Things To Do
in Helong
Helong is a small city in southeastern Jilin Province, China, near the border with North Korea. It sits in the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, where Korean heritage blends with Han Chinese influences. The city is set along rivers and rolling hills, offering a relaxed pace compared with larger provincial capitals.
Visitors are drawn by cross-border markets, traditional cuisine, and access to nearby natural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Helong Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Next, stroll through the ancient streets lined with traditional architecture, where you can admire the intricate designs. Don’t forget to stop by local tea houses for a refreshing cup of green tea while enjoying the morning tranquility.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local cuisine, wander through the bustling markets to shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Engage with local artisans who will offer insights into their crafts, making the experience more immersive. As the afternoon light softens, consider visiting the nearby old temple for some quiet reflection.
As evening falls, head to the scenic riverside to take in the views of the setting sun casting warm hues over the water. Enjoy a dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling authentic dishes like spicy fish hotpot. Cap off the day with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where you can watch the lively atmosphere of locals enjoying their evening.
Begin your day with a picnic breakfast in Helong Park, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of chirping birds. Explore the park's walking trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, making it a perfect spot for photography. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the park’s serene pond, where you can often spot local wildlife.
After exploring the park, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café within the park that serves fresh, local ingredients. Spend your afternoon bird-watching or participating in a tai chi class often offered in the open spaces. As the sun reaches its peak, find a shaded area to relax with a book or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
As dusk approaches, take a guided night walk through the park to experience the magical transformation of the surroundings. The sounds of nocturnal wildlife fill the air, and you might even catch a glimpse of fireflies dancing in the twilight. Wind down with a light dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties while reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic groceries) | $20-40/week |
| 🚕Local transportation (one-way) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🍺Domestic beer | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cross-border cultural mix with Korean influences
- Affordability and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Language barriers in rural areas
- Weather can be harsh in winter
- "你好" - Hello
- "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "这个多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "厕所在哪里？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "我想要这个" - I would like this
- "可以给我发票吗？" - Can I get a receipt?
Places to Visit in Helong
Visit one of these nice places.
Long, tree-lined riverside boulevard with sunset reflections on the water.
A peaceful urban park with water features and seasonal blossoms.
Narrow lanes with traditional signage, great for street portraits and texture shots.
Evening stalls and lanterns offer vibrant colors and lively street photography opportunities.
Food in Helong
Helong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty pot featuring kimchi, pork, tofu, and vegetables—common in layered Han-Korean dining spots.
Must-Try!
A colorful bowl of rice with vegetables, egg, and gochujang; widely available in casual diners.
Black bean sauce noodles popular in Korean-Chinese eateries along Yanbian's border towns.
Chilled buckwheat noodles in a tangy broth, ideal for hot days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls with dumplings, noodles, pickled vegetables, and river fish.
Evening stalls offering skewers, pancakes, and sweet treats beside the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello (ni hao) is a good start; many locals in Yanbian speak Mandarin; Korean is also heard in some communities.
Use chopsticks properly; avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice; give and receive items with two hands when possible.
Be respectful toward Korean cultural practices; ask before photographing people; show curiosity without stereotypes.
Safety
Tipping in Helong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Chinese cities; rounding up at a table is appreciated but not expected.
Cash (CNY) is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are ubiquitous; cards are less common in small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with intermittent showers; bring a light jacket and an umbrella.
Warm and humid; carry water and sun protection; occasional rain showers.
Clear skies and colorful foliage; perfect for city and hillside photography.
Very cold, often below freezing; snow is common; dress in layers and protect electronics.
Helong at Night
Hiking in Helong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short to moderate hike with forest scenery and city views, located within a reasonable drive from Helong.
Rugged canyon-like terrain along the river; provides dramatic landscapes for photographers.
A network of well-marked trails through conifer forests and open meadows near Helong.
Airports
How to reach Helong by plane.
The closest airport serving Helong and the Yanbian region; connects to major Chinese hubs with a few international links.
A larger regional hub offering more flights; accessible by rail or road from Helong.
Major airport offering extensive connections beyond Northeast China; farther from Helong.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Helong with Mandarin-speaking populations.
A significant minority in Yanbian; signs and cultural practices reflect Korean heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local teams and schools organize matches.
Popular at schools and community centers; pickup games common in evenings.
Common indoor activity in clubs and homes; often played in community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Helong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetable and tofu options; ask for vegetable bibimbap or mushroom hotpots; vegetarian-friendly markets exist but verify sauces.