Songhua

Songhua River (松花江) is a major river in Northeast China and a tributary of the Heilongjiang (Amur) basin. It runs in a length of about 1,400 kilometers. The river originates in the Changbai Mountains on the China–North Korea border and flows north and east through Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces, passing through Jilin City and Harbin before joining the Heilongjiang system in the border region.

Hydrology and economy: The Songhua collects water from the central Heilongjiang and Jilin regions and drains into the Amur basin. It supplies water to major cities, supports irrigation, and hosts hydroelectric projects along its course. The lower reaches are influenced by seasonal freeze and thaw.

Environmental history: The river has faced pollution incidents, notably in 2005 when a benzene spill from a Jilin Petrochemical Plant contaminated the water downstream to Harbin and other communities, prompting temporary water-use restrictions and cleanup measures. The river has also been subject to flood control efforts and habitat protection programs.

Etymology and cultural notes: The name Songhua (松花) reflects the pine forests and flowers historically found along its banks. The river is culturally and economically significant for the population of northeast China and for regional transport and tourism along its scenic reaches, including winter ice activities near Harbin.