Jingyuetan National Forest Park

I really wanted to love this place, but it left me a bit underwhelmed. The lake is big, sure, but the 'forest' part felt more like a groomed park with long paved paths than actual wilderness. Signs were confusing once I got past the main lake loop, and I ended up walking over an hour trying to find the exit. Also, the only food options around were instant noodles and dry pastries. It's a decent spot for a lazy stroll, but I wouldn't call it a must-see destination.

The park itself is beautiful - the lake is huge and the surrounding forest gives it a proper Northern China feel. What kept it from being a five-star was the weekend experience: the shuttle bus was packed and we waited nearly forty minutes in line. Also, the snack vendors near the main gate were overpriced and pretty meh. Still, a nice boat ride and the pine breeze made up for it. I'd come again on a weekday.

Went with my husband and two kids on a Saturday afternoon. It was crowded near the entrance, but once we walked deeper it opened up and felt so much calmer. We rented a pedal boat and did the little train loop. The kids loved seeing the big fish near the dock. Plenty of shaded grassy spots for a picnic. We ended up staying almost five hours and still didn't see everything. Just a lovely escape from the city noise.

Went for a sunrise run along the main trail and had the whole place almost to myself. The forest section is dense and quiet, and the lake appears out of nowhere through the trees - that view alone is worth it. Paths are well maintained, and I spotted a few birds plus a red squirrel near the picnic area. Clean toilets at the north gate too. If you're into trail running or early morning walks, this place is a gem.

Stumbled in during late October and honestly it was the most gorgeous afternoon in Changchun. The lake was like a mirror with orange and red leaves all around, and we rented a little electric boat for an hour. The air smelled like damp pine and earth - so crisp. We only covered a small bit of the park on foot, but it felt endless and wild in the best way. Highly recommend if you want a real nature reset without leaving the city.

Maybe I had high expectations from the photos, but I found the park a bit underwhelming. It's more like a huge suburban park than a wild forest. The paid shuttle stops are poorly marked and service was slow, so we spent too much time waiting. Some toilet facilities were closed and the rental bike area was chaotic. Okay for a casual stroll, but not worth traveling across town for.

Really beautiful park with clean paths and pretty scenery. We went in spring and the willows were just turning green. The lake is nice but some areas look a bit worn, and the signs could be much clearer — we ended up taking a wrong turn and walking an extra 3 km. Still, the forest air was refreshing and the rowboats were fun.

I came here with friends and we spent the whole day. The park is massive, so don't try to walk all of it. We took the tourist bus to the further stops and hiked from there. There's a little tower at the top with a panoramic view over the reservoir — breathtaking. Bring snacks and water because food options inside are limited and basic.

Huge forest park with tons of walking trails. I entered early on a weekday and had the place almost to myself. The lake view from the boardwalk was gorgeous. Saw a few squirrels and heard lots of birds. Rented a little electric car for an hour which made exploring easy, though it's pricey. Still, the pine forest smell and quiet paths made my day.

Stunning place in autumn! The birch forest looked like a painting with gold leaves. Took a bike ride around the lake and stopped for photos every five minutes. Air was crisp and clean. Definitely one of the best green escapes near Changchun. Will come back in winter to see the ice festival!

This place healed something in me. I came here needing a break from the city, and the quiet trails, the dappled sunlight through the trees, and the gentle breeze off the lake gave me exactly that. No loud music, no crowds — just nature. I sat by the water for an hour and felt so at peace. Can’t recommend it enough.

Perfect for a family day out! Our kids loved the little train ride and the open grassy areas for picnics. The paths are stroller-friendly, and there are plenty of benches to take breaks. We saw deer near the wetland part — magical! Already planning our next visit.

Absolutely stunning! We went early in the morning and had the whole place to ourselves. The mist over the lake, the sound of birds, and the fresh pine air — it was like walking through a painting. The wooden observation deck is a must. One of the best nature escapes I’ve been to in years. 10/10 recommend.

Pretty good overall. The forest smells amazing, and the boardwalk along the lake is peaceful. Only thing is the bike rental was a bit overpriced for the condition of the bikes. Still, I had a relaxing afternoon. Would come back if they fix the rental prices.

Honestly, I was a bit let down. The park itself has potential, but the trails were way too crowded for a Tuesday morning. Plus, a few of the restrooms were locked and the map signs were confusing. The lake view is nice, but not worth the hassle. Maybe go on a weekday off-season?

What a gem! Rented a bike for 50 yuan and circled the whole park. The pine forest smells incredible, and the lake is crystal clear in parts. Plenty of benches and picnic spots. Not too crowded on a Monday. If you love nature and quiet, this is the place. Highly recommend bringing your own snacks though.

