Yanji Travel Guide: Exploring China's Korean Culture

Embark on a fascinating journey to Yanji, a city in Northeast China that will transport you directly to Korea without leaving the country. This video will guide you through the capital of the Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, where Korean culture is vibrant in every corner, from bilingual street signs to Korean train announcements. Yanji is home to China's largest Korean settlement, with over 54.5% of its population of Korean ethnicity, making it an exceptionally popular tourist destination that received over 10 million visitors in 2024. Get ready for a unique cultural immersion.

Our adventure begins with the arrival at the modern Yanji high-speed railway station, a notable contrast to older stations. Here, the Korean influence is immediate, even in the station's logos and broadcasts. We delve into local life, conversing with Korean residents about their connection to South Korea, their work experiences, and the cost of living compared between the two places. Discover how modern Korean culture, from news to K-pop, permeates daily life in Yanji, and how a five-year visa facilitates travel between the nations. We also explore practical details like accommodation, with a room costing 130 yuan and featuring a smart toilet, and observe some urban infrastructure issues, such as parking on sidewalks.

The true essence of Yanji is savored through its incredible cuisine. We'll take you to try the famous Yanji cold noodles, a refreshing delight with an iced, slightly sour and sweet broth, reminiscent of apple cider vinegar, which is incredibly appetizing. You can't leave without tasting the renowned Korean fried chicken, especially the "cheese snowflake" flavor, known for its crispy shell and fragrant, slightly sour cheese powder. This particular brand has even opened branches in major first-tier cities like Beijing and Shanghai. To accompany the meal, we explore Korean rice wine, which has a strong sticky rice and corn aroma with a sweet taste, often mixed with...