Tonghua Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Tonghua

Trending in Tonghua

View more

About Tonghua

-5℃

Recommended length of visit

2-3 days

Local currency

CNY

Must-visit attractions in Tonghua

Looking for things to do in Tonghua? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.

View more

Best Things to Do

Fall Viewing

Recommended stays in Tonghua

Discover the most popular places to stay in Tonghua, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers

View more

Must-try food in Tonghua

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Tonghua dishes and foodie spots.

View more

Quick bites

Barbecue

Bakery

Recent events and experiences in Tonghua

View more

Tonghua itinerary ideas

View more

Ji'an 2-Day Trip: Echoes of the Goguryeo Kingdom

2 Days
  1. DAY01Donggou Ancient Tombs GroupGuonei CityGoguryeo Ruins Park
  2. DAY02Koguryo Kingdom Relics Park scenic area
View more

Jilin 3-Day Trip: Forest Trails and Borderland Echoes

3 Days
  1. DAY01Jiguan Mountain National Forest Park
  2. DAY02Mei Xiaoye Starlight Flower SeaNortheast Nightless City
  3. DAY03Koguryo Kingdom Relics Park scenic areaYalu River National Gate Scenic Area
View more

Meihekou 2-Day Trip: Forest Trails and Floral Escapes

2 Days
  1. DAY01Mei Xiaoye Starlight Flower SeaMeihekoushi Zhangbai Mountain Botanical Garden
  2. DAY02Jiguan Mountain National Forest Park
View more

Traveller photos and experiences

View more
AI generatedAI summary

Tonghua travel guide and discussion

Heritage focus: Many visitors rate Ji’an’s Goguryeo Heritage as Tonghua’s most substantial stop, with the General’s Tomb and the Haotaiwang Stele the essential pair; paths are mostly flat and a local guide helps the stones make sense. Light is better after 3 pm and indoor galleries stop admission around 4 pm; avoid buying “excavated” souvenirs at the gates. Seasonal flowers: Travelers consistently call out two bloom windows—May at the free Jinjiang Flower Sea near Tonghua (moss phlox and tulips), and mid‑June to early July when rapeseed fields along the Yalu River turn gold near Ji’an. Some report a second wave from late July into August and an early‑September tail; golden hour and pale outfits photograph best, and boardwalks keep you off the mud. Pace and routing: A common 2–3‑day rhythm gives Ji’an a full day for heritage, another for the fields, and slow Yalu riverside walks at dusk. Self‑drive is strongly recommended (you can even drive into the Jinjiang flower area), taxis work for short hops, and public transport is limited. City and low‑key picks: In Tonghua city, Longxingli Cultural Town is a free, retro “Republic‑era” streetscape many use for night photos. For a quick nature break, the free Hani River bend 15 minutes north offers clear water, forest shade and easy roadside stops. Good to know: Border checks around Ji’an are strict—carry ID and skip drones; riversides and fields have mosquitoes, noon sun is harsh, and some paths lack lighting after dusk. At the Goguryeo sites, IDs may be checked and museum admissions close earlier than you think. What to eat: Many recommend Ji’an’s Gaoli Hot Pot (“fire‑pan”)—beef, tofu and glass noodles simmering together—plus Korean cold noodles as a cooling staple. Portions are generous and prices moderate, making it senior‑friendly.

Based on real traveller posts
I was inspired to visit Arxan last year and was determined to go this year, but then I saw the flight prices for the National Day holiday... — traveler post in Tonghua

I was inspired to visit Arxan last year and was determined to go this year, but then I saw the flight prices for the National Day holiday...

