Things To Do
in Dunhua

Dunhua is a charming city located in Jilin Province, China, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. Nestled in the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, it serves as a hub for Korean culture and traditions. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures, making it an attractive destination for travelers.

With its friendly locals and vibrant community, Dunhua provides visitors with a warm and welcoming experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Dunhua Confucius Temple, an important historical site that reflects traditional Chinese architecture and philosophy.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, such as the Dunhua Market, where you can find unique handicrafts and sample local street food.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local Korean BBQ restaurant, followed by a stroll through the vibrant streets to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a scenic hike at the nearby Changbai Mountain range, where you can enjoy stunning views and the natural beauty of the region.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Dunhua River Park, perfect for a relaxing afternoon picnic or leisurely walk along the riverbank.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local teahouse, enjoying traditional tea and snacks while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
🚕Taxi ride (5 km)$2
Coffee at a cafe$3
🍺Beer at a bar$4
🛍️Souvenir shopping$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine with unique flavors.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Public transport can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Some areas may be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我想要这个。" - I would like this.
  • "多少钱?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Dunhua

Visit one of these nice places.

Dunhua Confucius Temple

A beautifully preserved temple that offers stunning architectural details and serene surroundings.

Changbai Mountain

Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, perfect for capturing nature photos.

Dunhua River Park

Features picturesque river views and lush greenery, ideal for scenic shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dunhua

Dunhua is a culinary delight, particularly known for its flavorful Korean dishes and local delicacies that reflect its cultural heritage.

Dunhua Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kimchi

A traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, often served with every meal.

Must-Try!

Bulgogi

Marinated beef grilled to perfection, commonly enjoyed in BBQ restaurants.

Jajangmyeon

Noodles topped with a savory black bean sauce, a popular dish in Korean cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dunhua Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, street food, and local snacks.

Night Food Street

A vibrant street filled with stalls offering delicious street food options, perfect for late-night munching.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dunhua experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), providing great conditions for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are mild, characterized by blooming flowers and colorful foliage, respectively.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it's customary to greet them first.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Politeness in Conversation

Use polite language and gestures when interacting with locals; greetings are important.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dunhua is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are available, and it's wise to have a local contact for assistance if needed.

Tipping in Dunhua

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in Dunhua, but rounding up the bill in restaurants is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are very popular among locals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather with occasional rain; perfect for hiking but be prepared for sudden showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, offering beautiful landscapes for photography.

Winter

Cold weather with snow, ideal for winter sports and experiencing a picturesque snowy landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Dunhua at Night

Dunhua's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring various karaoke bars, nightclubs, and tea houses. Popular among locals, karaoke bars are great for socializing and enjoying music. Additionally, night food streets come alive with street vendors offering delicious snacks and drinks, making it an enjoyable experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in local culture.

Hiking in Dunhua

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Changbai Mountain Trails

A series of scenic trails with varying difficulty levels, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Dunhua River Scenic Trail

A leisurely trail along the river, perfect for casual hikes and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Dunhua by plane.

Dunhua Airport

Located approximately 10 km from the city center, it serves domestic flights and connects Dunhua to major cities in China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dunhua is a walkable city, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly streets make exploring the city on foot enjoyable. However, some attractions on the outskirts may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Dunhua, contributing significantly to the local culture and traditions.

Korean Ethnic Minority

A significant minority in the region, preserving unique customs, language, and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A popular sport among local youth, often played in parks and schools.

Table Tennis

Widely played across the city, with many local clubs and informal gatherings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dunhua is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Many locals prefer using bicycles for short distances, contributing to a more relaxed pace of travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dunhua.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check if they are prepared without meat or fish.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly to the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Dunhua includes several hospitals and clinics that provide basic medical services. Larger hospitals are equipped for emergencies, but English-speaking staff may be limited. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and carry essential medications, as pharmacies may not stock all foreign drugs.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide