Things To Do
in Tumen
Tumen is a small border city in China's Jilin Province, perched along the Tumen River. Its proximity to North Korea lends the town a distinctive Korean-Chinese cultural flavor and a lively border trade atmosphere. The city serves as a gateway for riverfront strolls, markets, and easy day trips to nearby nature reserves.
Visitors should expect a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and scenic views of the northeast border region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Tumen's historic center, admiring the well-preserved architecture from the Qing Dynasty. Stop by the Tumen River, where you can catch glimpses of North Korea across the water, allowing for a unique perspective on this border town. Don't forget to enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at a local eatery, featuring steamed buns and congee.
After lunch, visit the Tumen City Museum to learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage through its fascinating exhibits. Next, explore the bustling local markets where you can interact with vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional snacks. As the afternoon unfolds, take a short walk along the riverbank to enjoy the scenic views and the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant known for its Korean barbecue, reflecting the cultural blend of the region. After your meal, take a casual stroll through the nearby park, where you might catch local families enjoying the evening air. Wind down your day by sipping tea at a cozy tea house, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Begin your day with a guided boat tour along the Tumen River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the border with North Korea. Listen to your guide share stories about the river's significance and its role in the history of the area. Enjoy the fresh morning air as you spot various bird species and local wildlife along the riverbanks.
After the boat tour, head to the nearby Tumen Nature Reserve for a hike through its lush trails, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Bring along a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, soaking in the tranquility and beauty of the reserve. In the afternoon, visit a traditional village nearby, where you can experience local customs and crafts.
As evening approaches, return to Tumen and explore the night market, where you can sample an array of street food delights, from grilled skewers to local dumplings. Engage with friendly vendors and fellow travelers while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Finish your evening with a visit to a local bar for some live music, immersing yourself in the cultural scene of Tumen.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Drink/soft beverage | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Local snacks or small souvenir | $1-4 |
| 🚌Public transportation ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Korean-Chinese cultural blend and border charm
- Low costs and calm pace
- Scenic riverfront and easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Very cold winters; transportation slowly developing
- Language barriers for non-Mandarin/Korean speakers
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问，洗手间在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "您好，请给我菜单" - Hello, please give me the menu
Places to Visit in Tumen
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide views of the river with border silhouettes on clear days; best captured at sunrise or sunset.
Historic storefronts with Chinese and Korean architectural touches for candid street photography.
A peaceful riverside spot with reflections and seasonal foliage—great for atmospheric shots.
A vantage point where the Tumen River forms part of the border; ideal for twilight silhouettes.
Food in Tumen
Tumen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful mixture of rice, vegetables, meat, and gochujang; commonly found in local Korean-Chinese eateries.
Must-Try!
Chilled buckwheat noodles in a tangy broth, a refreshing option in warmer months.
A communal hotpot featuring vegetables, tofu, and meats; ideal for groups visiting border towns.
Skewered grilled lamb seasoned with pepper and spices, a common street option in night markets.
A hearty stew made with locally caught river fish, often enriched with chili and garlic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A riverside market offering fresh fish, kimchi, pickles, and seasonal street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or handshake; address elders with respect; modest dress is appreciated in most settings.
Ask permission before photographing locals or private spaces; avoid sensitive areas or religious sites without permission.
Safety
Tipping in Tumen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most everyday situations; you may tip guides or in high-end hotels if you wish.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are common in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with occasional rain; fresh greenery and blooming trees add color to riverside scenes.
Warm, humid days with bright sunshine and occasional showers; good for river activities and street food evening markets.
Crisp air and colorful foliage along the riverbanks; excellent for photography and nature walks.
Cold and dry with possible snowfall; landscapes transform with snow-covered fields and bare trees.
Tumen at Night
Hiking in Tumen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned hiking area with forest trails and volcanic landscapes; plan for longer trips if exploring thoroughly.
Smaller, accessible hikes along tributaries of the Tumen River suitable for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Tumen by plane.
Closest major airport serving the Yanji region and nearby border towns.
A larger hub in Jilin province; accessible by road or rail from the Yanbian area.
A regional and international hub suitable for longer trips; connect to major Chinese and Asian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group; diverse cultural influences across the city.
Significant presence in Yanbian prefecture, contributing to language, cuisine, and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and parks; pickup games occur in many neighborhoods.
A popular leisure activity found in clubs, hotels, and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tumen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature meat; seek tofu stews, mushroom dishes, vegetable bibimbap, and clearly ask about broth and sauces to avoid meat-based stock.