Dunhua

Dunhua, located in the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture of Jilin Province, China, is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Once the capital of the Balhae Kingdom, Dunhua offers travelers a unique blend of cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. The city is renowned for its historical sites, including ancient tombs and Buddhist monuments, as well as its picturesque surroundings, such as the Changbai Mountains. Ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers, a visit to Dunhua can be comfortably enjoyed over a 3-4 day itinerary.

Travel Tips in Dunhua

• Best time to visit: Dunhua experiences a four-season, monsoon-influenced, humid continental climate. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are long and very cold. Spring and autumn are brief, with moderate rainfall. The annual mean temperature is 3.8°C, with January averaging −16.2°C and July 20.2°C. The best time to visit is during late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

• How to get there and get around: Dunhua is accessible by train, bus, and car. The Dunhua–Baihe high-speed railway, operational since December 2021, connects Dunhua to Changbaishan, facilitating travel within the region. Within the city, taxis and buses are available for transportation. It's advisable to have a local SIM card or a translation app to assist with communication.

• Safety: Dunhua is generally safe for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay vigilant in crowded areas to avoid petty theft. Be cautious when hiking in mountainous regions, as trails can be steep and challenging.

• Local customs, language, etiquette: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but Korean is also widely spoken due to the city's Korean heritage. Basic Korean phrases can be helpful. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove shoes when entering temples. It's customary to greet with a slight bow or handshake.

• Must-know practical advice: Some attractions may require advance booking, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to check the official websites or contact local tourism offices for the latest information. Be mindful of environmental conservation efforts; avoid littering and respect local wildlife.

Highlights & Things to Do in Dunhua

• Liuding Mountain Scenic Area: Located 5 km south of Dunhua, Liuding Mountain is a historical site and tourist attraction. The mountain consists of six separate hilltops, with the highest reaching 603 meters above sea level. A 48-meter statue of the Buddha is situated on one of the peaks, facing south. The area also features ancient tombs from the Balhae kingdom, including the tomb of Princess Zhenhui, and a large monastery. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Bohai Lake Park: A scenic park offering stunning lake views, a vibrant night market, and various water activities. It's an excellent spot for relaxation and experiencing local culture. (aiyoutravel.com)

• Zhongcheng Korean Ethnic Ecology Village: Experience traditional Korean culture and lifestyle in this village. Visitors can explore ancient courtyards, try local cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Participating in photo sessions allows visitors to feel like a Korean princess. (aiyoutravel.com)

• Bei Shan Park (Northern Mountain Park): Offers panoramic views of Dunhua from the hilltop, which hosts a Revolutionary Monument. A small funfair and an open cemetery are located at the base of the hill. (north-korea-travel.com)

• Local Cuisine: Dunhua offers a variety of local dishes, including mutton soup with bean noodles, niangpizi (a type of cold noodle dish), and apricot peel water, a local specialty drink. These dishes provide a taste of the region's culinary heritage. (chinaxiantour.com)

Prices & Costs in Dunhua (approximate in USD)

• Accommodation (per night, double):

  • Budget: $20–$40
  • Mid-range: $40–$80
  • Luxury: $80–$150

• Food:

  • Street/local meal: $3–$5
  • Mid-range restaurant: $10–$20
  • Daily basics: $10–$15

• Transport:

  • Local rides: $1–$3
  • Taxis: $5–$10 per ride
  • Airport/destination transfer: $10–$20

• Main attractions/entry fees:

  • Liuding Mountain Scenic Area: $12
  • Bohai Lake Park: Free
  • Zhongcheng Korean Ethnic Ecology Village: Free

• Daily budget range (excluding travel to the city):

  • Budget traveler: $30–$50
  • Mid-range traveler: $50–$100
  • Luxury traveler: $100–$200

Note: Prices can vary by season and lifestyle.