Actually, at the beginning of the trip, I was still thinking about the Arxan "Swiss rolls," but I later realized that the autumn scenery here is definitely not just a substitute! Colorful forests, maar lakes, alpine meadows, and Changbai Mountain Heaven Lake—the scenery is so diverse that you won't get tired of it, and the food is delicious too 😋. 🚙 Our original road trip itinerary was as follows: Day 1: Changchun – Sihailongwan Maar Lake (Longwanqun National Forest Park) Day 2: Linjiang Valley Day 3: Changbai Mountain West Slope Day 4: Changbai Mountain South Slope Day 5: Erdaobaihe Town Jiuxi Tingquan Scenic Area / Lushuihe National Forest Park Day 6: Erdaobaihe Town – Changchun In practice, we had to make adjustments because the Changbai Mountain scenic area was closed. We went to Erdaobaihe first and then to the South Slope, which added a bit of a detour 🧭. 🍁 Sihailongwan Maar Lake: Standing on the observation tower, I saw the earth as it originally was ✨ A maar lake is a special type of volcanic crater lake formed by a steam explosion caused by the mixing of groundwater and magma 🌋. Longwanqun National Forest Park includes several scenic areas: Dalongwan, Sanjiaolongwan, Sihailongwan, and Diaoshuihu, with some distance between each. Sihailongwan is a newly opened scenic area this year, with an admission ticket of 49 🎫. There is an observation tower inside where you can see the panoramic view without a drone, which is why we chose Sihailongwan! As a newly opened scenic area, the facilities are not quite perfect, but the scenery is truly beautiful 🏞️. 🍁 Linjiang Valley: When alpine meadows meet maple valleys, it's exactly what a kid from the south imagines autumn to be 🍂 Admission ticket is 50. The scenic area is only accessible by self-driving, and it was really crowded during the National Day holiday, so I recommend entering the scenic area before 8:00 AM ⏰. We arrived at the entrance at 10:00 AM and waited for over an hour to get in 😅. 🍁 Changbai Mountain Heaven Lake: Even after seeing many beautiful sights, Heaven Lake is still breathtaking 🏔️ Check the weather forecast when planning your trip ☀️. You really need a bit of luck to see Heaven Lake—of course, we saw it twice, haha 🤭. The West Slope was very crowded during the National Day holiday, while the South Slope was less crowded and offered a much better experience. 🍁 Erdaobaihe Town Jiuxi Tingquan Scenic Area: We originally planned to go rafting at Lushuihe National Forest Park, but we gave up after hearing that the lines were very long 🏊‍♂️. Jiuxi Tingquan is about a 10-minute drive from town, and the admission ticket is 68. It wasn't crowded, and the scenery was quite nice—the sunset over the snowy cabins and the tranquility of the mountains made it feel as if the whole world had gone quiet 🌄. ⚠️ Also, it gets dark really early in Northeast China in the autumn. The sun starts to set after 3:00 PM, and it's completely dark by 5:30 PM. Driving at night is difficult 🚗, so it's best to head out early in the morning!

You know what I mean!! Autumn in Northeast China is just breathtaking — traveler post in Tonghua

You know what I mean!! Autumn in Northeast China is just breathtaking

It’s home to the Lesser and Greater Khingan Mountains and Changbai Mountain, yet people only think of it in winter. But autumn in the Northeast is truly speechless-level beautiful 🤯 Plus, it’s uncrowded and affordable! Can you believe that the cost of one night in a popular tourist spot can cover a whole week here? 💰 If you’re tired of the crowds at viral photo spots, save this road trip route! Just pull over in any forest, and the whole world is yours 🏔️ 🚙 7-day autumn chasing route: D1 Harbin – Yichun D2 Yichun – Jinshan Deer Park – Daliangzihe Forest Park – Tangwang River – Tangyuan County D3 Tangyuan – Aoqiwan – Hengdaohezi D4 Hengdaohezi – Changbai Mountain Loop – Lushuihe D5 Lushuihe – Songjianghe – Tonghua D6 Tonghua – Benhuan Highway – Qingman Fenglin – Yanghugou – Benxi D7 Benxi – Guanmen Mountain – Shenyang 🍁 Best viewing period: Late September – mid-October Autumn colors don't wait! Hesitate for a few days and the leaves will all be gone 😱 🔻 Yichun Jinshan Deer Park 🔻 The only tourist spot I recommend on the whole trip! You must get there early in the morning! Go before the deer head up the mountain. It’s freezing in the morning 🥶, but seeing the deer in the morning mist makes it all worth it! 🔻 Changbai Mountain North Slope Loop Road 🔻 A stunning section of G331! From Erdaobaihe to Songjianghe, the colorful forests along the way are layered with gold, as rich in color as a palette 🎨 You can also see the snow-capped peak of Changbai Mountain from a distance—you can take blockbuster photos without even entering the scenic area. 🔻 Benhuan Highway 🔻 The legendary China Maple Leaf Avenue!! The best parts are at Qingman Fenglin and Yanghugou; they’re free and even more beautiful than the scenic areas. When the maple leaves turn bright red on both sides of the stream and the colorful forest reflects in the water, it’s truly beyond words 😭 🔻 Heda Highway 🔻 On the way from Songjianghe to Tonghua along G201, I stumbled upon a fairytale-like forest. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, just like walking into a movie scene 🎬 💡 Autumn chasing tips: ✅ Don't go into the scenic areas! They’re crowded and have fewer leaves; aunties pluck the red leaves to make wreaths 😅 ✅ The autumn sun in the Northeast is gentle, perfect for taking photos all day long 📸 ✅ It gets dark after five! Start early while it’s light out! ✅ Self-driving is recommended! The scenery on the road is way, way more beautiful than in the scenic areas. ✅ Be decisive when chasing autumn! If you see fallen leaves, change locations; the autumn colors a few hundred kilometers away might be just right. Autumn in the Northeast is truly stunning and off the beaten path. Go for it before too many people discover it! 🏃‍♀️

