn (May to October) for forests, lakes, greenery, mild weather. In winter, snow activities (e.g. Penglai Ice & Snow World) are possible but other nature access may be limited. Also autumn for foliage. Avoid deep winter for general sightseeing in forests unless equipped.
The 满天星 Scenic Area charges around ¥95 for entry (as seen in listings). Some local attractions (education center, historical sites) may have small or no fees. Many rural or village attractions are free or charge local fees. Tickets are generally bought offline at entrances; some may allow online purchase or local tourism platforms.
In general, advance booking is not mandatory for most sites under normal visitation. However, in peak season, special events or winter snow-resort attractions (e.g. ice & snow world) may require reservation. It’s prudent to check and book 1–3 days in advance during holidays.
To see the main scenic areas (满天星, forest reserve, canyon, historic sites), 2 to 3 full days is reasonable. For a shorter visit, 1 full day may cover the nearest scenic area plus local spots.
There is no widespread documentation of audio guides or multilingual tours at these sites. Local guided tours in Chinese are more likely. For historical or patriotic sites, some explanatory signage or local guide assistance may be offered. It’s advisable to inquire locally in advance.
Photo-worthy spots include: the lake area and forest edges in 满天星 Scenic Area, forest canopy gaps, canyon viewpoints in Lānjiā Grand Canyon, scenic overlooks in the nature reserve, the border view at Tumen Gate, and sunrise/sunset over forests or waters. Also the “Wanghong Wall” and mountain ridge parks provide interesting vantage for urban + natural contrast.
Suggested route:
Wangqing is relatively low in tourism traffic compared to major Chinese destinations. The least crowded times are weekdays outside holidays, in late spring or mid-autumn. Peak times are national holidays and weekends, and during winter for snow attractions.
Main scenic areas like 满天星 likely have visitor facilities: toilets, rest areas, snack kiosks. Rural and remote areas may have limited facilities, so bring water, snacks and basic supplies when venturing farther.
Many scenic sites have varying terrain. For elderly and children, easy access areas near lakes or parks are manageable. But steep trails, forest paths or canyon areas may be challenging. Accessibility for disabled visitors may be limited in remote natural areas; check locally for accessible paths.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and bank cards are widely accepted in China’s attractions, especially in towns. In remote rural areas or small vendors, cash is more reliable. It’s advisable to carry some RMB cash.
In Wangqing town and scenic zone entrances, local restaurants serve Korean-Chinese cuisine, snack bars, coffees and small eateries. In scenic zones, there may be lakeside or forest lodge restaurants or snack kiosks.
Vegetarian / vegan options (simple vegetable dishes, tofu, soups) are likely available in local Chinese / Korean restaurants. Halal options are less certain unless a Muslim-orientated restaurant exists; check locally.