Tumen Port: A Poetic Sentinel on the China-North Korea Border

On the banks of the Tumen River, there lies a land sculpted by history and nature, where stands the important land port between China and North Korea—the Tumen Port. It serves not only as a bridge for economic exchange between the two countries but also as a bond of cultural and emotional integration, carrying countless stories and memories. Tumen Port, the name itself carries a sense of historical weight. It is located in Tumen City, Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province, on the left bank of the lower reaches of the Tumen River, facing the Namyang International Port of North Korea across the river. Here, the majestic mountains and the murmuring river complement each other, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. Entering Tumen Port, the first thing that catches the eye is the time-worn national gate. It is not only the demarcation line between China and North Korea but also a symbol of the friendship between the peoples of the two countries. Standing in front of the gate, looking at Namyang County in North Korea, a sense of transnational emotion spontaneously arises. The houses there, though small, carry the shared memories and dreams of the people of both countries. Strolling along the border, one can see the ancient bridge between Tumen and Namyang. This bridge has witnessed a century of friendly exchanges and shared hardships between China and North Korea. Beneath the bridge, the Tumen River flows quietly, as if whispering the deep affection and friendship between the peoples of the two countries. And on the bridge, trains roar by from time to time, carrying goods and hopes of both nations, shuttling between the two countries, conveying messages of peace and development. Around Tumen Port, there are many attractions worth visiting. For example, the Sunlight Mountain Forest Park, with its overlapping mountains and shaded green trees, is an excellent place to experience the beauty of nature. From the top of the mountain, the beautiful scenery of both China and North Korea is in full view, offering a refreshing and uplifting experience. Another example is the Tumen Sculpture Park, where many sculptures showcase the culture of the Tumen River and the art of the Korean Chinese, allowing visitors to appreciate art while feeling the rich cultural heritage. Moreover, Tumen Port is a place filled with humanitarian care. The soldiers at the border inspection station here stand guard day after day, defending the dignity and security of the nation with their youth and blood. They are not only 'guardians of the national gate' but also protectors of the friendship between the peoples of the two countries. The residents of Tumen City also express their love and pride for this land in their own ways. They are hospitable and helpful, making every visitor feel the warmth of home. Tumen Port, the poetic sentinel of the China-North Korea border, tells the stories and emotions between the peoples of the two countries in its own way. Here, you can feel the weight of history and the charm of culture; here, you can appreciate the natural scenery and the uniqueness of the border; here, you can experience the warmth and care between people. This is a land worth exploring, understanding, and cherishing.