Core Insights - Hunchun, a city located at the intersection of China, North Korea, and Russia, is experiencing a surge in cross-border tourism and trade, becoming a cultural melting pot and a hub for international medical services and seafood trade [2][9][10]. Group 1: Cross-Border Tourism - Hunchun has become a popular destination for Russian tourists, with over 3300 visitors celebrating New Year in 2025, and the city receiving more than 30 million inbound visits in 2024, primarily from Russia [9][10]. - The city offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, including traditional markets, ethnic cuisine, and Chinese medicine practices, attracting tourists who enjoy a "city-hopping" vacation style [10][11]. - Local travel agencies have reported significant growth in Russian tourist numbers, with over 20,000 visitors in the first half of the year alone [9]. Group 2: Traditional Medicine - Hunchun is witnessing a rise in the popularity of traditional Chinese medicine, particularly Mantu (Manchu) moxibustion therapy, with thousands of foreign patients, mainly from Russia, seeking treatment [5][6]. - The establishment of an international business department in Hunchun's Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital aims to enhance the medical experience for Russian patients, providing comprehensive services including translation [6]. - The local practitioner, Han Shiming, has treated numerous Russian patients, adapting treatments to better suit their needs, and has seen a significant increase in demand for his services [5][6]. Group 3: Seafood Trade - Hunchun has become the largest distribution center for live king crabs in China, importing over 1.5 million crabs annually, which accounts for approximately 80% of the national market share [7][8]. - The city's cross-border e-commerce trade has seen exponential growth, with trade volume increasing from 43 million RMB in 2018 to 6.65 billion RMB in 2024, driven by the booming demand for king crabs [8]. - Hunchun is developing a comprehensive ecosystem for cross-border e-commerce, including logistics and customs facilitation, to support the seafood trade and other industries [8]. Group 4: Cultural Exchange - Hunchun serves as a platform for cultural exchange, with various events and activities promoting interaction between Chinese and Russian communities, enhancing mutual understanding [10][11]. - The city has implemented measures to facilitate communication and commerce, such as multilingual signage and friendly local service, making it easier for Russian tourists to navigate and enjoy their stay [10][11]. - Ongoing cultural initiatives, including joint projects between Chinese and Russian students, are fostering deeper connections and a sense of community across borders [10].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the successful entrepreneurial journey of Wang Hai, who capitalized on the geographical advantages of Hunchun to establish a thriving business in the king crab trade, attracting both tourists and local entrepreneurs [1][2]. Group 1: Business Overview - Wang Hai returned to his hometown of Hunchun seven years ago to explore entrepreneurial opportunities, leveraging the area's unique geographical position [1][3]. - Hunchun is the largest distribution center for king crabs in China, with over 1.5 million king crabs imported annually through its port, accounting for 80% of the national market share [4]. - The king crab exhibition hall operated by Wang Hai has attracted over 500,000 visitors in less than two years, generating retail sales exceeding 10 million yuan [4][10]. Group 2: Logistics and Operations - Wang Hai utilizes various logistics methods to transport fresh king crabs from Russia to different parts of China, benefiting from the proximity of Hunchun to Russian ports [5]. - The port has been designated for the import of fresh seafood, which has streamlined customs processes and reduced transportation times for seafood businesses [5]. - The handling of king crabs requires careful attention to temperature and oxygen levels during transportation to maintain freshness [5]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The king crab market experiences significant price fluctuations, influenced by the fishing schedules of Russian vessels, necessitating timely communication with clients [6]. - Local entrepreneurs, primarily from the post-80s and post-90s generations, are innovating in the seafood market by utilizing live streaming and creative dishes to attract customers [9]. Group 4: Tourism and Cultural Promotion - The seafood street in Hunchun, featuring over 20 shops, has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to enjoy king crab dishes [7][8]. - The local tourism boom has led to increased foot traffic in seafood restaurants, with some establishments reporting significant daily revenues during peak holiday periods [9]. - Wang Hai aims to promote king crab culture nationwide through creative products and collaborations with other businesses [12].