Hey everyone! I've found the most beautiful autumn in Jilin — traveler post in Tonghua

Hey everyone! I've found the most beautiful autumn in Jilin

This road trip route is legendary👍🏻 From Changbai Mountain to the border, the maple leaves are stunningly red all the way🍁 🗺️Route: D1️⃣ Arrive at Changbai Mountain Airport – Lushuihe Forest Park (rafting is exciting and fun😆) – Erdaobaihe | 💤 Erdaobaihe D2️⃣ Full day at Changbai Mountain North Slope (Heaven Lake is breathtaking!) | 💤 Erdaobaihe D3️⃣ G331 Chongshan Border Line (the autumn scenery here is incredible, with colorful forests on both sides of the border river🏔️) – Helong | 💤 Helong D4️⃣ Helong – Erdaobaihe (expressway) – G331 and county roads (the Maple Avenue lives up to its name🍁) – Huamei Resort – Linjiang | 💤 Linjiang D5️⃣ Linjiang Huashan Valley (so many maple leaves!) – Sifangshan Maple Valley – Sifangding | 💤 Sifangding Hotel D6️⃣ Sifangding sunrise and sea of clouds🌅 (the 5 AM sea of clouds with the sunrise is amazing!) – Longwan Group (Sanjiao Longwan, Dalongwan, Diaoshuihu Waterfall) – Jingyu | 💤 Jingyu D7️⃣ Jingyu – Maple Avenue (a must-drive for road trippers!) – Shenyang, evening flight to destinations nationwide✈️ 📸Photography tips: ▪️ Sifangshan Maple Valley is incredibly photogenic; the red maples covering the mountains🍁 paired with the distant snow-capped mountains make every shot look like a masterpiece ▪️ Watch the sunrise and sea of clouds at Sifangding in the morning; the mountain cabins look like something out of a fairy tale in the morning light✨ ▪️ The road trip route is full of scenery; stop anywhere and you'll find wallpaper-worthy views 🏔️Special experiences: ▪️ Lushuihe rafting: Rafting in autumn is so refreshing! The colorful reflections in the mountain forests are breathtaking ▪️ G331 Border Line: Mountains on one side and the river on the other; the autumn colors on both banks are beyond words ▪️ Longwan Group: Three volcanic lakes surrounded by maple leaves; it's unbelievably beautiful ⚠️Practical advice: ▪️ Mid-October is the best time, when the maple leaves are at their peak ▪️ There's a large temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a thick jacket ▪️ Be careful on mountain roads when driving, and fill up on gas in advance ▪️ Book the Sifangding Hotel in advance via the app, as availability is limited

Here is autumn,  — traveler post in Tonghua

Here is autumn,

an autumn that belongs to the Northeast🍂 It is the crisp, clear morning after the rain in Laobiangou, Benxi, Liaoning, where the red leaves in the forest are soaked in the morning mist🌫️ It is the sunrise at Wunü Mountain in Huanren, with a sea of clouds surging over the mountains⛰️ It is the Linjiang Valley in Jilin, where a winding road cuts through the colorful valley🛣️ It is the Songhua River Bridge at Huayuankou, Jingyu, a long bridge resting quietly on the Songhua River, known to everyone as the "water highway"🌉 It is also the Sanjiaolongwan in Huinan, a serene, deep blue volcanic lake in the morning light🏞️ At sunset by the snowy cabin, the mountains are so quiet that only the wind can be heard❄️ That feeling of being gently wrapped by autumn, I mean, who gets it!😭 In seven days, rising with the stars and walking through the dew, I captured the mountains, the sea of clouds, the long rivers, and the lake views one by one in my lens📸 Sharing this with you, who happened to come across this note and love the mountains and rivers✨ What does autumn look like through your lens? Have you gone to chase a fairy tale that belongs to autumn this year?🍁

Seriously, autumn in Jilin is breathtaking—every shot looks like a fairy tale! National Day  — traveler post in Tonghua

Seriously, autumn in Jilin is breathtaking—every shot looks like a fairy tale! National Day

