Mudanjiang

Mirror Lake

From Harbin it's a 4/6 hour train ride depending on the speed of the train but it's much cheaper than a coach at around 60RMB one way!

With no guide book we easily found a hotel across from Mud. station which ran mini-buses to the lake. Beware, they'll drive around town for an hour or more if business is slow before they finally head off for another 3-4hours drive.

In the busy season try and book ahead or with an agent in an hotel, otherwise you'll be put up in a foreigners designated hotel which can bump up the price. Food can also be a trifle dear, (he he...no pun intended).

If you're lucky you'll see the local diving expert throw himself into the plunge pool under the waterfall, oh, and you'll only get the cascades of water seen in most publicity photos after heavy rain or snow melt.

It's a lovely peaceful part of the NE and romantic too if you're that way inclined. October is a good time for less people, it's still just warm enough to enjoy a pleasant boat cruise and gentle walks.
We did a tour due to lack of time in preparation however it still only came to 200RMB/pp for 3 days all inclusive from Mud.