Covering 2,000 square kilometers, Changbai Mountain National Nature Reserve, Jilin Province, is part of UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Program. Heaven Lake, mountains, hot springs and waterfalls are among the six local natural wonders. The mountains, covered with pristine forests, make an excellent tourist destination in the summertime.

    The mountain is named so because its main peak, Baitou Mountain (White-head Mountain) is covered with white rocks and thick snow. It is the highest hilly area Northeast China.

    Heaven Lake is a must-go attraction when visiting the area in summer, partly because it is breathtaking in summer, but also because the winters are so harsh that you can’t visit it in the wintertime. The mountain is a sleeping volcano, which has led to a plateau forming on top of the mountain that gradually filled with water. The lake is oval in shape and is about 13 square kilometers in size. It is like a magnificent piece of jade inlaid in the mountain. It is also the birthplace of three major rivers in the region: Songhua River, Yalu River and Tumen River.

    Other recommended spots in the area include Luyuan Pond, Grand Waterfall and Underground Forest.

    Transport: Fly to Changchun, capital of Jilin Province, and take a train to Baihe Township. Take a taxi to the mountain.

    Red Beach,

    Panjin

    Panjin is a small city located in Liaoning Province, but Red Beach and other special ecological environment attract tourists from all over the world.

    Red Beach is the largest coastal wetland in the world. The beach is red because of a kind of grass that grows there. In late summer and autumn, the grass turns red. The sea of red grass moves like the waves of the nearby sea when the wind blows.

    Visitors are strongly encouraged to take a walk on the wooden bridge and enjoy the wind, the sunset and the red scenery.

    There are also many reeds in neighboring areas. They are planted to make paper. Many people like to take a boat ride through the reeds to relax away from busy city life.

    Red Beach and the reeds are also home to many little crabs. You can rent a crab-fishing pole and go crab fishing. In fact, Panjin crabs are one of the best river crabs in northern China. May local diners offer delicious crab meals.

    Summer is also a great time to watch wild birds in Panjin. Many different kinds of birds come to Panjin each summer, including some rare species. The locals love the birds and treat them well, so the birds in the area are very friendly toward people.

    Transport: Fly to Shenyang, capital of Liaoning Province, from Shenzhen airport, and take a coach to Panjin.

    Mohe,

    Heilongjiang Province

    Mohe in Heilongjiang Province is China’s northernmost point. Its nickname is “Chinese Arctic Village.”

    The Arctic Village is a must-see place in the summertime. The village throws a northern lights festival every summer. Unfortunately, the lights are only visible in the fall and winter. But this is not a problem because when the tour buses clear out you will have the village and forests to yourself. At night, hike through the forest to a clearing where, if the weather cooperates, you will see a private fireworks show courtesy of Mother Nature.

    Another must-see spot in the village is the First Frontier Post, which is China’s northernmost observation post. The top area covers about 10 square meters and offers a bird’s-eye view of Russia.

    Transport: Fly to Harbin, capital of Heilongjiang Province, and take a train to Mohe. Take a bus or taxi to the village from Mohe. (Wang Yuanyuan)