Ji'an Voyage Tips and guide

This page describes a city in Jilin Province. It should not be confused with the city of the same name in Jiangxi Province.

Ji'an (集安 Jí'ān) is in Jilin province in north east China. It is on the banks of the Yalu River which forms the North Korean border; the Korean city of Manpo is across the river.

Ji'an was once the capital of the Goguryeo Kingdom (37 BCE–668 CE) which ruled a large chunk of Korea, and there is a UNESCO World Heritage Site titled Capital Cities and Tombs of the Ancient Koguryo Kingdom. All its parts are in or around Ji'an, and they are the region's main tourist attractions.

As early as the 1st century BC, shortly after the founding of the Goguryeo Kingdom, a capital city was established in what is now Ji'an, historically known as "Guongnae City." For a considerable period, this area served as both the royal capital and the military and political center. It wasn't until the 5th century CE that Goguryeo moved its capital to Pyongyang, but the Ji'an area remained an important secondary capital and royal burial ground.

Today, numerous Goguryeo-related relics can still be seen in and around Ji'an, including city ruins, stone tablets, and a large-scale royal mausoleum and aristocratic tombs. These sites are widely distributed and relatively well-preserved, leading to their inclusion in the World Heritage List in 2004, making Ji'an one of the cities in Northeast China with outstanding historical value.

Unlike many ancient cities that have been "tourist-ized," Ji'an retains the daily life of a border town. Historical sites are often adjacent to residential areas; this feeling of "the ruins being within the city" is what makes Ji'an truly unique.

The best time to visit is autumn: specifically from mid-September to mid-October. The sky is a clear, bright blue, neither too hot nor too cold—a light jacket is just right. The trees on the mountains are a breathtaking mix of yellow, red, and green, like a painting. Visiting during this time is perfect for exploring historical sites, strolling along the river, or climbing Wunü Peak—it's all incredibly pleasant.

Summer (June-August): is also possible, but be prepared for two things: heat and rain. July and August are particularly humid, and the rain is unpredictable, often just showers. The advantage is that the Yalu River is especially cool, and the greenery is at its lushest. Remember, always carry an umbrella.

Winter (November-March):is truly cold; the wind feels like knives on your face. The river freezes over, creating a stunning white border landscape. However, if you're sensitive to the cold or prefer outdoor attractions, this season can be quite harsh, and many places are inconvenient to visit.

Spring (April-May): comes late, the wind is strong, making people's hair fly wildly, and it's quite dry. It's not until May that the flowers and plants truly flourish.

42.047733125.7334691 Tonghua Sanyuanpu Airport (通化三源浦机场), ☏ +86 435 1234567, toll-free: +86 435 1234567. This airport is a 4C-class regional airport, which opened to traffic in 2014. It has a 2,500-meter runway, a terminal building with an area of ​​approximately 3,000 square meters, and a designed annual passenger throughput of 400,000. It offers direct flights to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Qingdao, making it an important air gateway to Ji'an. (updated Dec 2025)

• 41.133909126.1988912 Ji'an Railway Station (集安站), ☏ +86 435 12306, toll-free: +86 435 12306. Ji'an Station is the terminus of the Meiji Railway. Built in 1939, it is a first-class station. The station has 2 platforms, 5 arrival and departure tracks, and the station building has a floor area of ​​approximately 2,000 square meters.This station is one of the important border stations connecting China and North Korea by rail, with daily trains to and from Tonghua, Shenyang, and other destinations. (updated Dec 2025)

• 41.776206125.9157543 Tonghua Railway Station (通化站), ☏ +86 435 12306, toll-free: +86 435 12306. Tonghua Station is a first-class station, located at the intersection of the Shenyang-Jilin Railway and the Meizhou-Jilin Railway. The station has 5 platforms, 12 arrival and departure tracks, and a station building area of ​​approximately 12,000 square meters. Multiple daily trains connect to Changchun, Shenyang, Beijing, Dalian, and other destinations, allowing transfers to Ji'an. (updated Dec 2025)

