This is our second attempt climbing Changbai Mountain (長白山), after the first try last October. The Heavenly Lake (天池) at the very top is notoriously shy, usually hiding behind thick fog and bad weather. But with tremendous luck, the clouds parted and the stunning turquoise water revealed itself the exact moment we reached the summit after climbing 1,442 steps! Nestled inside an ancient volcanic caldera, it is officially the highest volcanic lake in the world at over 2,189 meters, as well as the deepest lake in China.
Van life in China: this is the best caravan park so far. Every vehicle gets a spacious designated spot with water and electricity and parking is free. Northeast China is incredibly accommodating and friendly to camper vans!Few vans here, as the summer holidays haven’t officially started.Daisy was very chilled in the caravan park too.Breakfast with Daisy on the morning of our big climb up Changbai Mountain!Warning before climbing up the 1442 steps.This photo was taken just before the climb. As you can tell, we weren’t exactly thrilled — thick clouds were gathering over the peak…In China, one can surely find five-star service anywhere even at the top of Changbai Mountain.We did the climb in 40 minutes.We were absolutely thrilled when we reached the summit! The clouds were dispersing right before our eyes.Akie is the happiest one amongst the crowd!The clouds parted and the sky opened up the moment we reached the summit!We’ve doen it!This is the best accessible spots to see the lake.No champagne? No problem! We opened a banana to celebrate.Another view from the peak.The view on the way down.
