1. A Powerful Manchurian Monument
Literally translated as the "Illegitimate Manchukuo Imperial Palace Museum", this impressive palace was the seat of government for Japanese-ruled Manchuria between 1932 and 1945. During their rule over the region, the Japanese installed the deposed emperor Pu Yi as a puppet in the palace, while real power was exercised elsewhere. But the modern day museum packs a powerful punch, leading visitors through the (harrowing) story of the conquest and Imperial rule, as well as the war and liberation. The luxuries enjoyed by Pu Yi are highlights, including a mini golf course and horse racing track, but the whole place is fascinating.
2. Exquisite Art And Crafts From Jilin's Past
Established in 1951, the Jilin Provincial Museum is a fitting storehouse for north-eastern China's historical treasures, and does a good job at telling the area's often troubled past. Located right at the heart of Changchun, on Renmin Street, it features some stunning paintings from the Song and Qing dynasties, elegant Yuan era drawings and sketches of plants from the Qing (Manchu) dynasty. Basically, it's a trove of wonderful artworks forming a neat counterpoint to attractions based around the 20th century. The ceramics and enamel-ware items are also a delight.
3. A Beautiful Confucian Comeback
A stunning Confucian temple, this site only dates back to the 2000s, although it's one of those Chinese locations that has an ancient, timeless feel. First built in 1872, it went through successive refits in the 1900s, and was expanded from a neighborhood temple into one of the largest in the north east, spreading over 10,000 square meters. However, the Cultural Revolution intervened, the temple was flattened, and all looked lost. No longer. The city has rebuilt Wen into its full glory, including its gardens, walls, bridges, and ponds. It's quite an achievement.
4. Big Screens And Creepy Zombies
If you're not familiar with the Chinese film industry, this spectacular attraction will set you straight. For years, Changchun has been the country's version of Hollywood, and still churns out special effects-laden blockbusters which rarely get wide scale attention in the west. This park is essentially Changchun's version of Universal Studios, with exciting movie-based rides, and areas like the "zombie hospital" where staff actually emerge from the shadows to terrify visitors on summer evenings. There's also a big screen that the park claims is the largest of its kind in the world.
5. An "Ice" Place To Spend The Afternoon
When you're a little fatigued by sight-seeing or just want to relax in a classically Chinese park, this green space in west-central Changchun is the place to head. Spread over 220 hectares, Nanhu is centered around a large lake with a forested island, and nature walks all around its edge. Expect plenty of cyclists in summer, while ice-skaters take to the pond when the winter freeze comes. Children's play areas and plenty of space for picnics make it somewhere most visitors spend at least a little time.
