Changchun

Changchun is the capital and a prefecture-level city of Jilin Province in northeast China. Located on the Songhua River in the Songliao Plain, the city sits about 600 kilometers east of Harbin and serves as a major industrial, educational, and cultural center of the region. Its name means “Long Spring,” a reflection of its climate and seasonal character, and it is commonly referred to as the Spring City in reference to its early springs and the city’s greenery.

The area grew rapidly after the late 19th century with the construction of the Chinese Eastern Railway, and was the headquarters of the South Manchuria Railway. From 1932 to 1945 it served as the capital of the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo. After World War II, Changchun developed as an important heavy industry base and later became a center for automotive manufacturing and education.

Economy: the city is home to the FAW Group, one of China’s largest automobile manufacturers, and to joint ventures such as FAW-Volkswagen. It hosts a range of industries including petrochemicals, equipment manufacturing, and electronics. Education is anchored by Jilin University, one of China’s major national universities, as well as Northeast Normal University and Changchun University of Technology. Cultural institutions include the Changchun Film Studio and historic sites such as the Puppet Emperor’s Palace, a remnant of the Manchukuo era.

Transport and climate: Changchun is served by Changchun Longjia International Airport and an extensive rail network, with Changchun Railway Station as a major hub. The city experiences a humid continental climate with cold, long winters and warm summers.