Nanping Border Port in Helong, Jilin

Nanping Border Port (南坪口岸) is a significant land border crossing located in Nanping Town (南坪镇), Helong City (和龙市), Jilin Province (吉林省), China. It connects to North Korea’s Sinsang Port (七星里口岸) in the North Hamgyong Province (咸镜北道茂山郡), separated by the Tumen River (图们江). The port was established in December 1929 and officially opened for international trade in 1951.

This port has historically served as a critical logistics route during the Korean War, providing a vital supply line for the volunteer army. Today, it is an important trade hub between China and North Korea, with infrastructure improvements and modernization continuing to enhance its role in regional trade.

Key Statistics:

  • Location: Nanping Town, Helong City, Jilin Province, China

  • Opened: December 1929; opened for international trade in 1951

  • Port Type: National Class I Border Port (国家客货双边口岸)

  • Design Capacity: 533,000 tons of goods and 32,000 passengers annually

  • Connection: Direct connection to North Korea’s Sinsang Port (七星里口岸)

  • Region: Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin Province (吉林省延边朝鲜族自治州)

History and Development

Early History:

Nanping Border Port has a long-standing history, dating back to its establishment in 1929. Originally, it served as a customs checkpoint, and later became a critical point for logistics and border control between China and North Korea. In the 1950s, it gained strategic importance, especially during the Korean War, when it served as a key supply route for the Chinese volunteer army.

Modernization:

  • 1980s: Served as a bilateral trade route, with a focus on goods and passenger transport.

  • 2005: Nanping Port became the leading land border port for trade between Jilin Province and North Korea.

  • 2010: Handled 533,000 tons of cargo and 32,000 passengers, further solidifying its importance in cross-border trade.

  • Recent Upgrades: Infrastructure developments, including a new inspection building, customs facilities, and improved transportation links, continue to improve efficiency and capacity.

Infrastructure and Operations

Facilities:

  • Inspection Building: The port features a 6,310-square-meter inspection building equipped with modern inspection facilities and a one-stop smart clearance system.

  • Bridge: The Nanping Border Bridge connects China and North Korea, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers.

  • Upgrades: In 2024, a renovation project for the inspection site will be launched, with an investment of 1.05 million RMB.

Trade and Transport:

  • Exports: The port exports a wide range of goods including steel, mining machinery, grains, coke, and gasoline.

  • Imports: The primary imports include iron ore concentrates, pig iron, coal, and timber.

  • Trade Volume: Since 2005, Nanping has consistently ranked as the top land port for trade between Jilin Province and North Korea. During the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020), the total volume of imported and exported goods reached 1.793 million tons.

Economic and Strategic Importance

Regional Role:

Nanping Border Port plays a crucial role in regional trade, particularly for the transportation of iron ore and other critical resources. Located just 84 kilometers from North Korea’s Chongjin City (清津市), it is a key part of the land-based logistics network for the region. The port is especially vital for iron ore transportation, with North Korea’s rich deposits of iron ore contributing to the growing trade volumes.

Future Developments:

The port is integrated into the national “Border Development and Opening” plan, which aims to further enhance the port’s capacity and role as a regional logistics hub. A new customs and logistics center is planned, alongside a provincial-level trade area for border residents. This will improve the port’s ability to handle growing trade volumes and expand its capacity.

Cultural and Community Features

Ethnic Unity:

The Nanping Border Inspection Station follows the “Love the People, Strengthen the Border” policy to serve the local Korean ethnic population (98.5%). The station has been recognized as a “Demonstration Unit of Ethnic Unity and Progress” in Jilin Province.

Tourism and Local Attractions

Nearby Attractions:

  • Scenic Views: The port is located near National Route 331 (331国道), offering travelers the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the China-North Korea border.

  • Cultural Sites: The area is home to important cultural landmarks, including border monuments and historical sites related to the defense of the border.

Travel Tips:

  • Required Documents: Passports or border passes are required for entry.

  • Drone Policy: Drone photography is subject to approval.

  • Travel Information: It is recommended to check the Hunchun City government website for the latest travel policies before visiting.