Changbai Mountain Tianchi

Tianchi lies inside a volcanic crater, enclosed by a ring of high peaks. In clear weather, deep blue water looks like a mirror set into the summit; when cloud lowers, both the lake and far ridge can disappear quickly. The ascent is part of the change in scenery: forest gives way to alpine tundra and cold wind. Check weather and access notices, and allow for the possibility that the lake stays hidden.