Kaishantun Border Port in Longjing, Jilin
Kaishantun Border Port (开山屯口岸) is a vital land border crossing between China and North Korea, located in the eastern part of Longjing City (龙井市), Jilin Province (吉林省), China. The port is situated along the Tumen River (图们江), facing the North Korean Samphung Port (三峰口岸) in North Hamgyong Province (咸镜北道). The port has played an important role in facilitating trade and travel between the two countries and is a critical link in the region’s economic and cultural exchanges.
Key Statistics:
Location: Kaishantun Town, Longjing City, Jilin Province, China
Opened: 1933 (originally built during the Japanese occupation)
Port Type: National Class I Road Port (国家级公路口岸)
Annual Cargo Capacity: 100,000 tons
Annual Passenger Capacity: 50,000 people
Bridge Type: Road-Rail Dual-Use Bridge (公路铁路两用桥)
Distance from Key Locations:
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120 km from Chongjin Port (清津港) in North Korea
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96 km from Rajin Port (罗津港), North Korea
History and Development
Early History:
The port was first established in 1933 during the Japanese occupation, originally built as a dual-use road and railway bridge. It served as an important route for both road and rail transportation.
Modernization:
1951: The port was officially opened to foreign trade and a joint inspection office was set up.
1993: After being temporarily closed for railway services, the port resumed cargo transportation, but the railway function remained suspended.
2016: The port was severely damaged by Typhoon Lionrock, but it became the first port in Jilin Province to restore operations after a disaster. Post-repair, the port implemented load-limiting and speed-reducing measures for safety.
2023: The port’s infrastructure, including the border bridge, inspection booths, and boundary markers, was confirmed to be in good condition during a site inspection.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Key Infrastructure:
Border Bridge: The main border bridge is 443 meters long and 6 meters wide, originally designed as a dual-use road and railway bridge, but now only used for road traffic.
Inspection Areas: The port includes a cargo inspection center, passenger inspection hall, and customs supervision area. Plans are underway to build additional logistics facilities.
Surrounding Services: Local amenities include hotels like the Guiqin Hotel (桂琴酒店) and restaurants such as Xin Hai Dog Meat Restaurant (鑫海狗肉馆), catering to travelers and workers.
Upcoming Developments:
2024: The port will undergo comprehensive improvements, including a new logistics center and additional inspection facilities.
Expansion of Logistics Hub: The port is part of Longjing’s broader plans to develop a processing and logistics park, projected to generate an annual sales income of 219 million RMB.
Trade and Economy
Main Exports and Imports:
Exports: The port mainly handles the export of grains, oils, agricultural products, hardware, and seafood.
Imports: The main imports include industrial goods, raw materials, and everyday products.
Trade Volume: In 2014, Longjing City’s total foreign trade imports and exports amounted to 67.36 million USD, showing a 5% year-over-year increase.
Future Economic Plans: A new logistics park project in 2025 will focus on light industry products and Chinese herbal medicine processing, with an estimated annual sales revenue of 219 million RMB.
Border Crossing Management
Crossing Protocols:
Weight Limits: Cargo vehicles are limited to a maximum load of 15 tons.
Speed Limits: The maximum speed at the border is restricted to 15 km/h.
Operating Hours: The port operates daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Passenger Traffic: In 2023, the port processed an average of 50,000 passengers annually.
Cultural and Tourism Development
Red Tourism:
Kaishantun Border Port is part of the G331 National Road (G331国道) red tourism route. It offers an opportunity for visitors to experience the historical and cultural significance of the region, particularly the local “Red Education” centers.
Nearby Attractions:
Guitian Hotel: A popular lodging option for visitors traveling through the port area.
Xin Hai Dog Meat Restaurant: A local restaurant specializing in a regional delicacy.
Wangjiang Pavilion: A scenic spot offering views of the Tumen River and North Korea’s Samphung District.
Development of Education and Tourism:
Integration with Local Education: The port area is being integrated into a broader development plan linking the local education base with tourism. Special programs, such as the “Hundred Festivals” museum in Guangzhao Village (光昭村), are being developed for study tours.
Mixed Development Model: Plans include a model that integrates border trade, red tourism, and industry, promoting both economic growth and cultural education.
