Things To Do
in Helong

Helong is a picturesque city located in Jilin Province, China, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled near the Changbai Mountain range, it serves as a gateway to breathtaking hiking trails and scenic views. The city is also famous for its vibrant local markets and delicious cuisine, making it a hidden gem for food enthusiasts.

With a mix of traditional and modern influences, Helong offers visitors a unique glimpse into Chinese life in a serene environment.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the beautiful Changbai Mountain, where you can hike to the mesmerizing Heavenly Lake.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, then explore the local culture by visiting the Helong Museum.

evening
:

End your day by strolling through Helong's night market, savoring street food delicacies and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the scenic Daxing'anling Forest Park, perfect for a peaceful morning hike.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café, then spend the afternoon at the nearby waterfall, enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a popular local restaurant, followed by a visit to a karaoke bar to experience the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee at a café$2
🚌Bus fare$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$20
🍺Beer at a bar$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences with local cuisine and traditions.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English-speaking services may pose a challenge.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent outside peak hours.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • "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 it cost?

Places to Visit in Helong

Visit one of these nice places.

Heavenly Lake

A stunning crater lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for capturing breathtaking sunrise and sunset shots.

Daxing'anling Forest Park

A lush forest park offering numerous trails and scenic viewpoints for nature photography.

Helong Night Market

The vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere of the night market make it a fantastic spot for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Helong

Helong offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the flavors of Jilin Province.

Helong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Heilongjiang Dumplings

These dumplings are filled with fresh vegetables and meats, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Grilled Fish

Freshly caught fish from the rivers, grilled to perfection and seasoned with local spices.

Noodle Soup

A hearty noodle soup made with hand-pulled noodles and flavorful broth, topped with local greens.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Helong Night Market

A lively market with various stalls offering street food, snacks, and local delicacies, perfect for an evening stroll.

Morning Market

A bustling morning market where you can find fresh produce, local meats, and breakfast items.

Climate Guide

Weather

Helong experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, addressing them appropriately and offering help when needed.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Gift Giving

Gifts are often exchanged during visits; it's customary to present them with both hands.

Safety Guide

Safety

Helong is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to be cautious in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are accessible, and local hospitals can provide medical assistance if needed.

Tipping in Helong

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in Helong, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, but cash is still accepted in many places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

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

Summer

Summer can be warm and humid, ideal for hiking and enjoying water activities at nearby lakes.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage colors, perfect for photography and enjoying the cooler weather.

Winter

Winter brings snow and cold temperatures, making it suitable for winter sports and enjoying hot local dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Helong at Night

The nightlife in Helong is vibrant and varied, featuring everything from night markets filled with street food to lively karaoke bars. Visitors can enjoy local music performances, dance clubs, and laid-back pubs. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals often engage with tourists, making for a welcoming experience.

Hiking in Helong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Changbai Mountain Trails

Multiple trails of varying difficulty levels offering stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding region.

Jilin Forest Park Trails

These trails provide a serene hiking experience through lush forests, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Airports

How to reach Helong by plane.

Changchun Longjia International Airport

Located approximately 200 km from Helong, it is the nearest major airport, offering domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Helong is reasonably walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, though some areas may have uneven surfaces. However, for more remote attractions, walking may not always be practical, and public transport or taxis are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Helong, Han Chinese culture influences the local lifestyle and customs.

Korean Minority

Helong is home to a significant Korean minority population, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and culinary offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport in Helong, with many local courts and teams participating in community leagues.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is widely played, with many enthusiasts and local competitions reflecting its popularity in China.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Helong is generally light, with most residents using bicycles, scooters, and public transport. Public buses are the primary means of transportation, with routes connecting major areas of the city. Peak hours may see increased congestion, but the city is easily navigable on foot or by taxi.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Helong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs due to local cooking styles.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited; communicate your allergies clearly to ensure safe dining.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Helong is adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Major hospitals provide a range of services, but it's advisable to have travel insurance. English-speaking staff may be limited, so having a local contact can be helpful in emergencies.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide