The 2025 Changchun Conference on High-Quality Culture and Tourism Development. [Photo/Cailian News]

The 2025 Changchun Conference on High-Quality Culture and Tourism Development opened on Oct 9, the first working day after the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays, celebrating a booming year for the city's tourism industry.

From January to September, Changchun received 181.7 million domestic tourists, with total tourism spending reaching 288.86 billion yuan ($40.44 billion), up 28.05 percent and 13.27 percent year-on-year, respectively, placing it among China's most popular destinations.

Changchun has evolved from a city known only for its winter snow and summer breezes into a year-round tourism hotspot.

In winter, the Changchun Ice and Snow New World welcomed over 1.2 million visitors, while the Vasaloppet International Ski Festival set new records. Summer's Changchun Summer Art Season attracted crowds with camping, outdoor performances, and city strolls, while spring blossoms and autumn food festivals completed the full-year experience.

Changchun's new cultural landmark, Xinmin Avenue, blends heritage buildings with creative shops, street parades, and live performances. At the same time, the 2025 Changchun Air Show showcased aerial displays and the city's strong event management, from shaded rest areas to volunteer services.

The stunning night view of a riverside park. [Photo/Cailian News]

The ecological revitalization of the Yitong River has made it a model of urban renewal, integrating ecological conservation with leisure, culture, and tourism. At Jingyuetan National Forest Park, visitors praised the city's thoughtful hospitality. "They handed us coats before the cable car ride and warm towels after. Truly impressive!" said a tourist.

With a blend of nature, culture, and care, Changchun is redefining what year-round tourism means in northern China.