Things To Do
in Shulan
Shulan is a northeastern Chinese city in Jilin Province perched along the Songhua River, offering easy access to forested landscapes and rural villages. The town blends Han Chinese traditions with Korean and Manchu influences, which you can taste in its markets and eateries. Winters are cold and snowy while summers are warm and humid, creating a pronounced seasonal rhythm.
Visitors can enjoy riverside strolls, scenic hikes in nearby woodlands, and a relaxed pace that suits exploration on foot and by bike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Shulan Historic Center, where you can marvel at ancient architecture and learn about the city's rich history. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, and stop by local shops selling handcrafted goods. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby eatery, enjoying local delicacies like dumplings and steamed buns.
After lunch, head to the Shulan Museum to explore fascinating exhibits that detail the city's cultural heritage. Engage with friendly locals who can share their stories and insights about Shulan's past. Spend some time in the nearby park, where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere while observing local life.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy an authentic dinner featuring regional specialties such as hotpot or stir-fried dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, admiring how the historic buildings look under the night sky. End your evening at a local tea house, sipping on traditional Chinese tea and reflecting on the day's discoveries.
Start your morning with a refreshing hike in the nearby Changbai Mountain range, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Immerse yourself in nature as you breathe in the fresh mountain air and listen to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Be sure to capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as you ascend the trails.
After your hike, visit the Changbai Mountain Nature Reserve to learn about the local flora and fauna. Join a guided tour to spot various species of wildlife, including rare birds and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive Siberian tiger. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the serene beauty of the reserve.
Return to Shulan and unwind at a local restaurant, savoring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Spend some time exploring the vibrant night market, where you can sample street food and shop for unique souvenirs. As the day comes to a close, find a quiet spot to reflect on the day's adventures and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥟Dumplings or street food | $2-6 |
| 🧋Drink at a café or tea house | $1-4 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚎Public transport single ride | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, friendly locals and a safe environment
- Access to nature, riverside scenery, and photographic opportunities
- Affordable food and straightforward travel within the region
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Language barriers in more rural areas
- Harsh winters require preparation for cold weather and transportation
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "请问洗手间在那儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "你们有英文菜单吗？" - Do you have an English menu?
Places to Visit in Shulan
Visit one of these nice places.
River views at sunrise or sunset with reflections on the water and boats gliding along the bend.
Historic streets and traditional storefronts offer characterful angles for street photography.
Water features, bridges, and seasonal foliage provide tranquil composition opportunities.
Nearby villages with traditional houses and crafts present colorful, documentary-friendly subjects.
Food in Shulan
Shulan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy sweet-and-sour pork, a Northeast classic offered at many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Braised pork with pickled cabbage, a fragrant and balancing dish typical to Dongbei cooking.
A hearty trio of fried potatoes, peppers, and eggplant—simple, flavorful comfort food.
Handmade dumplings, filled with pork and cabbage or a vegetarian mix, common at markets and casual restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with dumplings, grilled skewers, noodles, and hot soups; great for an informal dinner.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or handshake is common. Address elders with courtesy and use polite language when asking for help.
Keep voice levels moderate in public places; avoid loud disagreements and show patience in queues and markets.
Dress modestly, remove hats if required, and speak softly near sacred spaces.
Small, thoughtful gifts are appreciated when visiting locals you know; avoid gestures that imply a business gift exchange unless appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Shulan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in most local establishments. In larger tourist areas, small tips may be appreciated for above-and-beyond service, but it is not expected.
Cash (RMB) is widely accepted. Mobile payment via WeChat Pay and Alipay is ubiquitous; some places may accept international cards, but not everywhere.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, begin outdoor activities early, and carry light rain gear.
Mild days with crisp evenings and colorful foliage. Great for photography and relaxed hikes.
Very cold and snowy; layer up, protect exposed skin, and enjoy winter activities or cozy indoor cafés.
Cool to mild with variable weather; expect rain showers and budding trees—good for city walks and early nature visits.
Shulan at Night
Hiking in Shulan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate loop through coniferous and mixed forests near the city.
Scenic riverside path with viewpoints; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Steeper hike in the surrounding hills offering forest scenery and vantage points.
Airports
How to reach Shulan by plane.
Major gateway to northeastern Jilin; roughly a 3-4 hour drive or train ride from Shulan.
A larger international hub farther away; about 6-7 hours by road or rail from Shulan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Shulan.
There are communities with Korean heritage influencing local culture and cuisine.
Historical presence in the region; some local crafts and traditions persist.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and community centers throughout the region.
A popular indoor sport commonly found in gyms and clubs.
Seasonal activity during the cold months, reflecting local winter sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shulan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Dongbei dishes center on meat, but vegetarian options exist in most places: focus on vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, and egg dishes; ask for vegetable-only versions or substitutions where possible.