6 Historical Tourist Spots in Changchun, the Former Capital of Manchukuo, Xinjing

Changchun, situated in the central part of Jilin Province in Northeast China, holds a significant place in history as the capital of Manchukuo, known as "Shinkyo" (New Capital) during the 14 years from March 1932 to the end of World War II in August 1945. Approximately 80 years ago, this city was built on the vast plains of Manchuria based on a large-scale urban planning project.

As a result, Changchun is home to numerous historical landmarks. Visitors can explore remnants of Manchukuo’s governmental institutions and iconic sites such as the former Yamato Hotel (now the Chunyi Hotel), once operated by the South Manchurian Railway Company. Here are some must-visit historical spots in Changchun that offer a glimpse into this intriguing past.

1. The Former Manchukuo Imperial Palace Museum

The Former Manchukuo Imperial Palace Museum is a facility that opens to the public the palace where the Manchukuo Emperor Aisin Gioro Puyi lived and the court where he governed during the Manchukuo era. It is now a popular tourist spot in Changchun. This location was also used as a filming site for the movie The Last Emperor, showcasing various facilities such as the hall where the scenes were shot, Puyi’s car, the swimming pool he used, and air-raid shelters.

Visitors can glimpse the luxurious life of the royal family through displays of royal and general attire, furnishings, carpets, and chandeliers. The expansive garden is particularly beautiful during the flower season, making it a favorite photography spot for visitors. It is one of the must-visit attractions in Changchun.

2. The Former Manchukuo Ministry of Military Affairs

The Former Manchukuo Ministry of Military Affairs is a tourist attraction located on the southern side of Changchun Culture Square, opposite the Former Manchukuo State Council. The military office in Changchun was completed in 1935 and served as the headquarters for Manchukuo’s military affairs. It is currently used as the First Clinical Hospital of Jilin University School of Medicine.

Its architecture, featuring a modern structure topped, conveys a sense of weight and history. The Ministry of Military Affairs was considered one of the most important core institutions during the Manchukuo era.

Though currently a hospital, tourists can still explore its interior, which retains a heavy and dignified atmosphere, offering a profound sense of history. It is a noteworthy historical site in Changchun.

3. Former Site of the Kwantung Army Headquarters

The Kwantung Army Headquarters was completed in 1919 and is now the building of the Jilin Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China. The former headquarters of the Kwantung Army was located in Lushun. After the establishment of Manchukuo, it was relocated in 1934 to Xinjing, now Changchun. At that time, the real power in Manchuria was not held by the State Council of Manchukuo or Emperor Puyi, but by the Kwantung Army Headquarters.

The former site of the Kwantung Army Headquarters is a building that resembles the main tower, giving it a commanding presence. As a tourist spot, entry is not allowed as it is the facility of the Jilin Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China. However, even from the outside, you can see the building, which retains the atmosphere of that era.

4. Xinmin Avenue

The section of Changchun's Xinmin Avenue from Culture Square to Xinmin Square was once the administrative district of Manchukuo. The streetscape from when Changchun was Xinjing is preserved, making it a popular tourist spot. Along the north and south of Xinmin Avenue, there are buildings like the Manchukuo Ministry of Military Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Transportation, Manchukuo Central Bank Headquarters, and State Council. Xinmin Avenue is about 1.5 km long, so it is recommended to take a leisurely walk while sightseeing. These buildings are now used as facilities such as Bethune Medical University, its hospital, and research institutions.

To the south of Xinmin Avenue, near Xinmin Square on Ziyou Avenue, government buildings from that time still remain. Additionally, about 1 km west of Xinmin Square, there is the Changying Old Site Museum, which inherits the legacy of the former Manchukuo Film Association (Man’ei). If you want to experience the atmosphere of Changchun during the Manchukuo era, this area is a must-visit destination.

5. Changchun Culture Square

Changchun Culture Square is a plaza in the heart of what was once Xinjing (Changchun), spanning a vast area of approximately 20 hectares. It serves as both a tourist attraction and a place of relaxation for many locals. To the west of the square lies Changchun University of Science and Technology, while to the south extends the grand Xinmin Avenue. These features highlight that Changchun was designed as a meticulously planned city.

To the north of Changchun Culture Square is the Geological Palace Museum of Jilin University. Originally constructed as a new palace for Emperor Puyi of Manchukuo, construction was halted during the Pacific War when only the underground portion was completed. In the 1950s, the building was completed as the Geological Palace. Extending from the square, Xinmin Avenue features the government office district of Manchukuo, which is now a popular tourist spot. Be sure to visit when you’re exploring Changchun.

6. Wanbaoshan Incident Site

An important historical landmark in Changchun is the Wanbaoshan Incident Site. The Wanbaoshan Incident occurred in 1931 in Wanbaoshan, located north of Changchun. It involved a clash between Chinese farmers and Korean immigrants displaced from Jilin Province over the construction of an irrigation channel.

Although there were no fatalities, the former Kwantung Army fabricated a news report claiming that 800 Korean immigrants were killed by Chinese farmers, using Korean journalists to spread the story. This led to retaliation against Chinese people in Korea, resulting in over 100 deaths in a tragic massacre. Although slightly removed from central Changchun, the site now features a monument to the Wanbaoshan Incident, serving as a historical tourist attraction.

◎ Summary

Changchun, located in northeastern China, experiences harsh winters but is renowned for its pleasant summers. One notable highlight is the former Yamato Hotel, historically operated by the South Manchuria Railway Company. Now known as the Chunyi Guesthouse, offering accommodations at reasonable rates, making it a great choice for travelers.

Changchun's main tourist attractions include the Manchukuo Emperor’s Palace, a testament to the city’s past as "Xinjing," the capital of Manchukuo. When planning a trip to China, don’t miss the chance to explore Changchun’s rich historical charm.

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6 Historical Tourist Spots in Changchun, the Former Capital of Manchukuo, Xinjing