Welcome to Changchun:

You will find life easier here if you leave your preconceptions and prejudices at home.

Though, officially, people are allowed to openly discuss politics and religion, it is not advised. You are not being watched directly, but you will be reported, perhaps by the person you least think capable.

Take care when taking photographs. Someone may be offended by what you consider to be cute. Photographing official buildings and military service person or equipment is not a good idea.

Public toilets are often a tiled trench that is periodically flushed, if water is available, or squat toilets that are rarely cleaned. You get used to the smell. Clean toilets can be found in good hotels, well maintained public buildings, and places like KFC.

There are too many good things about being in this part of the world to let a few inconveniences bother you. Remember that China is a developing country and the rural cultural influence even in the city is strong.

You will enjoy your stay in Changchun. It is becoming very westernised, so you will find many home comforts. Life in Changchun is also quite traditional, there are public dances in many parks and squares in the evening.

A large migrant population of farm labourers within the city or nearby give the city a somewhat rural flavour. You can see stretch limousines and donkey carts jostling for position at busy intersections.

Traffic can be dangerous. Stay off the road if you can until you get 'into the flow'. Certainly take extreme caution when walking on or near the road. If you remain cautious you will be OK and have nothing but fond memories of your time here.

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