Languages Spoken in Changchun

Changchun, the capital city of Jilin Province in Northeast China, has a diverse population with people from various ethnic backgrounds. Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China, but the language spoken by the majority of people in Changchun is different. In this blog post, we will discuss the different languages spoken in Changchun.

Mandarin Chinese

As mentioned previously, Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China. It is also the most spoken language in Changchun. Most people in Changchun are fluent in Mandarin Chinese, which is also the primary language used in schools, business, and government offices. If you are planning to visit Changchun, learning some basic Chinese phrases will go a long way in helping you communicate with the locals.

Jilu Mandarin

Jilu Mandarin, or Northeastern Mandarin, is a dialect of Mandarin spoken in northeast China, including Changchun. It is one of the most widespread dialects in China and has differences in pronunciation and vocabulary from Standard Mandarin. The Jilu Mandarin spoken in Changchun has some unique features compared to other dialects in the region.

Korean

Due to its close proximity to North Korea, Changchun has a Korean population, and the Korean language is commonly spoken in the city. According to a report by the Korean Consulate, there are estimated to be over 100,000 Koreans living in Changchun. The Korean language is taught in some schools in Changchun, and many Korean-owned businesses have opened in recent years.

Manchu

Manchu is the language of the Manchus, an ethnic minority group that once ruled over China during the Qing dynasty. Today, there are only a few thousand Manchu speakers left in China. However, Changchun is home to some Manchu families who still speak the language, and there are efforts to preserve and promote the language in the city.

Russian

Changchun has a significant Russian population due to its location near the Russian border. Many Russian immigrants have settled in the city and started businesses, and as a result, the Russian language is spoken by a small but significant number of people in Changchun. Russian is also taught in some schools, and there is a Russian consulate in the city.

The Bottom Line

Changchun is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population, so it’s no surprise that there are many languages spoken in the city. Mandarin Chinese is the most widely spoken language, but there are also significant populations of Korean, Manchu, and Russian speakers. If you’re planning to visit Changchun, knowing some basic Mandarin Chinese phrases will come in handy, but it’s always a good idea to learn a few words in any other language you encounter during your stay.

An Insider’s Guide to Changchun

Changchun is the capital of Jilin province in northeast China. It is also called the ‘city of automobiles’ because of the presence of China’s oldest car manufacturing plant. Changchun has a rich history, culture, and a unique blend of modern urban life and rustic countryside. The city is renowned for its friendly people, delicious local cuisine and beautiful attractions. In this insider’s guide to Changchun, we will explore some of the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top Attractions in Changchun

1. Jingyuetan National Forest Park – Jingyuetan National Forest Park is a natural wonder in Changchun, known for its picturesque scenery and the largest artificial forest in Asia. It is a great destination for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, boating, and camping.

2. Puppet Emperor’s Palace – The Puppet Emperor’s Palace is an iconic landmark in Changchun. It was the last palace built under the Qing Dynasty and the first palace of the Manchu Empire. It served as the residence of the last emperor of China, Pu Yi. The palace is a historical site with beautifully decorated halls and gardens.

3. Changchun Movie Wonderland – Changchun is home to China’s first Movie Wonderland, where visitors can experience movie magic in real life. Visitors can enjoy watching movies, explore the behind-the-scenes of movie-making, and participate in interactive activities.

Dining Spots in Changchun

1. Jindian Snack Street – Jindian Snack Street is one of Changchun’s most popular food streets, known for its affordable, delicious local cuisine. The food street has a variety of stalls selling everything from spicy tofu to barbecued meat and seafood.

2. Meishi Jie Night Market – Meishi Jie Night Market is another famous food street in Changchun, offering an exquisite selection of street food such as kebabs, steamed buns, and traditional Chinese desserts.

3. Changbaishan Restaurant – Changbaishan Restaurant is one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Changchun, serving traditional, authentic Northeast Chinese cuisine. The restaurant’s specialties include braised pork, stewed chicken, and wild vegetables.

Cultural Experiences in Changchun

1. Changchun Film Festival – The Changchun Film Festival is an annual international film festival held in Changchun City, Jilin province. The festival has been held since 1992 and attracts international film stars, directors, producers, and film enthusiasts.

2. Changchun Song and Dance Theatre – The Changchun Song and Dance Theatre is the largest performance venue in Changchun, presenting traditional and contemporary Chinese performing arts.

3. Jilin Provincial Museum – The Jilin Provincial Museum is a must-visit place for history and art enthusiasts. The museum’s collection includes cultural relics, art pieces, and fossils that showcase the history and culture of Jilin Province.

Local History of Changchun

1. Manchukuo State – Manchukuo State was a puppet state of Japan during the Second World War, located in Northeast China, with Changchun as its capital. The Puppet Emperor’s Palace in Changchun is a testament to the state’s history.

2. Changchun Film Studio – Changchun Film Studio is the oldest movie studio in China, established in 1943. Many famous Chinese movies were filmed here like The Life of Wu Xun and Breaking with Old Ideas.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Changchun

1. Lotus Flower Island – Lotus Flower Island is a beautiful scenic spot in Changchun famous for its lotus flowers that bloom in the summer season. Visitors can take a boat ride across the lake, explore the area, and enjoy the scenery.

2. South Lake Park – South Lake Park is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and tranquility. The park has many walking paths, pavilions, gardens, and a lake with an island in the center.

3. Primeval Forest National Park – The Primeval Forest National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, featuring ancient forests, waterfalls, lakes, and mountains. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring the park’s trails and enjoying the fresh air and stunning views.

In conclusion, Changchun is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, delicious local cuisine, and amazing natural wonders. This insider’s guide will hopefully help you plan a memorable trip to Changchun and make the most out of your visit.