"Heaven Lake opens its 'blind box'—only 3 months a year to see its true face. Are you willing to bet on this sapphire luck of Changbai Mountain?

Trip Highlights: Heaven Lake (must-see) + Green Abyss Pool/Underground Forest (off-the-beaten-path secret spots) + hot spring relaxation, 2 days and 1 night is enough to explore the core attractions. Day 1: Summit Heaven Lake + Forest Stroll Morning: Check in at Heaven Lake (core goal!) North Slope (recommended): Classic route with dense attractions (Heaven Lake, waterfall, Julongquan hot spring group, underground forest). Take the eco-friendly bus + transfer bus (80 RMB/person, weather permitting) directly to the Heaven Lake viewing platform. On sunny days, the blue lake surface and snowy mountains appear in the same frame, perfect for stunning photos. West Slope: Offers a wider view (overlooking the entire Heaven Lake), but requires climbing 1,442 steps (about 30 minutes), suitable for visitors with good stamina. If the North Slope Heaven Lake is closed (highly weather-dependent), the West Slope is an alternative. Afternoon: Green Abyss Pool + Underground Forest Green Abyss Pool (near North Slope): Alpine lake + waterfall, emerald green in summer, beautifully reflecting red leaves in autumn, fewer people for great shots. Underground Forest (end station of North Slope): Canyon forest formed by volcanic activity, walking through it feels like entering a pristine secret realm, with occasional squirrel sightings that are super cute. Evening: Stay in Erdaobaihe Town Recommended to stay at a hot spring hotel (such as Crowne Plaza), soak in volcanic hot springs before bed (water temperature over 60°C year-round) to relieve hiking fatigue, better value than mountain top lodges. Day 2: Off-the-beaten-path or Relax before Departure Option 1 (if time allows): South Slope day tour (advance reservation required!) — the least crowded route, preserving the most original forest and viewing platforms, unobstructed views of Heaven Lake, and you can see the China-North Korea boundary marker (ID required). Option 2 (easy version): Explore the town and try Korean ethnic cuisine (must-try: cold noodles, rice cake, iron pot stew), or buy ginseng/lingzhi specialty products (choose reputable shops). ⚠️ Key Tips: Heaven Lake depends on luck! From July to September (summer), the chance of sunny days is high. After October, it may close due to heavy snow. Check the "Changbai Mountain Scenic Area" official WeChat for real-time weather before departure. Transportation: Fly from Changchun/Yanji to Changbai Mountain Airport (closest), or take high-speed train from Dunhua/Antu to Changbai Mountain Station, then taxi to Erdaobaihe Town (about 30 minutes). Gear: Bring a jacket in summer (big temperature difference on the mountain), wear down jacket + anti-slip shoes in winter; camera warm cover (low temperatures can cause shutdown). Follow this pace to easily check off the highlights of Changbai Mountain without rushing! 🌟"