Breathtaking! I'm a photographer and this place is a goldmine. Early morning light on the lake, mist rising from the water, and the sound of birds – pure magic. The walking trails are well-kept, and the staff at the entrance were friendly and gave us a map. Definitely coming back with my tripod for sunset shots.

Honestly a bit disappointed. The park itself is huge and the scenery is nice, but the maintenance of some paths was poor – muddy and broken pavements. Also, the signage is confusing; we got lost trying to find the main lake. Not worth the long drive from the city. Might be better if you go with a local guide.

Took my family here during the summer holiday. Kids loved the boat ride, and we rented bikes to cycle around the park. The air was so fresh, and we spotted some ducks and even a couple of squirrels. The only downside was the food options inside the park – limited and overpriced. But overall, a great day out.

Visited on a crisp autumn morning and the maple leaves were absolutely stunning. The lake views with the surrounding forest made for a perfect photo walk. Not overcrowded on a weekday and easy to find parking. Only wish there were more marked trails for longer hikes. Still, a fantastic escape from the city.

Honestly, I was disappointed. Maybe I came on a bad day, but the weather was gloomy and the lake looked murky. The 'forest' part near the main path felt more like a groomed city park than a national forest. Plus, too many vendors blasting music – ruined the nature vibe. The tram ride was overpriced and the driver barely spoke. Won't come back, sadly.

A decent park overall, but I was a bit underwhelmed. The lake is nice and the air is fresh, but on weekends it gets crowded and noisy. Some of the trails near the entrance are poorly marked and I ended up walking in circles. Also the entry fee felt a little high for what you get. Still, the forested areas are beautiful if you go deeper. Worth a visit, but manage expectations.

Took the kids here during autumn and they loved it! Rented a family bicycle and rode around the lake – so much fun. There are little snack stands, clean restrooms, and even a small playground. The fall colors were stunning, especially the red maples. Only minor issue: the bike rental line was a bit long. But overall a perfect day out for everyone.

Came here in January for the snow festival and ice skating. The frozen lake is massive and perfect for skating. The snow sculptures were impressive, though the rental skates were a bit worn. Still, the whole winter vibe is incredible – hot soup from a stall, crisp air, and beautiful snowy woods. Highly recommend for winter fun!

Absolutely stunning park! I went for an early morning hike around the lake and the mist rising off the water was magical. The pine scent filled the air, and I even spotted a few deer near the forest trail. Super clean, well-marked paths, and very peaceful even on a Saturday. A must-visit if you're in Changchun!

This park is a hidden gem! I went on a weekday and practically had the place to myself. The silence of the forest mixed with the gentle lapping of the lake water was pure therapy. Saw a deer near the northern trail! If you’re in Changchun, do not miss this slice of nature.

Hands down one of the best urban forests I’ve ever visited. The trails are well-maintained, signage is clear in both Chinese and English, and there’s even a little café by the water. The birdwatching was amazing early in the morning. Highly recommend renting a bike to cover more ground!

Absolutely fell in love with this place! We spent the whole day hiking through the pine forest and then rented a pedal boat on the crystal-clear lake. The towering trees make you feel like you’re in another world. Perfect for families and solo travelers alike. Will definitely come back!

A solid spot for a weekend outing! The autumn colors were stunning around the lake, and the air was so fresh. Rentals for bikes and boats were reasonably priced. Only gave it 4 stars because the restroom facilities were a bit lacking—only one near the main gate and not very clean.

I went there hoping for a peaceful escape, but honestly, the entrance fee felt a bit steep for what you get. The main lake loop is nice, but some trails were poorly marked and overgrown. Not terrible, but I’ve seen better-maintained parks for less money.

Best forest park I've visited in Northeast China! The trails are varied—some easy lakeside walks, others steep climbs with rewarding views from the lookout tower. I saw a family of squirrels and even a couple of deer near the wetland area. The air quality is incredible, and the whole place feels very well cared for. Pro tip: go early and bring mosquito repellent if you plan to hike the dense trails. 100% recommend for a full day escape.

This place is a hidden gem! I came alone with a book and found a quiet bench under a huge oak tree near the east trail. Spent two hours just reading and listening to birds—no traffic noise, no phone signal (which was a blessing). The only reason I didn’t stay longer was that the café near the main gate closed at 4 PM, but that’s on me for arriving late. Highly recommend for anyone needing a digital detox in nature.

