Population: 2,750,000

Area: 40,600 square kilometers (15,676 square miles)

Nationalities: Han, Man (Manchu), Chaoxian (Korean)

Administrative Division: 4 districts (Aimin, Dong'an, Yangming, Xi'an), 2 counties (Dongning, Linkou); 4 county-level cities (Muling, Suifenhe, Hailin, Ning'an)

Useful Telephone Numbers:
Tourist Complaints: 0453-6821997
Weather Forecast: 121
Zip Code Inquiries: 184
Bank of China: 0453-6678006

Location: Situated in southeastern Heilongjiang Province, Mudanjiang City is bounded on the south by Jilin Province, and neighbors Russia in the East, adjacent to the Sea of Japan. The capital city of Heilongjiang, Harbin is about 358 kilometers (222 miles) northwest of Mudanjiang.

History: Mudanjiang, also called Mudan Ula by Manchu, stands for a meanderous river. In the 2,300 years from the Shang Dynasty (16th-11th century BC) to Sui Dynasty (581-618), it was inhabited by the ancestors of the Manchu. The central government began to administrate this area in the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and it was one of the headstreams of the uprising of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The city gains its name for the Mudanjiang River flowing through it.

Physical Features: The city is surrounded by mountains, flat in the central part. Mountainous and hilly areas constitute the main landform of the city. The eastern part belongs to the Changbai Mountain area, and the central land is the valley-basin of Mudanjiang River.

Climatic Features: Enjoying a temperate continental monsoon climate, the city has clear four seasons with an annual average temperature of 4.5¡æ (40F). Its weather is cool and rarely windy in spring and autumn.

When to Go: June to September is the best time to Mudanjiang City, not only for the cool weather, but also for the highest water level of a year. That will be the best time to viewing waterfall and boating on lakes.

Special Local Products: Black Fungi, wild fungus, Hericium Erinaceus

Scenic Spots:
Jingpo Lake: It is the largest alpine barrier lake in China formed by the volcanic eruption ten thousand years ago. Mountains surround this narrow and long lake while the lake embraces islets in the water. The Diaoshuilou Waterfall, underground lava tunnel and the crater forest constitute the highlights of the scenic area.
Shuangfeng Forestry Center: If visitors want to experience the interesting skiing, sledding and grand snowscape, the Shuangfeng Forestry Center is the best choice. Located in Changting Town of Hailin City, the forestry center is reputed as the 'snow town'. Its nival period lasts for seven months from October to the next April.

Tourist Tips:
1. Mudanjiang Airport is 9 kilometers (6 miles) southwest of Mudanjiang downtown, operating flights to Beijing, Guangzhou, Dalian, Qingdao, Yanji and Wuhan. It is about four hours' ride from Harbin to Mudanjiang, and then visitors can get to the Jingpo Lake with about two hours.
2. Winter in Mudanjiang is extremely cold. Apart from the winter wear, visitors should also keep their photographic equipment properly protected.