📸 [Divine destination recommendations] ✨No. 1 Huamei Resort (p1-5) Top-tier autumn scenery in Changbai Mountain! Manjiang Grand Canyon is truly breathtaking 😱 The best spot is on the bridge leading to the visitor center. You can see the whole canyon, full of vibrant colors. Every shot is wallpaper-worthy! No exaggeration, as an autumn-chaser, I'm officially obsessed 🏆 ✨No. 2 Sifangding Scenic Area (p6-10) The most beautiful ancient tree cluster in Northeast China, it's amazing! Climb the observation tower to take in the panoramic views. Ancient trees towering with gradient autumn leaves—breathtaking 🍂 The downside is you can't drive up; you have to take a shuttle bus. The ticket is a bit pricey at 75, and it's about a 3-hour walk, so travel light~ ✨No. 3 Xianren Valley (p11-13) The "Xinjiang" of Northeast China! Free admission is the best! 🐂🐴 Herds of cattle and horses + vast cedar forests + fairy-tale cabins—it's like walking into Hemu Village! But the road up is gravel, and it takes half an hour to drive there, but it's totally worth it! ✨No. 4 Benhuan Highway (p14-16, recommended arrival Oct 7) Navigate to "Qingman Fenglin," but don't drive into the scenic area! When you see cars parked along the road, that's the spot! Red maples + clear streams, the whole screen is cinematic 🍁 ✨No. 5 Tiechang Line (p17-18) A hidden gem of an autumn scenic road! Drive south from Jianchang Town all the way to Kuandian. It's over 90 km and takes 2 hours. There's almost no traffic, and the whole way is full of surprises! 🚙 🗺️ [Complete 8-day itinerary] D1 Changchun → Sifangding Scenic Area → Jingyu County D3 Jingyu County → Lushuihe National Forest Park → Huamei Resort → Songjianghe Town D4 Songjianghe Town → Xianren Valley → Linjiang City D5 Linjiang City → Ji'an City (G331) D6 Ji'an → Qinghe Maple Leaf Valley → Donglai Township → County Road 040 → Tonghua City Tongjiajiang Tourist Resort D7 Tonghua City → Hualai Town → Benhuan Highway → Tiechang Line → Kuandian County D8 Kuandian County → Shenyang 📌 Quick tips: The sunset at the snow-view cabins is absolutely stunning, and the quiet mountain atmosphere is top-notch 🌄 Hurry up and go for the National Day holiday to experience the romantic overload of autumn in the Northeast!

2-day historical tour in Ji'an — traveler post in Tonghua

2-day historical tour in Ji'an

🗺️ [How to plan your 2-day trip] Arrive in Ji'an on day 1, see the General's Tomb and the Stele of King Gwanggaeto, and visit Wandu Mountain City in the afternoon. Stay in the county town at night. On day 2, take a walk along the Yalu River in the morning, visit one or two mural tombs, and head back in the afternoon. You can see most of the Goguryeo ruins in 2 days. 🏞️ [Along the Yalu River] Ji'an is located along the Yalu River, with North Korea just across the water. The river surface is often misty in the early morning, and the villages on the opposite bank appear faintly in the mist. There is a walking path along the river. Take a stroll in the evening to watch the sunset and the lights on the other side—it's very peaceful. 🍂 [Autumn in Ji'an] Ji'an is the Little Jiangnan of Jilin. It has a mild climate, and the autumn foliage arrives a bit later than in other parts of the north. In mid-to-late October, the forests in the suburbs turn red and yellow. You can enjoy the autumn scenery while visiting the ruins—it's a win-win. 🥘 [The flavors of Ji'an] Ji'an is close to North Korea, so you can find cold noodles and rice cakes. Restaurants in the county town serve Korean-style cuisine, which is affordable when paired with local barbecue. Chestnuts and grapes are in season during autumn and are sold at roadside stalls. 🍁 [Autumn in Ji'an] Ji'an has one of the mildest climates in Jilin, with autumn arriving late and a long foliage season. Visit the ruins in mid-to-late October, where the red leaves serve as a backdrop, adding a touch of autumn color to the sense of history. 📌 [Practical tips] Many Goguryeo ruins sites sell tickets separately, so check for package deals. There are cultural relic protection requirements for visiting the mural tombs, so please follow the on-site instructions. The urban area of Ji'an is small, but the attractions are scattered, so don't overpack your itinerary. Opening hours are subject to the latest announcements from the scenic spots.

6-Day 5-Night Changbai Mountain Autumn Foliage Trip (October 4) — traveler post in Tonghua

6-Day 5-Night Changbai Mountain Autumn Foliage Trip (October 4)

