Located in northeast China's Jilin province, this modern industrial center houses China's first film studio and the former palace of Puyi, China's last emperor. The city's universities and mountain scenery draw visitors year-round.
Changchun, the capital of Jilin Province, is a major industrial center in northeastern China with over 6 million residents. Walk through the pine forests of Jingyuetan National Forest Park, watch film productions at the historic Changchun Film Studio, or explore the research laboratories at Jilin University. The city's automotive industry, led by Volkswagen and Toyota manufacturing plants, drives its modern economy.
Getting Around Changchun
The city's public transport network includes over 250 bus routes and a light rail system. From Changchun Longjia International Airport, 31 kilometers northeast of the city center, you can reach major domestic and international destinations. Four railway stations connect you to nearby cities - reach Harbin in 3 hours or Shenyang in 2 hours.
Weather and Seasonal Activities
Changchun's climate shifts dramatically through the year. Summer temperatures climb to 36°C with regular rainfall, while winter temperatures fall to -25°C with dry conditions. Every apartment includes underfloor heating for the cold months. Spring and autumn are short transitions with mild temperatures.
Exploring Jingyuetan National Forest Park
This 5,000-hectare artificial forest is China's largest planted woodland. Walk or cycle the trails through pine and birch trees, or spend time by the 7-kilometer lake at the park's center. In winter, you can ski the cross-country trails where the annual Vasaloppet China competition takes place.
Academic Life and Research
Twenty-seven universities make up Changchun's academic community of 160,000 students. At Jilin University, you'll find cutting-edge automotive engineering and chemistry research labs. Northeast Normal University focuses on education and environmental studies. These institutions have helped Changchun rank among the world's top 40 cities for scientific research in the Nature Index 2020.
Markets and Shopping Districts
Browse Gui Lin Road's markets for local produce, clothing, and crafts, where local tailors create custom suits using traditional techniques. Modern shopping centers like Ou Ya and Wanda Plaza fill the newer commercial areas. Try northeastern Chinese dishes in city center restaurants - look for di san xian (stir-fried potato, eggplant, and pepper) and guo bao rou (sweet and sour pork).
Cultural Scene
At the 70-year-old Changchun Film Studio, you can watch active movie productions. The annual Changchun Film Festival brings new releases to theaters across the city each summer. Listen to electronic music at converted industrial venues or attend classical performances at the Jilin Province Concert Hall.