Absolutely stunning! We spent the entire afternoon here and barely scratched the surface. The lake is crystal clear, and the autumn foliage reflected on the water was like a painting. We rented a paddleboat and drifted for an hour—super relaxing and very affordable (only 50 yuan per hour). The staff at the entrance were friendly and gave us a map with recommended photo spots. Will definitely come back with our hiking gear next time!

Came on a weekday morning and it was peaceful with barely any crowd. The forest trails are well-maintained and the air smells amazing—like pine and damp earth. I rented a bike near the south gate and cycled around the lake, which took about an hour. My only small complaint is that the restroom near the pier was locked, so I had to hold it until I reached the visitor center. Still, a solid 4-star day out.

I was really looking forward to hiking here, but honestly the trail markers were so confusing I ended up walking in circles for an hour. The lake itself is pretty nice, but the lack of clear signage and the overpriced snacks at the little shop kind of ruined the vibe. Maybe I just picked a bad day, but I expected better for a “national forest park.”

We took our kids here on a Sunday morning and it was fantastic. The open lawns near the main gate are perfect for a family picnic, and the kids loved the little train ride along the lake. The whole park feels safe and clean, with plenty of trash bins and restrooms. Only minor complaint: the path around the lake is very long for little legs — maybe rent a family bike if you have toddlers. Otherwise, everything was top-notch. 5 stars!

Perfect day trip from Changchun. We spent 6 hours here hiking, picnicking, and paddling on the lake. The water is crystal clear, and the surrounding pine forest smells amazing. The staff at the boat rental were friendly and gave us tips on the best spots. Felt like a completely different world from the city. If you love outdoors, this is a must. Highly recommend bringing your own snacks and a good camera!

Absolutely stunning! Jingyuetan is one of the best urban forests I’ve ever visited. The autumn colours were incredible — oranges, reds, and yellows reflecting in the calm water. I rented a bike and cycled the whole loop, stopping for photos every few minutes. The trails are well-marked, and there are plenty of benches to just sit and listen to the birds. No loud crowds, just nature. 5/5, will definitely return in winter to see the frozen lake!

Nice place for a half-day walk. The forest feels peaceful, and the air is noticeably cleaner than in downtown. I liked the boardwalk along the lake, though some sections were a bit slippery after rain. The only downside was the lack of decent food options inside — just a couple of overpriced snack stands. Worth a visit if you’re nearby, but I wouldn’t go out of my way for it.

I’ve been to Jingyuetan a few times now, and this visit was a bit mixed. The lake is still beautiful, but some of the walking paths near the south entrance were closed for maintenance without any clear detour signs. Had to backtrack quite a bit. Also, the rental bikes were pretty beat up — gears slipping on the hills. It’s still a nice escape from the city, but for the entrance fee I expected better upkeep. Give it a 3 for now.

Photographer's paradise! I went at sunrise and had the entire west shore to myself. The mist rising off the lake with the mountains in the background was unreal. Great composition opportunities with the old pavilion and the reflection of the forest in the water. There are also some really cool mossy stone paths that look straight out of a fairy tale. The light filters through the canopy in a way that's hard to capture anywhere else. Absolutely worth the early wake-up. This place is a hidden gem.

Perfect family day out! My kids (ages 6 and 9) absolutely loved the little train that goes around the park. We also did the zip line – it was very safe and the staff were super patient with the kids. The pathways are stroller-friendly, and there are plenty of benches to sit and watch the birds. We bought some roasted sweet potatoes from a vendor near the east gate – so yummy! Clean, peaceful, and just the right amount of activities. Five stars from our whole family!

Best forest park I've ever been to! We spent the whole day here and barely scratched the surface. The pine trees are enormous and smell incredible – like walking through a Christmas tree farm. We rented a tandem bike and cycled all the way around the lake. The air is so fresh and clean. Saw a family of sika deer near the botanical garden, which was magical. 100% recommend bringing a picnic and spending the whole day. Can't wait to come back in autumn!

Pretty good overall! We came on a weekday afternoon and it was much quieter. The water is crystal clear and the walking paths are well-maintained. I loved the little wooden bridges and the chirping birds. Only downside: the public restrooms near the south gate were absolutely disgusting – no soap, no toilet paper, and a terrible smell. If they fixed that, I'd give it a solid 5. Still, a nice escape from the city for a few hours.

Honestly, I was a bit underwhelmed. The lake itself is beautiful, but the 'forest' part felt like a crowded city park on a Saturday. So many loud groups playing music and blowing vape clouds everywhere. The rental bikes were rusty and the gears kept slipping. Also, the entrance fee seemed steep for what you get – you still have to pay extra for every little thing inside. Not terrible, but I wouldn't go out of my way again.