First-time visitors to Changbai Mountain (长白山) are in for a treat if they catch a glimpse of the beautiful Tianchi Lake (天池). Here are some tips to ensure a lucky and enjoyable visit:

1️⃣ Check the weather forecast: Avoid visiting on cloudy ☁️, rainy 🌧️, or foggy 🌫️ days. Aim for clear, sunny 🌞, and windy days for the best experience.

2️⃣ Buy tickets 1-2 days in advance on the official Changbai Mountain app. During peak seasons, purchase tickets 3 days in advance. Tickets are available at midnight daily, so keep refreshing the app to secure your spot. (Tickets can be refunded for free before 23:50 on the day of your visit.)

3️⃣ Choose the earliest time slot: The earlier, the better! Morning weather is usually the best for clear views and great photos 📸. Entry is timed, so you can enter later than your slot but not earlier. There are five main attractions on the North Slope, and access to Tianchi Lake's main peak closes at 3 PM. Factor in travel and queue times to plan your day efficiently ⏰.

4️⃣ Ticket prices: Entrance to the North Slope is 225 CNY (approximately $31 USD). Don't forget to buy the additional ticket for the Tianchi Lake main peak shuttle, which costs 80 CNY (approximately $11 USD).

5️⃣ Day's itinerary and schedule:

1. Stay in Erdaobaihe (二道白河). Have your hotel 🏨 or guesthouse arrange transportation as rideshare services are scarce 🚗.

2. Arrive at the North Slope Visitor Center. Show your ticket QR code and scan your ID to enter 📲. Board the scenic area shuttle bus 🚌 (about a 50-minute ride).

3. At the transfer center, join the queue for the small shuttle to the main peak of Tianchi Lake (follow the signs to avoid mistakes). The small shuttle seats 10 people 🚐 (about a 15-minute ride).

4. At the main peak, there are two routes:

   • Route A: More crowded and requires some hiking to see Tianchi Lake, but offers broader views and beautiful scenery along the way 🏔️.
   • Route B: A short walk to see Tianchi Lake, less crowded but with limited views, making it great for photos 📷.

   Tip: If you have time, start with Route B for photos, then explore Route A for the scenery!

5. After seeing Tianchi Lake, return by shuttle to the transfer center and queue for the bus to the waterfall. The waterfall requires a 15-20 minute hike up many steps, which can be tiring 😅 but offers stunning views and fresh air. You’ll see hot springs along the way, where you can buy hot spring eggs 🥚 (10 CNY for three, approximately $1.50 USD) and corn 🌽.

6. After the waterfall, take the shuttle back, passing by Small Tianchi Lake, Green Deep Pool, and the Underground Forest. The driver will provide announcements for each stop.

Estimated Costs for the Trip:

• Tickets: Approximately 305 CNY (approximately $42 USD) per person for various attractions.
• Accommodation: 200-600 CNY (approximately $28-$85 USD) per night.
• Food and drinks: 150 CNY (approximately $21 USD) per day.

Total Estimated Cost: 655-1055 CNY (approximately $90-$150 USD) per day

Note: Costs may vary depending on meals, transportation, and other expenses.