Hui Lin
What You'll Find Here
I've been leading history tours in Changchun for over a decade, and the Eight Departments of Manchukuo never fail to spark curiosity. These eight imposing buildings along Xinmin Street are the physical remains of Japan's puppet state in the 1930s and 40s. Foreign visitors often ask me: “How do I actually see them? Are they open to the public?” Let me break it down from a guide's perspective – no fluff, just actionable info.
What Exactly Are the Eight Departments?
The “Eight Departments” were the ministries of the Manchukuo government: Military, Justice, Economy, Transportation, Education, Foreign Affairs, Civil Affairs, and Agriculture. Built between 1932 and 1937, they line both sides of Xinmin Street, forming one of Asia's most complete collections of eclectic colonial architecture – think a mix of Japanese imperial style, European neoclassicism, and early modernist touches.
Quick fact: The buildings are still in use today – many are part of Jilin University's hospital system and other government institutions. That means you can usually walk around the exteriors freely, but interior access is limited.
Where Are They Located & How to Get There
All eight buildings sit along Xinmin Street in the Chaoyang District of Changchun. The stretch is about 1.5 km long, so expect a pleasant 20-minute walk from one end to the other.
Getting There by Metro
Take Line 2 to Culture Square Station, Exit A. You'll emerge right at the northern end of Xinmin Street, facing the former Military Department building. Cost: about 4 CNY (less than 1 USD).
Getting There by Taxi
From Changchun Railway Station, it's a 20-minute ride – around 25 CNY. Show the driver: “新民大街历史建筑群”. Most drivers know the area.
| Building Name (Original) | Current Use | Address (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Military Department | Jilin University First Hospital | 71 Xinmin Street |
| Justice Department | Jilin University Medical College | 79 Xinmin Street |
| Economy Department | Jilin University Hospital | 2 Xinmin Street |
| Transportation Department | Changchun Railway Bureau Office | 8 Xinmin Street |
| Education Department | Jilin University Building | 6 Xinmin Street |
| Foreign Affairs Department | Jilin University Hospital | 5 Xinmin Street |
| Civil Affairs Department | Jilin University Building | 7 Xinmin Street |
| Agriculture Department | Jilin Agricultural University Office | 13 Xinmin Street |
Can You Go Inside? (And What Most Guides Don't Tell You)
Here's the honest truth: only a couple of these buildings allow public entry, and even then, access is limited to certain areas.
- The former Military Department (now a hospital) – you can walk into the lobby and the first-floor corridor. Security guards are used to tourists, but avoid disturbing patients.
- The Justice Department – sometimes open during university events; otherwise, you'll have to admire the exterior.
- The Economy Department – a portion is a museum (Manchukuo Economy Hall), open Tuesday–Sunday 9:00–16:00. Admission: 30 CNY. You can see original furniture and exhibits on wartime economy.
My insider tip: Don't try to sneak into restricted areas – guards are strict, and you might be asked to leave the whole street. Stick to the exteriors, which are photogenic enough! The real value is the architectural details: the carved stone eagles, Japanese-style copper roofs, and iron gates.
Best Time to Visit – Beat the Crowds and the Sun
Most Chinese tour groups arrive between 10:00 and 14:00. I always advise my guests to start around 15:30. Why? The afternoon light hits the west-facing facades beautifully, and by the time you finish one end, the golden hour (around 17:00) gives you stunning photo opportunities. Also, the hospital outpatient traffic drops after 16:00, so you'll have more space.
Weather Warning
Summer (June–August) is hot and humid – bring water and a hat. Winter (December–February) is brutally cold (-20°C is common). Dress in layers and consider hand warmers. Spring and autumn are ideal, especially May and September.
Nearby Attractions & Suggested Route
After exploring the Eight Departments, you're perfectly positioned for a half-day itinerary:
- Culture Square – right at the north end of Xinmin Street. A huge open square with a statue of Chairman Mao. Great for people-watching.
- Puppet Emperor's Palace (Wei Huang Gong) – about 2 km east. Take bus 80 or taxi (10 min, 12 CNY). This is the main attraction for Manchukuo history, and it's a full museum open to all.
- Changchun World Sculpture Park – 3 km south. If you have extra time, it's a pleasant walk or short taxi ride.
Plan B for bad weather: Head to the Jilin University Geology Museum (inside the former Agriculture Department building). It's rarely crowded, admission is 10 CNY, and you'll see dinosaur fossils plus the original ministry's meeting room – a great indoor alternative.
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