Hey everyone, Mark here! I'm back with another incredible adventure, this time taking me deep into the heart of China’s unique cultural landscape: Yanji, the capital of Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture in Jilin Province. This is a place few Westerners explore, and I'm thrilled to share my experiences with you. Get ready to discover a fascinating blend of Korean and Chinese cultures, delicious food, and stunning scenery!
A Glimpse into Changbai Korean Autonomous County: A Border Town with a Story
Before diving into Yanji, I spent two days in Changbai Korean Autonomous County, a 335-kilometer journey away. This town sits on the border with North Korea, offering breathtaking views of Huishanshi across the Yalu River. I’ve already shared my North Korean border experiences in a previous video, but let me tell you, the Chinese side holds its own charm.
I stayed in a surprisingly comfortable room for just $9 a night, complete with a hot shower, toilet, and fresh towels. The natural light flooding the room was a delightful bonus.
Culinary Adventures in Changbai: Halibut Dumplings and More!
Lunch was a local specialty: halibut dumplings. A generous half-pound portion cost me only $3. The dumplings were served with what I presume was a garlic-based dipping sauce, but the strong halibut flavor and abundant garlic weren't quite to my taste. Still, the portion size was impressive!
The restaurants along the street all displayed bilingual signs in Korean and Chinese, though I found the area surprisingly quiet. Maybe it was just the halibut.
Cultural Immersion: Korean Language and Local Life
One thing that struck me immediately in Changbai is the prevalence of the Korean language. Older residents primarily spoke Korean in their daily lives, a factor contributing to many of their children finding work in South Korea. This linguistic landscape gave the town a unique atmosphere.
Many official and business signs are in both Korean and Chinese, a testament to the region's cultural duality. I also noticed a palpable sense of reserve among some residents, possibly due to the proximity to the border and the visible emphasis on national security (I saw banners urging citizens to protect state secrets).
Exploring Changbai's History and Scenery
Changbai's attractions are relatively few, but the Millennium Cliff City Scenic Area is a must-see. Even the government building signs were bilingual, reflecting the area's linguistic duality. I explored the Tashan Gold Furnace Ruins and the Revolutionary Martyrs' Memorial, a poignant reminder of the region’s history in the Anti-Japanese War and the Korean War.
The local market was a highlight, offering a vibrant display of fresh produce, including unique mountain goods only found in this region of the Changbai mountain range. I even tried some local fruits, like the round date (similar in texture to kiwi) and the South Korean pear.
Changbai County Quick Facts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Area | Over 2,500 square kilometers |
| Population (2020) | Approximately 75,000, with 16.7% being Korean |
| Border Length | 260.5 kilometers with North Korea |
| Notable Feature | Only Korean Autonomous County in China; largest Korean population outside Yanbian |
Yanji: The Heart of Korean Culture in China
From Changbai, I headed to Yanji, the bustling capital of Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture. This city is considered one of the cradles of Korean culture in China, with a significant Korean population (around 30%). Korean is an official language here, and the city plays a key role in Sino-Korean border trade.
My accommodation was a comfortable river-view apartment overlooking the Bulhatong River (meaning "many willows" in Manchu) for approximately $13 a night, offering a serene setting for my stay.
Yanji's Culinary Delights: Stone Pot Bibimbap and More!
Yanji is a foodie's paradise, offering an incredible array of authentic Korean dishes. I indulged in stone pot bibimbap, a flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and meat, served sizzling hot. The meal came with an array of side dishes and a refreshing barley tea, offering excellent value for money at just $4. I'll be sharing more about Yanji's culinary scene in my next video!
Exploring Yanji: Public Transportation, Bilingual Signs, and Hidden Gems
Throughout Yanji, I was consistently struck by the bilingual signage, often in Korean and Chinese. Even the public buses had announcements in Korean, a first for me in mainland China. This reinforced the strong Korean cultural presence in the city. I visited Yanji University, where I observed the vibrant student life and a unique "Instagrammable" wall that has become a popular spot for photos.
I also spent time at the Yanbian Korean Folk Custom Park, a captivating place showcasing traditional Korean architecture, crafts, and rural life. This park is another example of the region’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage.
Yanji Real Estate Market Insights
While exploring Yanji, I came across some real estate information: the average price of used apartments was around $700-800 per square meter, while new apartments were priced between $800 and $900 per square meter. Nearer to the river, prices escalated to $1,100 to $1,700 per square meter.
Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking
My journey through Yanji and Changbai Korean Autonomous County was an eye-opening experience, showcasing a unique blend of cultures and captivating landscapes. It's a destination that truly deserves to be explored and is a testament to China’s diverse cultural tapestry. I highly recommend adding it to your Asia travel bucket list!