• 41.133909126.1988914 Ji'an Passenger Transport Center (集安客运中心站), ☏ +86 435 6221234, toll-free: +86 435 6221234. This station is a major highway passenger transport hub; it operates approximately 150 daily departures, covering major cities within and outside Ji'an Province, including Tonghua, Changchun, and Shenyang, and also provides tourist bus routes to various scenic spots in Ji'an. (updated Dec 2025)

• 41.133909126.1988915 Ji'an International Bus Terminal (集安国际客运站), ☏ +86 435 6225678, toll-free: +86 435 6225678. It is mainly responsible for cross-border highway passenger transport between China and North Korea, and operates regular bus services from Ji'an to Manpo in North Korea. It also provides chartered bus services for tourists traveling to places such as Changbai Mountain and Dandong. (updated Dec 2025)

Ji'an has a limited number of bus routes, but they generally cover the train station, city center, and some major attractions. The buses are mainly regular city buses, with relatively low frequency; waiting times may be longer outside peak hours. If your itinerary is relatively fixed, it can be a good supplementary mode of transportation.

Taxis are plentiful and one of the most convenient ways to get around the city. Short trips within the city are common, and prices are generally low. They are time-saving when traveling to the train station, hotels, or scattered historical sites. For tourists unfamiliar with the routes, taking a taxi is more convenient than transferring to a bus.

Ji'an city center is suitable for walking, especially along the Yalu River, in residential areas, and around some historical sites. Walking allows you to experience the daily life of this border town more directly and makes it easier to adjust your route on the fly.

The city roads are relatively flat, and some sections are suitable for cycling. If you have a longer stay, renting or bringing your own bicycle is comfortable for exploring the riverside. However, when visiting the burial sites outside the city, it is still recommended to combine it with taxis or other transportation.

• 41.1656126.15861 Wandu Mountain City (丸都山城, 환도산성). Ruins of the second capitol city of the Korean Goguryeo Kingdom (updated Feb 2016)

• 41.156944126.1872222 Capital Cities and Tombs of the Ancient Koguryo Kingdom. 40 tombs from the Korean Goguryeo kingdom period (updated Feb 2016)

• 41.125126.0533 Tomb of the General (将军冢, 장군총). Although disputed, this large pyramid is considered to be the royal tomb of either King Gwanggaeto or his son King Jangsu of the Goguryeo kingdom. (updated Sep 2019)

• 41.156889126.1819724 Stele of King Gwanggaeto (好太王碑). (updated Dec 2025). Stele of King Gwanggaeto, erected to commemorate King Gwanggaeto of Goguryeo, is one of the important existing stone carvings in Ji'an. The stele is large, and its inscription mainly records the military activities and expansion of the regime at that time. Currently, protective facilities surround the stele, allowing visitors to view it from a certain distance. Even without carefully reading the inscription, its sheer size and condition convey its historical significance.

• 41.122361126.1829175 Tombs of Goguryeo Nobles (高句丽贵族墓群). (updated Dec 2025)The Tombs of Goguryeo Nobles Numerous Goguryeo noble tombs are scattered in the suburbs and surrounding areas of Ji'an. These tombs vary in style; some retain traces of murals, while others are primarily stone mounds. The tombs are mostly scattered in mountainous or gentle slope areas, making them suitable for combined visits with other attractions such as the General's Tomb. However, some locations are relatively remote, so advance route planning is necessary.

• 39.4357123.35596 Yalu Riverbank (鸭绿江沿岸). (updated Dec 2025)The Yalu Riverbank is the most accessible and best place in Ji'an to slow down. The riverside walkway offers expansive views, with clear visibility of the North Korean villages on the opposite bank. This isn't a traditional "tourist attraction," but it vividly reflects Ji'an's geographical location as a border city and its daily life, becoming relatively quiet in the evening.

In Ji'an, itineraries usually don't need to be packed; it's more suitable to take your time, explore, and adjust as you go.