As autumn deepens, it is the perfect time to head into the mountains. We departed on time at 8:30 AM from the Atour Hotel in Changchun. With the cool mountain autumn breeze, we kicked off our full-day Changbai Mountain autumn foliage tour. It was a three-hour drive heading east, chasing the autumn romance and surprises hidden deep in the Jilin mountains. Our first stop was Diaoshuihu National Forest Park. The autumn colors here were brilliant—reminiscent of Laobiangou in Liaodong, which I visited last year—but with a unique, serene tranquility. Stepping into the forest felt like stumbling into nature's overturned palette. The mountains were ablaze with color, with deep reds, warm yellows, and vibrant greens intertwined, stretching into a vast, colorful forest. A mountain stream gurgled nearby, clear springs trickled over volcanic rocks, and the breeze rustled through the trees, sending leaves dancing. Walking along the trail beside the stream, every step revealed a new autumn scene, every glance felt gentle. The mountain air was refreshing and healing, blowing away all the fatigue of the journey. At noon, we stopped for a simple meal of Northeast-style dumplings. The steaming, homemade, savory flavors warmed both stomach and heart, recharging us for the afternoon. After a short rest, we headed to Longwanqun National Forest Park – Sifangding. Compared to the crowded, trendy tourist spots, this place was exceptionally quiet and uncrowded, allowing us to enjoy the vastness and peace of the forest all to ourselves. We took the scenic shuttle up the mountain, then rode the elevator directly to the 10th-floor observation tower, easily reaching the summit to take in the panoramic mountain views. We were incredibly lucky today, encountering the most healing autumn wonderland at Sifangding. Looking out from the high tower, the mountains stretched out in layers, with clouds and mist gently rolling and flowing between them. A beam of golden light pierced through the thick clouds, softly illuminating the rolling landscape, creating a scene of dappled light and swirling mist. The distant mountains appeared and disappeared in the thin haze, ethereal and magical. Standing there at that height, I felt truly moved and healed, as if I had stumbled into a fairyland on earth. After soaking in the sea of clouds and autumn mountains, we drove another three hours to Erdaobaihe Town and checked into the Regina Hot Spring Hotel on the north slope of Changbai Mountain. We spent the day traversing mountains and taking in the stunning autumn scenery, leaving the evening for pure relaxation. Soaking in a volcanic hot spring washed away the day's fatigue, followed by an authentic Northeast-style bath and massage. Autumn in Changbai Mountain is worth it!

It's the start of autumn todayand myscreen is just filled with all these gorgeous autumn colors❤️ — traveler post in Tonghua

It's the start of autumn todayand myscreen is just filled with all these gorgeous autumn colors❤️

#fallcolors Can you believe it’s already autumn? My feed is basically *overflowing* with jaw-dropping fall colors right now! The most colorful season has landed, and trust me—China in autumn hits totally different. 🎨✨ Forget just the basic brown-and-yellow vibes. Here, you’ll catch layers of color: deep yellows, soft golds, fiery reds, burnt oranges, moody greens, even pops of pink and crimson. China’s autumn palette is basically nature showing off! Since Xiaohongshu lets us share those swipe-all-day photo dumps, here’s my personal gallery of autumn scenes from all across China. Scroll on and let your retinas get *wrecked* by this color explosion:— Jiuzhaigou Five Flower Lake (10.30) 🌏 Jiuzhaigou County, Aba, Sichuan TIP: Visit between September–early November for those epic mirror-like colors! Open 7:00–18:00 daily. Taxkorgan County Golden Grassland (9.30) 🌏 Taxkorgan, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang Best visited late September/early October for that dreamy golden grass under the clearest blue sky. Dandong Tiangiao Gou Colorful Forest (10.15) 🌏 Kuandian, Dandong, Liaoning Known for its bright reds and oranges—open 8:00–17:30. Pro tip: The air here is crisp af! Benxi Laobian Gou (10.12) 🌏 Benxi, Liaoning Stunning layers of color covering the hills. Pack a light jacket—it gets chilly in the evenings. Jiuhong Grassland Scenic Road (10.29) 🌏 Near Tonghua, Jilin Rent a bike for that K-drama autumn romance vibe as you cruise under falling leaves! Open 24/7. Siguniang Mountain Colorful Forest (10.27) 🌏 Xiaojin County, Aba, Sichuan Fresh mountain air + forests ablaze with autumn hues = total bliss. Entry hours: 7:00–18:00. Bazhong Guangwu Mountain Colorful Forest (11.4) 🌏 Guangwu Mountain, Bazhong, Sichuan Super famous for its maple-red forests—catch the best colors from late October to mid-November. Nanjing Meiling Palace Autumn Color Necklace (12.11) 🌏 No. 1-7 Meiling Road, Xuanwu, Nanjing Rows of ginkgo trees turn the whole street into a golden tunnel! Usually pops in mid–late November. Guangzhou Cultural Center Pink Kapok (10.20) 🌏 No. 37, Xianlie South Road, Yuexiu, Guangzhou Not your usual autumn shade—but those pink kapok flowers are a must-see! Center open 9:00–17:00. Huangling Autumn Persimmon Drying (10.6) 🌏 Huangling, Wuyuan, Jiangxi The bright orange persimmons look unreal hanging out to dry—like autumn confetti everywhere! Xi’an Ancient Guanyin Chan Temple Ginkgo (11.1) 🌏 1781 East Huancheng Road, Xi’an Thousands of golden ginkgo leaves blanket this ancient temple courtyard—breathtaking! Suzhou Yipu Three-Color Archway (12.5) 🌏 No. 26, Yipu Road, Gusu, Suzhou Yellows, reds, and greens all collide for the most photogenic archway ever. Gardens open 7:30–17:30. Huqiu Lengxiang Pavilion Maple Leaf Long Stairs (12.6) 🌏 Tiger Hill, Suzhou Climb up the stairs surrounded by red and gold maple leaves—totally worth the workout! — Hey friends from all over the world—come see for yourself! China’s autumn isn’t just pretty, it’s straight-up legendary. Each city brings its own unique fall style, from glacier lakes to golden ginkgos, colorful forests to epic grasslands. Ready to pack your bags? Grab your camera and your comfiest sneakers, and let’s chase autumn together! 🍂📸 #ChinaAutumn #Fal|Colors #ChinaTravel #Jiuzhaigou #AutumnInChina #Ginkgo #MapleLeaves #VisitChina #Fal|Foliage #ChinaDestinations

