Name: Mudanjiang

Chinese name: 牡丹江

Province: Heilongjiang

Status: Prefectural City

Population: 965,154 inhabitants

Area: 2,495 km²

Mudanjiang is the third largest city in the province of Heilongjiang at the far north of Chine. Neighbour to Harbin and bordered by Russia to the east, Mudanjiang attracts thousands of Chinese and international visitors each year for its enchanting mountains and lakes.

A trip to Mudanjiang holds one primary appeal: visiting Jingpo Lake and the surrounding forests.

History

Mudanjiang, also called Mudan Ula by the Manchus, means "River Meander." The city was inhabited by the ancestors of the Manchus over 2,300 years ago.

During the Tang Dynasty (618–907), the city was administered by the government, which enabled it to develop into an influential zone for the rise of the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911).

Today

Mudanjiang is renowned across Chine as a city beneath the snow. Located north of Changbai Mountain, Mudanjiang boasts complex terrain and varied landscapes with a river running through it from south to north. Its rich and diverse scenery makes it an important tourist destination in Heilongjiang.

The city itself lacks major attractions, but it serves as a pleasant base for exploring the surrounding forests, mountains, and lakes.

The primary draw is Jingpo Lake, which captivates countless travelers each year with its clear and crystalline waters. This lake has become a highly sought-after summer resort during the warm season for its unique landscape and the pure air that surrounds it. To attract increasing numbers of visitors annually, approximately fifty hotels line the shore, and numerous activities are offered to fully appreciate the richness of the area.

The underground forest, 50 km from Jingpo Lake, offers a magnificent hiking experience through lush vegetation. It stands out for the fact that its trees, primarily pines, have thrived within volcanic craters formed nearly 10,000 years ago.

Climate

Surrounded by mountains, Mudanjiang enjoys a temperate continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. The average annual temperature is approximately 3.9°C.

Summers are warm and sunny, while winters are bitterly cold with snow and average January temperatures of −17°C.

The best seasons to visit Mudanjiang are summer and autumn when it is relatively warm. However, those who appreciate snow will discover a breathtaking landscape. Nevertheless, you should plan on bringing very warm clothing to protect yourself from the biting cold.

Air

Hailang Mudanjiang Airport is the province's second-largest airport. It operates flights with Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Harbin, Tianjin, Dalian, and other major cities in Chine.

A few international flights serve Mudanjiang from South Korea and Russia.

Train

Mudanjiang Railway Station is a major hub in southeastern Heilongjiang. It sits at the intersection of the Harbin–Suifenhe, Mudanjiang–Tumen, and Mudanjiang–Jiamusi rail lines.

Direct trains connect Mudanjiang to Beijing, Tianjin, Dalian, Shenyang, and Harbin.

Long-distance bus

Mudanjiang benefits from practical and well-developed roads, making it easy to reach by bus from Harbin, Jilin, Changchun, and Dunhua.

Buses shuttle between Mudanjiang and Jingpo Lake or the underground forest.

What to do in Mudanjiang?

• Marvel at the stunning clarity of Jingpo Lake's waters.
• Enjoy the pure air on a hiking adventure through the underground forest.