The first time I went to this place — 2 years ago
If you’re in North East China between the months of June and August, you should definately consider a trip to Chang Bai Shan mountain. I wasn’t sure it would be worth it, especially after a hellish 12 hour bus ride there and sparse accomodations in Bai He. Chang Bai Shan was riveting from top to bottom. We arrived early in the morning and ascended the summit. It was bitterly cold and foggy and initially, we weren’t able to catch a glimpse of the volcanic lake at the summit of the mountain. Then it suddenly seemed like the heavens were opening and everything cleared away to reveal the most serene and glass-like body of water that I have ever seen. It was awe-inspiring! The picture I’ve uploaded doesn’t even begin to do it justice. After descending, we were able to take another route into the lake and were able to approach it at ground level. Loads of tourists still didn’t diminish from it’s beauty. Beware the hike up to the mountain. Steep steps and grooves have been carved into the mountainside and it will take at least an hour to get to the water’s edge. It’s the only place in China where you can actually see the North Korean border and the guards patrolling it on the other side of the lake.
