Jingyuetan National Forest Park
Jingyuetan National Forest Park, a pristine ecological gem nestled in Changchun, Jilin Province, is renowned as a "Green Pearl" in Northeast China. Established in 1989 and spanning 96.38 square kilometers, the park blends lush forests, serene lakes, and cultural heritage into a harmonious retreat. Designated a national 5A-level tourist attraction, it hosts over 3 million visitors annually, offering a sanctuary for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
HistoricalBackground
1934: Originally a royal hunting ground during the Manchukuo period, it later evolved into a forest reserve.
1989: Officially designated as Jingyuetan National Forest Park, emphasizing ecological conservation.
2000s–2020s: Developed into a multifunctional destination with eco-tourism, winter sports, and cultural events, including the 2007 Asian Winter Games cross-country skiing venue.
2019: Recognized as a national ecological education base, promoting sustainable tourism.
StructuralLayout
The park’s landscape is divided into three zones:
ForestZone: Covering 80% of the area, it features mixed coniferous-broadleaf forests with 550 plant species, including rare red pines and Manchurian ash.
LakeZone: Centered around the crescent-shaped Jingyue Lake, it offers boating, fishing, and lakeside trails.
CulturalZone: Highlights include the Beidaihe Villa (a historic Manchukuo-era residence) and the Forest Bathing Trail, designed for wellness activities.
MajorAttractions
JingyueLake: A 4.3-square-kilometer freshwater lake surrounded by wetlands, ideal for birdwatching (over 120 species recorded).
VasilyevskyHill: A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the lake and forest.
WinterSportsCenter: Home to international-standard ski slopes and the annual Jingyuetan Ice and Snow Festival.
ForestEcologyMuseum: Interactive exhibits on biodiversity and climate resilience.
SuggestedItineraries
Half-DayTour
Morning: Explore the Forest Bathing Trail → Visit the Forest Ecology Museum.
Afternoon: Boating on Jingyue Lake → Hike Vasilyevsky Hill.
Highlights: Nature immersion and cultural insights.
Full-DayTour
Morning: Skiing/snowboarding at the Winter Sports Center → Lunch at a lakeside restaurant.
Afternoon: Tour the Beidaihe Villa → Stroll the Wetland Boardwalk.
Evening: Attend a folk performance (seasonal).
Highlights: Adventure, history, and local culture.
Two-DayTour
Day1: Forest exploration and lake activities.
Day2: Winter sports (winter) or cycling (summer) → Camping at the designated eco-campground.
Highlights: In-depth engagement with nature and outdoor recreation.
TicketPurchase
Online: Book via the official park website or WeChat mini-program (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance; prices vary seasonally.
Prices:
○Standard Entry: ¥30 (peak season)/¥20 (off-season).
○Winter Sports Pass: ¥150–300 (includes equipment rental).
○Guided Tours: ¥100–200 (1.5-hour English/Chinese tours).
Free Admission: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and seniors over 70.
Transportation
BySubway: Line 3 to Jingyuetan Station, then a 10-minute shuttle bus.
ByBus: Routes 102, 120, or 160 to Jingyuetan Park Stop.
ByTaxi: Direct to "Jīngyuètán Guójiā Sēnlín Gōngyuán" .
Parking: Ample spaces (¥5/hour); electric vehicle charging stations available.
BestTime&Tips
AvoidCrowds: Peak Hours: 10 AM–1 PM (weekends/holidays).
○Best Times: Early morning (7–9 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM).
QuietestDays: Weekdays (closed Mondays in winter).
Weather: Spring/autumn for mild temperatures; winter for snow activities.
Essentials:
○Download the Park App: For real-time maps and event updates.
○Wear Layered Clothing: Temperatures vary significantly by season.
○Pack Snacks: Limited dining options inside the park.
○Photography: Allowed (no drones); sunrise/sunset over the lake is spectacular.
○ProhibitedItems: Pets, open fires, and littering.Jingyuetan National Forest Park offers a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets cultural vibrancy, inviting visitors to reconnect with the environment and explore Northeast China’s rich heritage.
