The Ultimate Guide to Changchun Jingyuetan: Enjoy Year-Round Fun in the "Largest Man-Made Forest Sea"

Jingyuetan, known as the "backyard garden" of Changchun, boasts the most soothing natural scenery in Northeast China! Whether it's hiking through lush forests in spring and summer, admiring the vibrant autumn foliage, or reveling in winter snow festivities, this place never fails to delight. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering routes and activities—follow it for a perfect trip! 📍Essential Info: Must-Read Before You Go! - ⏰Opening Hours: Open year-round, 6:00 AM–9:00 PM (some winter activities close earlier; arrive before 4:00 PM). - 🎫Ticket Prices: - Adults: ¥30/person - Students (with ID) & seniors aged 60–65 (with ID): Half-price at ¥15 - Free for seniors over 65 and children under 1.2m - 💡Tips: Buy tickets in advance via the official "Jingyuetan Scenic Area" WeChat account for quick QR code entry. Arrive early during peak seasons (holidays/school breaks) to avoid crowds. 🌲Must-Visit Spots: Where Nature Meets Culture 1. **Goddess of Jingyue Square** - The iconic landmark at the main gate features a pristine goddess statue amid flower beds. Morning light casts a magical glow—perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. 2. **Bisong Jingyue Tower** - The 13-story tower, the area’s highest point, offers panoramic views (¥10 entry). From the top, gaze at the mirror-like lake surrounded by layers of pine and larch forests, especially stunning in autumn. 3. **Taiping Bell Tower** - A 37.8m-tall tower commemorating Jilin’s forest fire safety. Visit at dusk to hear its resonant bells echo through the woods, paired with sunset hues. 4. **Lotus and Willow Garden** - A summer highlight! Stroll wooden pathways past lotus ponds and willow trees, with wild ducks gliding by. Best for photos in July–August. 5. **Jingyuetan Dam** - Offers sweeping views: shimmering water on one side, endless forests on the other. Autumn foliage here looks like a painted masterpiece—visit at sunset. 6. **Vasa Museum** - A niche museum dedicated to cross-country skiing, showcasing gear, photos, and trophies. Free entry (closed Mondays); visit in winter for full immersion. 7. **Forest Bathing Trail** - A "natural oxygen bar" with pine-scented air and wooden walkways. Ideal for leisurely walks and birdwatching. Rest pavilions dot the trail. 🎡Seasonal Activities: Fun All Year Round! 🌟**Summer (June–August)** - **Lakeside Cycling**: Rent bikes (¥20–30/hour; ¥300 deposit) for the 23km loop past lakes, forests, and blooms. E-bikes recommended for beginners. - **Boat Rides**: Cruise the lake (¥40/person, 30 mins) for breezy views; sunset rides are magical. - **Hiking**: Try the 5km "Forest Bathing Trail → North Putuo Temple" route—spot squirrels and rabbits (no feeding!). ❄️**Winter (December–February)** - **Skiing**: Jingyuetan Ski Resort has slopes for all levels. Coaches cost ~¥200/hour. Warm up with hot drinks afterward. - **Ice Fun**: Try ice bikes or sleds (¥30/hour) on the frozen lake—great for kids and photos. - **Vasa Ski Festival**: Every January, watch skiers race through snowscapes (free to spectate; arrive early). ⛳️**Year-Round** - **Golf**: Practice swings (¥50/30 balls) or play 18 holes amid forest views. 📝Recommended Itineraries 👉**First-Time Visitors** Main Gate → Goddess Square → Lotus Garden (summer) → Bike around the lake → Bisong Tower → Bell Tower → Forest Trail → Vasa Museum → Exit. 👉**Hikers’ Route** Main Gate → Dam → Forest Trail → North Putuo Temple → Deer Park (feed deer, ¥20/food) → Return by shuttle (¥10/stop). 👉**Winter Special** Ski Resort → Ice activities → Lunch at ski lodge → Bell Tower (snow photos) → Vasa Museum → Sunset at the Dam. 🍜Eat, Stay, Travel - **Stay**: Few options inside; try Nan’guan District (10km away, Metro Line 3). Hotels like Jinji (¥400/night) or homestays (¥200–300) work well. - **Eat**: - Inside: Snack stalls (corn, sausages, ~¥10) or ski resort’s Northeast dishes (¥50/person). - Outside: "Old Changchun Restaurant" (5km away) for local favorites like pork with pickled cabbage (~¥60/person). - **Transport**: - Metro: Line 3 to "Jingyue Park Station," 10-min walk to gate. - Bus: Routes 102/120/160 to "Jingyuetan Main Gate." - Drive: Park at "Jingyuetan Lot" (¥5/hour; arrive early in peak season). 💡Pro Tips: 1. Wear comfy shoes—you’ll walk 10,000+ steps! Summer: sunscreen/bug spray; winter: thermal wear (temps hit -20°C). 2. Skiing? Pack gloves/goggles. Rent snow gear (¥50/set) if needed. 3. Spring/fall winds are strong—bring a jacket. Forest temps vary. 4. For crowd-free photos, visit at 7–8 AM or 4–5 PM. Whether escaping city life or embracing Northeast China’s seasons, Jingyuetan delivers! Bookmark this guide for a seamless adventure. ❄️🌲