Autumn at Changbai Mountain is the ultimate romance for fall viewing in Northeast China

Who understands! The autumn of Changbai Mountain turns the northern landscape into a fairy tale. The mountains are covered with red maples and golden birches intertwined, paired with the year-round snow on the summit. Every snapshot is a masterpiece that can blow up your social media feed. This trip is worth savoring for a whole year!

Must-know before the trip: Transportation and Tickets

• Choose the right transportation to save time and avoid fatigue: For a balance of cost and convenience, fly to Changchun Longjia Airport, then take a 2.5-hour high-speed train directly to Changbai Mountain Station; for convenience, choose Changbai Mountain Airport, which is closer to the West Slope, so you can start your autumn viewing right after landing.

• Get tickets in advance: During peak season, be sure to book in advance on the official "Changbai Mountain" WeChat account. It’s recommended to buy the "ticket + shuttle bus" combo to avoid queues and save time for enjoying the scenery.

Best time to see autumn colors: Don’t miss the brief golden peak

Late September to early October is the golden period for autumn scenery at Changbai Mountain. The colorful leaves layer upon layer, beautifully vibrant and pure. However, the peak autumn colors last only about ten days. Check the official red leaf updates before you go, and plan a 3-4 day trip to deeply explore the core scenic areas and visit nearby towns along the way.

3-day classic itinerary: Experience the best of Changbai Mountain’s autumn

• Day 1: North Slope classic route, must-visit landmarks
Head straight to the "soul" of Changbai Mountain — Tianchi (Heaven Lake). It’s best to start early; whether you see it depends on the weather. On clear days, the blue lake reflects the snowy mountains, and every photo is stunning. Then visit the 215-meter-high Changbai Waterfall, where the rushing water is magnificent. When tired, relax at Julong Hot Spring. Don’t miss the hot spring-boiled eggs, 3 for 10 yuan, with tender whites and runny yolks—a unique flavor of Changbai Mountain. Finally, stroll around Green Pool and the Underground Forest to see the pool reflecting colorful leaves and hear the autumn wind in the woods—healing and relaxing.

• Day 2: West Slope off-the-beaten-path route, discover quiet and beautiful hidden spots
Compared to the North Slope, the West Slope is more tranquil in autumn. First visit the Alpine Garden (though no flower sea in autumn, the golden meadows are stunning), then hike to Wangchi Lake along the wooden boardwalk through a golden forest sea, with snowy mountains as the backdrop—every shot is atmospheric. In the afternoon, check out Jinjiang Grand Canyon, where colorful forests and strange rocks line the canyon, showcasing nature’s craftsmanship. The hiking experience here is top-notch.

• Day 3: South Slope + surroundings, encounter borderland charm
The newly opened South Slope is a must-visit this year! The views are more spectacular, offering a more complete panorama of Tianchi, with fewer people so you can enjoy the scenery in solitude. In the afternoon, head to Changbai County to visit Korean ethnic villages. Dress in traditional costumes for exotic photos, and try horseback riding through the forest sea to immerse yourself in autumn romance.

Photo tips: Easily capture stunning autumn shots

1. Tianchi Viewing Platform: Use a telephoto lens to capture people with the snowy mountains and lake in the frame for a grand effect;

2. Julong Hot Spring: The misty hot spring combined with golden leaves creates a natural "fairy" filter, making every photo beautiful;

3. Mountain Ring Road: Use a drone to shoot the S-shaped road winding through colorful forests for a breathtaking aerial view;

4. Underground Forest: Shoot upward to capture sunlight filtering through golden leaves, creating a rich atmosphere;

5. Outfit suggestions: Wear white or red clothes to stand out against the colorful leaves. Remember to accessorize with scarves and hats for practicality and photogenic looks.

Local experiences: Feel the authentic life of Changbai Mountain

Stay a night at a hot spring hotel with a window view of endless forests. Soaking in the hot spring while watching autumn scenery is so relaxing you won’t want to leave. Be sure to try Northeast-style iron pot stew, served with a ring of corn cakes that soak up the savory broth—unforgettable flavor. Pair it with local blueberry juice for a refreshing finish. You can also stay in a Korean ethnic guesthouse, learn to make kimchi with the host, wear traditional costumes for photos, and experience unique local customs.

Practical tips: Make your trip smoother

1. The summit is windy with big temperature differences; even in autumn, bring a down jacket or windbreaker to avoid catching a cold;

2. Mountain roads may be covered with fallen leaves, so wear non-slip shoes; UV rays are strong, so sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. The mountain area is dry, so don’t forget moisturizing skincare products;

3. Tianchi often closes due to weather, so check the forecast before departure and allow flexible time;

4. Some areas in the park have unstable signal, so carry some cash for emergencies.

They say everyone should visit Changbai Mountain once in a lifetime, but autumn at Changbai Mountain is worth visiting countless times. Tag someone you want to watch the autumn scenery with and put this romantic autumn trip on your schedule!