Wusong Island (雾凇岛), located on the Songhua River, is a picturesque small island renowned for its stunning rime ice formations, which inspired its name. This enchanting phenomenon occurs when the water vapor from the river meets the cold air in winter, resulting in beautiful frost flowers on the trees. The island has become a hotspot for photographers, as the sight of the frosted willows and pines creates breathtaking landscapes that resemble snow-covered scenes.
During winter, the banks of the Songhua River transform into a magical wonderland, with the trees adorned in shimmering white frost. This natural spectacle, known as “rime” in meteorological terms, is affectionately referred to as “tree hanging” by locals. The combination of the lush greenery along the river and the ethereal frost creates an extraordinary view that captivates visitors. Wusong Island is often listed among China’s four major natural wonders, alongside the picturesque landscapes of Guilin, the Stone Forest in Yunnan, and the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.
The best places to witness rime ice on Wusong Island are the nearby villages in the Ural Street Manchu Town, particularly Han Village and Zeng Tong Village. Zeng Tong Village is particularly famous for its rime displays, with the saying “to appreciate rime, go to Zeng Tong” becoming a local adage. The prime season for observing rime on Wusong Island is from late December to the end of February, with the optimal time for photography typically between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM each day.
Accommodations in Jilin City, the nearest urban area, offer various options ranging from luxury hotels to budget chains. However, staying on Wusong Island itself is highly recommended for a more authentic experience. The island features traditional rural homes with paper windows, heated kang beds, and walls decorated with newspaper, providing a glimpse into local culture. In recent years, new accommodations have been built, offering modern conveniences such as private bathrooms and solar water heaters.
Dining on Wusong Island showcases the region’s rustic flavors, featuring farm-to-table meals and local specialties. Guests can enjoy hearty Northeast corn liquor, which reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the area. Overall, Wusong Island is not just a place to admire stunning natural beauty but also a unique cultural experience that connects visitors to the traditions and flavors of Northeast China.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 40 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0432-65555555 |
Location and Transportation
Wusong Island is located in Hantun Village, Ural Street, Longtan District, Jilin City, Jilin Province. To reach Wusong Island from Jilin, there are two main routes:
- Via Tuchengzi: Take a bus from the Jilin City Highway Passenger Transport Station towards Tuchengzi. The bus will pass through Tuchengzi and arrive at Wusong Island (Zeng Tong Bridge). The total distance is approximately 40 kilometers, and the journey takes about an hour or more.
- Via Ural Street: Another option is to take a bus from the Jilin City Highway Passenger Transport Station to Ural Street, covering a distance of about 35 kilometers in approximately one hour. From Ural Street, you can take a taxi to Hantun Village, which is about 6 kilometers away.
