The Oriental Riverside Market in Yanji of Jilin Province is one of the city's most iconic morning markets. It is named "Riverside Market" because it was built along the Yanji River. The market is known for selling Korean ethnic specialty foods such as tteok (rice cakes), kimchi, blood sausage, and glutinous rice chicken. With its strong Korean cultural atmosphere and lively street energy, the market is not only a great place for visitors to experience local customs and try regional delicacies, but also a popular destination for photographers seeking vibrant scenes.

Oriental Riverside Market

Glutinous Rice Chicken

A whole chicken is steamed with glutinous rice, ginseng, red dates, and other ingredients inside a large wooden barrel. The chicken becomes tender enough to fall off the bone, while the sticky rice absorbs the rich chicken broth, creating a warming and comforting breakfast dish.

Blood Sausage

Made by stuffing pig intestines with glutinous rice, pig's blood, and seasonings, then steaming it. The texture is firm and savory, and it tastes even better when dipped in soy sauce.

Tteok (Pounded Rice Cake)

Steamed glutinous rice is repeatedly pounded with a large wooden mallet, then coated with soybean flour, red bean paste, or perilla powder. The texture is soft and chewy, sweet but not overly rich.

Tourists selecting kimchi at the Oriental Riverside Market

Varieties of kimchi and pickled vegetables sold at the Oriental Riverside Market

Kimchi and Pickled Vegetables

The market offers many types of kimchi, such as balloon flower root, spicy cabbage, and radish cubes. Free samples are available for tasting. Many vendors also provide vacuum packaging for convenient takeaway.

Visitors enjoying breakfast at the Oriental Riverside Market

Tips：

1. The Oriental Riverside Market has limited operating hours. It typically opens at 5:00 a.m. and closes at 9:30 a.m. Visitors hoping to experience Yanji's lively early-morning atmosphere should plan their time accordingly.

2. If you wish to purchase kimchi, rice wine, frozen pears, or other items that are not easy to carry, you can ask the vendors to ship them for you to lighten your travel load.