Please, please, an invitation from winter – Southerners, you absolutely must come!

Ice and Snow Fairytale Journey: A Southerner's Winter Adventure at Laolike Lake As a true Southerner, the first time I ever saw snow in my life was at Laolike Lake in Yanbian, Jilin. The moment my feet stepped into this pristine white wonderland, the entire world seemed to fall silent, leaving only the thundering of my heartbeat in my chest. The sight before me instantly transformed this "Southern wolf" into an ecstatic child – an endless snow-covered forest, rime ice hanging from branches like crystal curtains, and snow deep enough to reach my knees, making a delightful "crunch, crunch" sound with every step. I couldn't help but spread my arms and spin wildly in the snow, even secretly licking a bit of snow from a branch like those Southern netizens online. The icy, stinging sensation filled me with pure joy. Must-Visit Spots 1. Lake Heart Wonderland: The heart of Laolike Lake was the highlight of this trip. On a clear day, the rime ice under the blue sky is crystal clear, and the surrounding wild snow is over 1 meter deep, feeling like you're sinking into clouds when you step on it. No filters are needed for photos here; every frame is a masterpiece. 2. Gassho-style Cabins: Located near the scenic area exit, these snow-covered, pointed-roof cabins look like they were plucked straight from a Finnish fairytale. Around 4 PM, during the "blue hour," the warm lights of the cabins begin to glow, and the interplay of light and shadow creates the most photogenic moments. 3. Snowfield Post Station: This is the perfect place for an up-close encounter with reindeer. For 20 yuan, buy some deer food, and the gentle sika deer will approach your palm. With the snow-covered forest as a backdrop, it feels like you've instantly traveled to Northern Europe. Essential Itinerary Efficient One-Day Tour: Depart from Yanji in the morning (2-hour chartered car) → Upon arrival, take a snowmobile directly to the heart of the lake (298 yuan) → Hike 1.5 kilometers to the post station to feed deer → Enjoy lunch at the Snow Country Train Performance Restaurant → In the afternoon, visit the Gassho-style cabins and the Dark River Icefall → Finish the tour before 4:00 PM to avoid the severe cold of sunset. In-Depth Two-Day Tour: Day 1: Depart from Changbai Mountain (1-hour drive) → Full panoramic tour of Laolike Lake → Stay overnight in a scenic area cabin (experience splashing water into ice); Day 2: Head to the adjacent Xueling Scenic Area (15-minute drive) → Return to Yanji to savor Korean ethnic cuisine. Transportation Guide · Chartered Car is Recommended: Yanji to Laolike Lake is about 140 kilometers, a 2-2.5 hour drive. Carpooling costs approximately 150-200 yuan per person. Be sure to choose a vehicle equipped with snow tires. · Self-Driving Warning: Not recommended for those without snow driving experience! Some sections of the road have accumulated snow and ice; safety first. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 1. Cold Protection is Key: The perceived temperature at Laolike Lake is often below -25℃. Essential gear: fleece-lined snow boots (with non-slip soles), wool socks, down jacket, earflap hat, touchscreen gloves. Stick hand warmers on your phone and the soles of your feet. 2. Spending Traps: · The 128 yuan entrance ticket includes basic sightseeing. For additional activities, we recommend only the snowmobile (298 yuan) and feeding deer (20 yuan). · The horse-drawn sleigh (98 yuan) is not cost-effective; hiking offers more beautiful scenery. 3. Time Management: In winter, sunset is at 4:00 PM, and temperatures drop sharply. It's recommended to enter the park by 10:00 AM at the latest to ensure ample daylight for sightseeing. Player's Advice · Signal is weak in the scenic area; download offline maps in advance and save the scenic area's contact information. · When hiking, be sure to stay on the boardwalks; seemingly flat snow surfaces may hide deep holes. · Bring a power bank! Low temperatures can drain phone batteries instantly. To capture enough beautiful photos, keep your devices warm. Average Cost Per Person An economical one-day tour is about 500-700 yuan (including round-trip transportation from Yanji, entrance ticket, 1 paid activity, simple meal); a comfortable two-day tour is about 900-1200 yuan (including accommodation, all experience activities, special meals). My actual cost was 680 yuan, with the snowmobile being the largest expense but absolutely worth it. As I looked back from the departing vehicle, the snow-covered hills and cabins of Laolike Lake gradually faded into the twilight. This ice and snow wonderland not only gave me my first glimpse of snow but also a purification of the soul. A Southerner's obsession with snow was luxuriously satisfied here – it wasn't just a fleeting surprise, but an entire winter fairytale solemnly delivered into my hands. Before leaving, the local guide smiled and said, "Remember this white; it will bring coolness to every hot summer ahead." Indeed, recalling it now, my heart is still filled with the cool, snowy hues.