• 41.15126.181 Ji'an Gaojuli Relics Park (集安高句丽文物古迹公园), ☏ ➕ 86 435 6222345Phone with wrong formatCountry code missing, toll-free: ➕86 435 6222345Phone with wrong formatCountry code missing. 08:30–17:00 (Peak season, April-October), 09:00–16:30 (Off-season, November-March).. This is an important part of the World Heritage Site "Coguryo Royal Cities, Tombs and Tombs of Nobles," including the General's Tomb, the Stele of King Gwanggaeto, and the Gungnae Fortress. The park features exhibition halls, a protected area, and walking trails, systematically showcasing the history and culture of Goguryeo. 70 (all-inclusive ticket). (updated Dec 2025).

• 41.13126.172 Ji'an Museum (集安博物馆), Near the intersection of Jianshe Street and Yunshui Road, Ji'an City, Tonghua City, Jilin Province (777 Wenhua Road (Take Ji'an Bus Route 2 or 5 to "Museum" stop)), ☏ ➕86 435 6223456Phone with wrong formatCountry code missing, toll-free: ➕86 435 6223456Phone with wrong formatCountry code missing. 09:00–17:00 (Closed on Mondays). The museum houses and exhibits a large collection of artifacts from the Goguryeo period, including murals, pottery, and weapons, providing a comprehensive introduction to Goguryeo history and culture through physical objects, models, and multimedia presentations. The permanent exhibitions are divided into sections such as "Goguryeo History," "Funerary Art," and "Daily Customs." Free (tickets available upon presentation of ID card). (updated Dec 2025)

• 41.13126.1753 Ji'an Border Riverside Walk (集安边境江滨步道), The Yalu River shoreline (accessible on foot from the city center along Yalu River Road) (The banks of the Yalu River (accessible on foot from the city center along Yalu River Road)). Open all day. The trail runs along the Yalu River, the border river between China and North Korea, offering panoramic views of the North Korean landscape. Viewpoints, rest pavilions, and informational signs are located along the way. At night, the trail is illuminated, making it ideal for walking, cycling, and sightseeing. free. (updated Dec 2025)

• 41.141126.1564 Wunvfeng National Forest Park (五女峰国家森林公园), Wunüfeng National Forest Park is located beside National Highway 303, approximately 21 kilometers from Ji'an City. (You can take a tourist bus from Ji'an Passenger Transport Center Station to "Five Women Peaks", the journey takes about 40 minutes.), ☏ +86 435 6688111, toll-free: +86 435 6688111. 08:00–17:00. The park is renowned for its unique peaks, beautiful waters, and forest landscapes. Major attractions include the Five Maidens Peak, canyon waterfalls, and forest trails, making it a great destination for hiking, photography, and nature observation. The autumn foliage is particularly spectacular.The scenic area is named "Five Maidens Peaks" and consists of five main peaks: Heavenly Maiden Peak, Jade Maiden Peak, Beautiful Maiden Peak, Spring Maiden Peak, and Ginseng Maiden Peak, with the highest peak reaching an altitude of approximately 1,337 meters. 80. (updated Dec 2025)

Yajiang Valley Ice Wine is produced in the Yalu River Valley of Ji'an, Tonghua, Jilin Province, a region renowned as the core production area of ​​"Tonghua for Chinese ice wine, and Ji'an for Tonghua ice wine." The winery is nestled against Changbai Mountain and faces the Yalu River, its unique geographical and climatic conditions providing a natural advantage for producing high-quality ice wine.

Ji'an cuisine is mainly Northeastern home-style cooking, characterized by generous portions and strong flavors.

• Korean hot pot：

Korean Hot Pot is a very representative hot dish in Ji'an, its name originating from the Goguryeo culture. It's typically heated over charcoal or an alcohol stove, with sliced ​​meat, vegetables, and bean products placed in the pot, and eaten while still heating. The flavor is savory and salty, suitable for sharing among many people, especially popular in cooler weather. Locally, it's more like a family or friends' gathering.

• Korean-style grilled meat：

Influenced by Korean dietary habits, Ji'an's grilled meat primarily uses beef or pork belly, grilled directly over charcoal. Compared to modified chain grilled meats, the seasoning here is simpler, emphasizing the natural flavor of the meat. It's usually served with lettuce, garlic slices, and sauces, a common dining style in border areas.

