Jilin Univ. Geology Museum and Nanhu Park, Changchun, Jilin Province, PRC

From the subway exit the geology Museum is immediately visible on the north side of the Square.

It doesn't take much wind to lift kites in frigid winter temperatures; many are flying very high despite little indication of wind at ground level.

The rusting cast iron perimiter fence is still topped with old barbed wire, probably a relict of one of the many conflict periods that impacted Changchun (Manchurian occupation, Russian takeover at end of WW2, Nationalist Chinese - CPC civil war siege, and the final CPC takeover).

This 4-floor building was constructed during the Japanese Manchurian Period, with the intention that is would become an even grander Palace for the "Emperor" Puyi. Puyi was expected to relocate here from the Weihuanggong ("fake yellow palace") location. However, the Russian invasion that brought an end to WW2 in China cut short Puyi's relocation plan. The main foyer and staircase are grandly decorated, revealing the intended splendour of a modern Emperor's Palace. The foyer is two floors high and some details of the upper floor construction and decoration can be seen above the main staircase. The Geology Museum occupies the East Wing on the lower level. We were given off-hours access through Jilin Univ. staff connections, but there is public admittance including foreign guests (advised to check opening hours in advance). The small ticket window is just inside the main entrance.

Important dinosaur specimens from China digs are on display at the far east end of the museum. The rest of the geology museum has wide ranging displays including general geology, minerals, rocks, palaeontology, economic geology, volcanoes, earth history, origin and progression of life on earth, early man. Most have Mandarin-only descriptions.

We jumped on a 2-yuan bus headed south along Xinmin Ave, and descended at the next stop after reaching a major roundabout at the north end of Nanhu Gongyuan (South Lake Park). Taking the bus (or taxi) cuts the reported track distance by several kilometers, and avoids a rather monotonous walk along that part of Xinmin Avenue. Sometimes Changchun downtown buses cannot access the curb at bus stops and must board or unload while stopped in one or the other of the traffic lanes, if that is the case use caution when boarding and descending.

The bus stop is close to a Wanda Plaza (with food court and washrooms) on the NW side of Yanan St. near a big roundabout. This is also near the north end of the pedestrian overpass into Nanhu Park. Sometimes Changchun downtown buses cannot access the curb at bus stops, and must unload in the traffic lanes, use caution when getting down.

Crossing over Yanan Street into Nanhu Gongyuan (South Lake Park)

"Wanda" is a moden Chinese Department store chain, typically with a food court, higher-end restauraunts, shopping, movie theater, western style coffee outlet, and decent washrooms.

Cold winter conditions on the day. The lake is frozen over completely. Lots of playful outdoor activity.

Passing a large snow sculpture along the lake shore boardwalk

Boardwalks extend out into the lake in this area. Lots of winter activities, ice castle, hocky rink, etc.

Ice bicycles and chairs are more popular than skating. Another large snow sculpture.

Changchun is known for its spacious broad streets and avenues, with easy walking conditions and (usually) controlled pedestrian crossings.