Yichun | Lesser Khingan Mountains

Yichun's Lesser Khingan Mountains is a renowned forest ecotourism destination in northern China, famous for its virgin Korean pine forests, distinct four-season landscapes, and abundant outdoor activities. Here's a detailed travel guide for you: --- **1. Best Time to Visit** - **Spring-Summer (May-Sept)**: Ideal summer retreat with lush greenery, perfect for hiking and river rafting (Tangwang River, Dafeng River). - **Autumn (Late Sept-Early Oct)**: Forests transform into a painter's palette with Korean pines, birches, and maples—prime time for photography. - **Winter (Dec-Feb)**: Snow-covered forests offer skiing (Riyuexia Ski Resort), snowmobiling, and other winter sports. --- **2. Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Wuying National Forest Park** - Highlights: Asia's largest virgin Korean pine forest; walk wooden trails through ancient trees; climb "Guantao Tower" for panoramic views. - Tip: Squirrels here are friendly—bring nuts to interact. 2. **Tangwang River Forest & Stone Scenic Area** - Highlights: Unique rock formations like "One-Line Sky" and "Arhat Turtle," great for geology enthusiasts. - Activities: Riverside hikes; summer rafting. 3. **Maolangou National Forest Park** - Known as the "Jiuzhaigou of the North," featuring waterfalls, deep pools, and vibrant autumn colors. 4. **Shangganling Xishui National Park** - Peaceful birch forests and wetlands, ideal for camping and cycling. 5. **Jinshan Deer Park** - Spotted deer and elk roam freely in meadows and forests, with Japanese-style gardens perfect for photos. --- **3. Unique Experiences** - **Forest Train**: Ride a vintage steam train in Wumahe District through the woods (summer only). - **Blueberry Picking**: Harvest local blueberries in July-Aug (farms in Youhao and Dailing areas). - **Oroqen Culture**: Learn about ethnic traditions and birch-bark crafts in Jiayin County. --- **4. Transportation Guide** - **Getting There**: - Flights: Yichun Lindu Airport (direct flights from Beijing, Harbin). - Train: ~4hrs from Harbin (recommended: K7127). - **Local Transport**: - Attractions are spread out; consider chartering a car (~¥300-500/day) or self-driving (check rentals in advance; some areas have weak signals). - Buses serve nearby spots like Wuying and Tangwang River. --- **5. Accommodation Tips** - **Downtown**: Near Yichun Station (e.g., Yichun Ginza Hotel) for convenience. - **Near Attractions**: - Wuying/Tangwang River: Forest homestays (e.g., "Songyunju") for morning birdsongs. - Luxury option: Baoyu Longhua Hot Spring Resort (forest retreat with hot springs). --- **6. Food Recommendations** - **Local Specialties**: - Wild mountain veggies: Aralia shoots, ferns (best in spring). - River fish feast: Heilongjiang wild fish (sturgeon, carp) in Jiayin. - Pine nut cakes: Great souvenirs made from Korean pine seeds. - **Restaurants**: "Shanzhenge" (wild mushroom hotpot) and "Laoyuweng" (stewed fish) in downtown Yichun. --- **7. Important Notes** 1. Bug spray: Essential in summer; wear long sleeves. 2. Temperature swings: Bring layers even in summer; winters can hit -30°C. 3. Eco-friendly: No picking plants; pack out trash. 4. Safety: Follow trail markers; avoid unmarked areas. --- **8. Sample Itinerary (3D2N)** - **Day1**: Downtown → Wuying National Forest Park (stay in Wuying). - **Day2**: Tangwang River Scenic Area → Maolangou (stay in Tangwang River). - **Day3**: Jinshan Deer Park → Return downtown (buy souvenirs). --- Yichun is best enjoyed at a slow pace, perfect for nature lovers. Extend your trip north to Jiayin for dinosaur fossils or winter’s Kurbin ice rime. Check weather forecasts—happy travels! 🌲🚂⛰️⛰️