• Stone pot bibimbap：

Stone pot bibimbap is common in Ji'an, often featuring a Korean flavor. Rice, vegetables, and meat are cooked together in a stone pot, resulting in a crispy crust at the bottom. It's then served with chili sauce and mixed well, offering a rich flavor. Compared to standardized urban preparations, the ingredients here vary more seasonally.

• Elm bark cold noodles：

Elm bark cold noodles are a distinctive local dish in Northeast China. Some noodles incorporate elm bark powder, giving them a more chewy texture. Typically served with cold broth, chili sauce, and simple side dishes, it's more common in summer, offering a refreshing flavor and a distinct local character.

• Ji'an rice wine：especially the Korean rice wine, is a gem of the local culinary culture, renowned for its unique sweet and sour taste and low alcohol content. Many stalls sell freshly made rice wine at affordable prices; a 2.5L container costs about 25 yuan.

• Ji'an Ice Grape Juice：a beverage hailed as "liquid ruby," is a specialty product of Ji'an City. Using a "post-snow pressing" process, the grapes are naturally frozen in sub-zero temperatures before pressing, maximizing the concentration of the grapes' flavor and nutrients.

Accommodation options are mainly concentrated in the city center, ranging from budget hotels to high-end hotels. Most are located along the Yalu River or near cultural relics sites, and transportation is convenient.

• Ji'an Yingbin Hotel (Reference Price: 80-120 RMB) is located on Shengli West Road in Ji'an City, near Ji'an Railway Station. It offers shared bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and luggage storage. Public transportation is conveniently located nearby.Suitable for backpackers, students, or short-term visitors on a tight budget.

• Ji'an International Hotel (Reference Price: 300-450 RMB) is located at No. 99 Yalu River Street, in the core river scenic area. It offers free breakfast, parking, and meeting rooms. Some rooms offer views of the North Korean landscape across the river.Suitable for most tourists, with complete facilities and convenient location.

• Ji'an Yalu River Peninsula Hotel (Reference Price: 800-1500 RMB) is located in the scenic area along the Yalu River. It is a garden-style five-star hotel equipped with a swimming pool, Chinese and Western restaurants, a spa center, and a private river-view terrace. Suitable for families or business travelers seeking a comfortable experience.

42.047733125.7334697 Tonghua Sanyuanpu Airport (通化三源浦机场). (updated Dec 2025) Tonghua Sanyuanpu Airport approximately 100 kilometers from Ji'an City. The airport has routes to and from major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

Transportation from the Airport to Ji'an: Take the airport shuttle bus to Tonghua Bus Station, then transfer to a long-distance bus to Ji'an (approximately 2 hours).

41.133909126.1988918 Ji'an Railway Station (集安火车站). (updated Dec 2025)

Located on Shengli West Road in the city center, it serves regular trains to and from Tonghua, Shenyang, Changchun, and other cities. The journey from Tonghua to Ji'an takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, making it a convenient option for a leisurely trip to enjoy the rural scenery along the way.

41.133909126.1988919 Ji'an Bus Terminal (集安客运总站). (updated Dec 2025) Ji'an Bus Terminal (located on Jianshe Street in the city center) has frequent buses to cities such as Tonghua, Changchun, Shenyang, and Dandong. Buses from Tonghua to Ji'an depart approximately every 40 minutes, the journey takes about 2 hours, and the fare is about 35 yuan.

• Dandong (Liaoning province):

China's largest border city, facing Sinuiju, North Korea, across the Yalu River. Visitors can tour the Broken Bridge over the Yalu River, the Memorial Hall of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea, and take a boat trip for a close-up view of North Korea.

• Changbai Mountain west slope (fusong county):

Starting from Ji'an, travel via Tonghua to the Changbai Mountain West Scenic Area to view Tianchi Lake and Jinjiang Grand Canyon.

• Changchun:

The capital of Jilin Province, home to attractions such as the Puppet Emperor's Palace Museum and Changchun Film Studio. In winter, you can enjoy rime ice, and in summer, Songhua Lake offers beautiful scenery.