Changbai Mountains


The Changbai Mountains are a major mountain range in Northeast Asia. The mountains extend from the Northeast Chinese provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin and Liaoning, across the border between China and North Korea, to the North Korean provinces of Ryanggang and Chagang. They are also referred to as the Šanggiyan, Jangbaek, or Ohnan mountains. Most peaks exceed in height, with the highest being the Paektu Mountain.

History

The range represents the mythical birthplace of Bukūri Yongšon, ancestor of Nurgaci and the Aisin Gioro imperial family, who were the founders of the Manchu state and the Qing dynasty of China. The Chinese name literally means "Perpetually-White Mountain Region".

Geography and climate

The mountains are the source of the Songhua, Tumen, and Yalu Rivers.
The Changbai Mountains are characterized by long and cold winters. Precipitation is low in the winter but higher in the summer and autumn with annual averages reaching as high as.

Flora and fauna

The vegetation of the mountain slopes is divided into several different zones. At the top, above 2,000 metres, tundra predominates. From 1,700 to 2,000 metres, vegetation is dominated by mountain birch and larch. Below this zone, and down to 1,100 metres, the dominant trees are spruce, fir, and Korean pine. From 600 to 1,100 metres, the landscape is dominated by mixed forest, consisting of Amur linden, Korean pine, maple, and elm. Further down, a temperate hardwood forest is found, dominated by second-growth poplar and birch.

Protected areas

The Changbai Mountains is mentioned in the first verse of the de facto national anthem of North Korea, Song of General Kim Il-sung. It is mentioned in the Korean name, Jangbaek.