Straddling the border between China and North Korea, Changbai Mountain’s highest peak in China, Baiyun Peak, reaches 2,691 meters. A dormant volcano, it is famed for Heaven Lake—the world’s highest volcanic crater lake—vast virgin forests, rare flora and fauna, and deep cultural ties to the Manchu people.

As the source of the Songhua, Tumen, and Yalu Rivers, Changbai Mountain boasts a complete ecosystem and serves as a critical habitat for endangered species like the Amur tiger and leopard, earning it the nickname “three-dimensional treasure trove” and “species gene bank.” Its volcanic landscape is striking, featuring waterfalls, hot spring clusters, and volcanic canyons like the Grand Canyon. Culturally, it is regarded as the birthplace of the Manchu people and a sacred mountain for the Korean ethnic group, revered as a “holy site” during the Qing Dynasty and placed under imperial protection for over 200 years.

The mountain is accessed via three main scenic areas in China: the North Slope (earliest development, with bus access to Heaven Lake, waterfalls, and hot springs), the West Slope (requires climbing 1,442 steps for a full view of Heaven Lake, with alpine gardens in summer), and the South Slope (most pristine and open). Weather around Heaven Lake changes rapidly, and clear views depend on luck. The best times to visit are summer (July–August for cool weather and scenery) and autumn (September for colorful foliage). Winter (November–March) transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing and hot springs. Key transport hubs are Changbai Mountain Airport and towns like Songjianghe (West Slope) and Erdaobaihe (North Slope).