Tengchong, Ji'an, or Chadong: Which of these three border towns should you choose? — traveler post in Tonghua

Tengchong, Ji'an, or Chadong: Which of these three border towns should you choose?

I often receive direct messages asking, "I want to spend a few days in a small border town. Should I choose Tengchong, Ji'an, or Chadong?" I've visited all three, and their styles are completely different. This article doesn't recommend the "best" one, but rather helps you find the one that's "best for you." Question 1: Where are you departing from Departing from the south → Tengchong. Kunming, Chongqing, and Chengdu all have direct flights to Tengchong Tuofeng Airport. A taxi from the airport to Heshun Ancient Town costs 30 yuan. You can take a high-speed train to Baoshan Station, then transfer to a bus for a 1.5-hour ride to Tengchong, costing 50 yuan. Departing from the north → Ji'an. Ji'an is in Tonghua, Jilin. Take a high-speed train to Tonghua Station, then transfer to reach it. If driving, take the G331 border highway, with the Yalu River scenery accompanying you along the way. Departing from central China → Chadong. Chadong is in Huayuan County, Xiangxi, Hunan. Take a high-speed train to Jishou or Tongren Station, then share a ride for 1 hour directly to the ancient town, costing about 50 yuan per person. If driving, navigate to "Chadong Tourist Center"; parking is 10 yuan per day. Question 2: What kind of trip are you looking for For volcanic hot springs + slow-paced ancient town life → Tengchong Tengchong has 99 volcanoes, over 240 natural hot springs, and the 600-year-old Heshun Ancient Town. Admission to Heshun is 55 yuan, allowing unlimited entry within 7 days. Staying at a guesthouse in the ancient town can also waive the admission fee. At the Rehai Scenic Area, you can boil eggs in the 98°C "Big Boiling Pot" hot spring; 3 eggs cost 10 yuan and are tender and flavorful. At the Volcano Geopark, you can take a hot air balloon to overlook the volcanic cluster for 280 yuan per person (seasonal/peak season only). Heshun Ancient Town itself has zero commercialization, with lotus ponds, ancient houses, and bluestone paths, offering a healing, slow-paced life everywhere. In the early morning, mist drifts over the rice paddies, and in the evening, the sunset reflects on the lotus ponds. It is recommended to spend 1–2 days in the ancient town and stay for one night to experience the morning and dusk. A classic route is Heshun Library > Shuanghong Bridge > Ai Siqi Former Residence > strolling through the alleys > watching the sunset at the lotus pond in the evening. ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls: Don't ride an electric scooter on the ancient town's stone paths; it will be so bumpy you'll question your life choices. The stone paths are slippery during the rainy season, so walk carefully. Ignore private guides on the street; they will take you to jade shops. Don't buy jade on the street randomly. For border scenery + World Heritage sites → Ji'an Ji'an is the most "eclectic" small border town in Northeast China. Across the Yalu River is North Korea, and the Goguryeo ruins are a World Heritage site. The Tomb of King Jangsu is called the "Oriental Pyramid"; the massive stone construction is spectacular, and there are so few tourists that you can quietly walk around it three times. The Gwanggaeto Stele has stood for 1,600 years, and the inscription is still clearly legible. Wunv Peak National Forest Park is 20 km from the city center and has a very high forest coverage rate. We recommend taking the canyon waterfall route, which takes about 2 hours, where you'll practically have the whole valley to yourself. After coming down the mountain, you can go rafting at Yangyushi. This is a border river rafting experience with gentle currents, allowing you to quietly watch the scenery of North Korea on the other side. It's not thrilling, but it's very healing. ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls: It's recommended to hire a guide for the Goguryeo ruins, otherwise it's just a pile of rocks. There is no commercial development inside the Wunv Peak scenic area, so bring your own food. Attractions in Ji'an are scattered, so driving or chartering a car is most convenient. For literary atmosphere + ultimate value for money → Chadong Chadong is the original setting of Shen Congwen's "The Border Town." The entire ancient town is free, with no general admission ticket. The most classic experience is the 2-yuan "pull-pull ferry"—no engine is used; the boatman pulls a steel cable to cross the river, taking 3 minutes to get from Hunan to Hong'an Ancient Town in Chongqing. Standing at the three-province boundary marker, with your left foot in Hunan and your right foot in Chongqing, you can look up and see the mountains of Guizhou, while your phone's location switches back and forth. The ancient town is full of Ming and Qing dynasty stilt houses along the river, with bluestone paths winding along the water. Locals wash clothes and chat by the river, creating an authentic Xiangxi atmosphere. ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls: The stone paths have a lot of moss, so wear flat shoes. There are no hidden costs throughout the trip. Refuse high-priced boat tours solicited on the street and prioritize the official "pull-pull ferry." If you want a quiet getaway, it's recommended to stay for one night; the evening breeze by the river will heal all your fatigue. Question 3: What is your budget Budget 1,000–2,000 yuan → Chadong. A two-day trip costs around 500 yuan. Riverside stilt guesthouses start at 98 yuan, with windows opening directly to the Qingshui River. You can eat well at small riverside shops for an average of 50 yuan per person. Budget 2,000–3,500 yuan → Ji'an. Choose accommodation by the Yalu River or near the morning market. Dining offers great value; for the Korean-style fire pot, a small portion is enough for 2–3 people. Budget 3,000–5,000 yuan → Tengchong. A 4-day, 3-night trip costs 1,800–3,000 yuan per person, excluding major transportation. Chartering a car for 300 yuan a day is the most worry-free option. Accommodation in Heshun Ancient Town guesthouses costs 150–260 yuan per night, and staying there can also waive the 55-yuan admission fee. 📌 Summary in one sentence Want to soak in hot springs and explore ancient towns → Tengchong, want to see border ruins → Ji'an, want to spend the least money and space out for the longest time → Chadong. None of the three towns are large, so 3 days is just right, but each is worth staying an extra day.

