Imagine leaving crowded tourist spots behind and cruising along the picturesque G331 Border Highway in your dream vehicle, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of the China-North Korea border. This vision is now a reality. On September 23, the Jilin Provincial Department of Transport announced the full launch of a self-drive service system along the G331 Border Tourism Corridor, designed to enhance the travel experience and unlock the potential of this stunning route.

With the upcoming simultaneous opening of the Shenyang-Baishan High-Speed Rail and the G331 corridor, the department has implemented a comprehensive transportation plan based on passenger flow projections. Small and medium-sized rental vehicles have been identified as a key component to improve travel flexibility. After analyzing the terrain and cultural resources along the route, seven cities—including Tonghua, Baishan, and Changbai Mountain—were selected as priority locations for rental car hubs.

To ensure smooth transitions between transport modes, rental vehicles are now available at major hubs such as Changbai Mountain Airport, Changbai Mountain High-Speed Rail Station, and Tonghua High-Speed Rail Station. This creates an integrated network combining rail, air, and road travel. Currently, 13 online rental portals and over 25 physical service points across seven cities are operational. Notably, the corridor and high-speed rail line both support “online bookings with cross-city drop-offs,” significantly boosting travel convenience.

Anticipating surges in tourism, authorities have preemptively coordinated with service providers to optimize online platforms and offline infrastructure. An emergency vehicle dispatch system has been established to address sudden spikes in demand, particularly in popular destinations. Backup fleets totaling 1,500 vehicles are stationed in Changchun, Jilin City, and Dunhua, ready for dynamic redistribution based on real-time needs.

The completion of the G331 self-drive system marks a major step in Jilin’s efforts to elevate tourism services and promote regional development. By integrating digital and physical resources, streamlining processes, and implementing robust contingency measures, the province aims to transform the highway into a premier route for sightseeing, leisure, and cultural immersion—showcasing Jilin’s unique appeal to domestic and international visitors alike.