Encounter the Cool Summer of Dongtu Village

Hey everyone, looking for a summer getaway that's both refreshing and fun? Then you must set your sights on Dongtu Village in Jiaohe! Nestled in Jiaohe City, Jilin Province, this village is surrounded by lush green mountains and clear waters, like a hidden gem of nature. With an average summer temperature of just around 20°C, while other places are scorching hot, Dongtu Village remains delightfully cool, making you want to just "chill" right there. Moreover, Dongtu Village boasts unique rural scenery—vast rice fields resembling green carpets, with gentle breezes causing the rice to ripple like waves, almost letting you smell the harvest in the air. The village also has many historical legends, including tales of immortals passing through and leaving mysterious traces, adding a touch of mystique to this quaint village. In short, Dongtu Village is a paradise where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy tranquility and beauty. Must-Visit Spots **Rural Scenery Photo Spots: 100% Instagram-Worthy** The expansive rice fields in Dongtu Village are absolutely perfect for photos. In summer, the vibrant green rice seedlings shimmer with life under the sunlight. On a clear day, put on a fresh dress and stroll along the paths beside the fields—with the rippling rice as your backdrop, every shot will look like a scene from a Japanese pastoral film. If you’re lucky enough to catch farmers working in the fields, you can snap some lively, authentic shots. There are also several viewing platforms in the village offering panoramic views of the rural landscape, making them ideal spots for breathtaking wide-angle photos. **Farmhouse Cuisine: A Taste of Countryside Delights** When in Dongtu Village, you must try the local farmhouse dishes. The ingredients are all homegrown vegetables and free-range poultry, making them fresh and healthy. A must-try is the iron pot stew—chicken, pork ribs, or fish slow-cooked in a large iron pot with potatoes, green beans, and glass noodles, creating a hearty, aromatic dish. The firewood cooking gives it an especially rich flavor: the chicken is tender and juicy, the potatoes soft and flavorful, and the noodles soaked in savory broth—each bite is pure bliss. There are also various wild herb salads, freshly picked from the mountains, crisp and refreshing, perfect for balancing the richness of the stew. One meal here will leave you stuffed and craving more. **Folk Culture Experience: Discover Ancient Charms** Dongtu Village is rich in folk culture. Be sure to visit the village’s folk culture museum, which showcases traditional farming tools, handicrafts, and exhibits on local history, offering a deep dive into Dongtu’s past. If you visit during traditional festivals, you’re in for a treat! For example, the dragon and lion dances during Chinese New Year are incredibly lively, with performers in vibrant costumes parading through the streets to the beat of drums and gongs, filling the air with festive joy. During the Dragon Boat Festival, you can join villagers in making zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), learning the traditional craft and taking your creations home—a truly rewarding experience. **Travel Guide** **Best Time to Visit** The ideal time to visit Dongtu Village is from June to August. During these months, the weather is cool, the rural scenery is at its most beautiful, and a variety of fruits and vegetables are ripe for picking, offering plenty of hands-on activities. Many folk events are also held during this period, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. **Recommended Duration** Plan for 2–3 days. This gives you enough time to leisurely enjoy the rural views, savor farmhouse meals, and deeply experience the folk culture without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time, one day is enough for a quick tour, but you might miss out on some activities. **Itinerary Suggestions** **Day 1:** Arrive in Dongtu Village in the morning, check into your pre-booked farmhouse, and settle in. Take some time to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside. For lunch, enjoy authentic farmhouse dishes, especially the iron pot stew. In the afternoon, head to the rice fields for photos and a stroll, admiring the picturesque scenery. In the evening, wander around the village to observe daily life and soak up the rustic charm. End the day in the farmhouse courtyard under the stars, chatting over homemade fruit—pure bliss. **Day 2:** Wake up early to the fresh air and birdsong. Visit the folk culture museum to learn about Dongtu’s history and traditions. For lunch, try another farmhouse restaurant to sample different dishes. In the afternoon, join activities like fruit picking or handicraft workshops. In the evening, gather around a bonfire with villagers for singing and dancing—a joyful way to end the day. **Day 3:** Sleep in, enjoy breakfast, then explore the village market for local specialties like handwoven baskets or homemade pickles. Afterward, pack up and prepare to depart—don’t forget to take home wonderful memories of Dongtu Village! **Accommodation Guide** **Farmhouse Stays: The Best Way to Experience Rural Life** Farmhouse stays are the top choice in Dongtu Village. These are typically converted from villagers’ homes, offering clean, cozy rooms with rustic charm. Staying here lets you experience authentic rural life—waking up to roosters crowing and opening your window to stunning countryside views. The hosts are warm and hospitable, offering great recommendations for activities and food. Prices are affordable, usually around 200–400 CNY per night, including breakfast. Some even provide dinner, letting you savor hearty farmhouse meals. **Boutique Countryside Inns: Comfort and Serenity** For a more upscale stay, check out the village’s boutique countryside inns. These blend rural aesthetics with modern design, featuring spacious, well-equipped rooms. Many have beautiful gardens or viewing decks where you can relax with tea while enjoying the scenery. The service is attentive, with detailed travel tips provided. Prices are higher (500–800 CNY/night), but the experience is worth it for an unforgettable stay. **Tips** **Transportation:** Dongtu Village isn’t directly accessible by public transport, so driving is recommended. From Jiaohe city, follow GPS directions—it’s about an hour’s drive. If you don’t drive, taxis are available but costly. Note that village roads are narrow, so drive carefully and yield to pedestrians. **Sun and Bug Protection:** Though Dongtu is cool in summer, UV rays are strong—pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. The lush greenery also means mosquitoes are plentiful, so bring repellent, especially for evenings outdoors. **Respect Local Customs:** Be mindful of village traditions. During cultural activities, follow organizers’ instructions. Always be polite when interacting with locals—it helps you blend in and leaves a good impression. **Shopping:** At village markets, bargaining is okay but don’t overdo it. Some handmade items may be pricier but are high quality. Check expiration dates and product conditions before buying. **Eco-Friendly Travel:** Help preserve Dongtu’s beauty by not littering—use designated bins. When taking photos in fields, avoid trampling crops. Be a responsible traveler to keep this paradise pristine.