Autumn in Jilin is a natural sanctuary for fresh air! — traveler post in Tonghua

Autumn in Jilin is a natural sanctuary for fresh air!

Jilin is truly so refreshing! Jilin Province has a forest coverage rate of 44.3%, and the eastern mountainous areas exceed 85%🌲 Every breath here feels like a spa treatment for your lungs—cleansing, soothing, stress-relieving, and calming! 🍂When autumn arrives, Jilin becomes as beautiful as an oil painting~ These national forest parks are perfect to visit in September! ✅ Lushuihe National Forest Park A natural oxygen bar at the foot of Changbai Mountain. With birch forests intertwined with mineral lakes, the autumn air is filled with the fresh scent of pine needles. Take a deep breath, and your whole chest feels healed✨ ✅ Jingyuetan National Forest Park The ecological green core of the Spring City. Forests and clear waters reflect each other. Walking on the wooden boardwalk, surrounded by the scent of pine and dappled light, it feels like stepping into a fairy tale world🧚 ✅ Longwanqun National Forest Park With a forest coverage rate of over 96%, it is packed with negative oxygen ions! Climb Sifangding to see ancient trees and red maples, visit the Little Jiuzhaigou of the Northeast at Diaoshuihu, and watch waterfalls set against red leaves—it is breathtaking! ✅ Wunvfeng National Forest Park Five peaks stand gracefully. In September, the mountains are a mix of red and green. The eleven-pointed maple leaves are famous far and wide. Walking up the steps, every step is a view, as if you have stepped into a fairy tale world🍁 ✅ Hongshi National Forest Park Forest coverage exceeds 98%! The hundred-mile red leaf corridor surges like a red sea. Take a small train through the forest, climb Wangjiang Pavilion to overlook the mountains and lakes, and visit the Anti-Japanese United Army ruins. Autumn colors intertwine with revolutionary history~ While the autumn breeze is just right, come to Jilin for a forest breath getaway! Surrender your body and mind to the forest, and let nature heal everything💚

What people are saying about Tonghua

Write a review

Yalu River National Gate Scenic Area

This is one of the few national gateway scenic areas in China that simultaneously boasts both railway and highway ports; it's also home to the first crossing point during the Korean War; visitors can see the railway gateway and the former bridgehead ruins, and enjoy panoramic views of Manpo, North Korea, from the riverbank; they can also take a cruise to get a closer look at the opposite bank, creating a strong historical atmosphere.

M39***32M39***32

Koguryo Kingdom Relics Park scenic area

A great place to learn about the history of Goguryeo, including the Stele of King Gwanggaeto, the Tomb of King Jangsu, and Wandu Mountain Fortress. The 5A-level scenic area has good service, but each attraction is somewhat limited, so you'll finish visiting them quickly.

lclmn5431lclmn5431

Zhibei Village

During the National Day holiday, I brought my parents and children to the small town of Meihekou to visit the famous Zhibei Village. When I showed the old houses to the elderly, they were particularly moved. The old objects brought them back a lot of memories.

Anonymous userAnonymous user

Tonghua Wine Underground Cellar

It's great, really great. You can visit on the hour; if you arrive early, they won't let you in. They check your ID at the entrance, and the exhibits are quite good. Lots of liquor! 🪣. The liquor at the entrance is a bit pricey; you can buy a few bottles to try, but for bulk orders, buy online—the prices vary wildly! Worth visiting; antiques and artifacts.

Anonymous userAnonymous user

Wunyu Peaks National Forest Park

It's a 4A scenic area, definitely worth seeing. The people of Ji'an are incredibly hospitable, and the border town is quite clean, tidy, and orderly. The scenery at Wunü Peak is also nice, although it's not yet the season for red maple leaves. The electric cart ride for 30 yuan is definitely worthwhile; it's inexpensive, saves a lot of energy compared to walking the mountain paths, and is very convenient for the elderly.

雪山阿飞雪山阿飞

Wandu Mountain City

You can see a burial complex dating back approximately 1500 years and remnants of city walls from about 1700 years ago, but only the foundations of the palace remain. It seems the view overlooking the burial complex from above the hilltop is currently closed, so without this perspective, the burial complex isn't as spectacular as it appears.

BorussiaDortmundBorussiaDortmund

King Jangsu's Tomb

The "Oriental Pyramid" truly lives up to its name. Very few above-ground structures in China have survived from the 5th century to the present day. It is said that there were once murals there, but they were stolen by criminals.

BorussiaDortmundBorussiaDortmund

Longwanqun National Forest Park of Jilin

I went to Triceratops Bay more than ten years ago. It was very nice, cool, and there were few tourists. I went there again more than ten years later, and there were even fewer people. Why don't people go to such a good place? Changchun is too hot this year. It's so stuffy that I can't live. The whole family came to Triceratops Bay to escape the heat. It's so cool in the woods. The scenic area is not big overall, the road is flat, and there are boats. There are several steep steps. Those who can't climb can choose not to go up. My mother waited for us to get down the mountain. In fact, I feel that going to Triceratops Bay is not for sightseeing, but mainly for the good air and to breathe😃😃😃

天天星星点点天天星星点点

Sifangding Scenic Area of Longwanqun National Forest Park

Sifangdingzi in autumn is truly worth a visit; the scenery is breathtaking, a blend of historical depth and natural beauty, offering a chance to explore its pristine charm. The shuttle bus zips along narrow roads, its swaying from side to side showcasing the driver's skill and years of experience. The driver offers helpful travel advice, and the uncles maintaining order will assist with carrying children—the warmth and hospitality of Northeast China are evident in every detail. Next time, I'd like to stay at a nearby hotel to experience the sunrise and sunset; it would be absolutely stunning.

Anonymous userAnonymous user

Gwanggaeto Stele

In Korea, he was known as King Gwanggaeto. During his reign, Goguryeo expanded in all directions, defeating the Buyeo tribe, Baekje, Later Yan, and Japanese pirates, making Goguryeo a minor hegemon in Northeast China. The difference in burial style between Goguryeo and that of the Central Plains reflects the significant influence of shamanism on Goguryeo's religion at that time.

BorussiaDortmundBorussiaDortmund

Tonghua FAQ

How many days should I spend in Tonghua?

Based on Trip.com user data, Recommended sightseeing time: 2–3 day(s), allowing you to cover the main attractions while enjoying shopping, dining, and other experiences.

What currency is used in Tonghua?

The standard currency in Tonghua is CNY

How do I exchange currency in Tonghua?

Current exchange rate approx.: TRY ≈0.1CNY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.

Destinations near Tonghua

Changbai Mountain travel destination

Changbai Mountain

33% Users' choice

5 hrs 42 mins

Recommended trip: 2–3 day(s)

Yanji travel destination

Yanji

27% Users' choice

4 hrs 36 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Shenyang travel destination

Shenyang

11% Users' choice

3 hrs 6 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Baishan travel destination

Baishan

9% Users' choice

1 hr 6 mins

Recommended trip: 2–3 day(s)

Harbin travel destination

Harbin

6% Users' choice

5 hrs 30 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Dandong travel destination

Dandong

3% Users' choice

3 hrs 48 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Mudanjiang travel destination

Mudanjiang

3% Users' choice

5 hrs 30 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Jilin City travel destination

Jilin City

2% Users' choice

2 hrs 48 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Changchun travel destination

Changchun

1% Users' choice

2 hrs 36 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Hulunbuir travel destination

Hulunbuir

1% Users' choice

5 hrs 6 mins

Recommended trip: 3–5 day(s)