The capital of Jilin Province, located in the northeast of the People's Republic of China. Changchun is situated in the centre of the Songliao Plain.

Changchun was established as a trading town. The city was severely damaged during World War II and was taken by the Soviet Red Army in 1945. After a five-month long siege by the People's Liberation Army, Changchun fell to communist rule in 1948.

Changchun was originally designated to become a centre for the China's automobile industry. As of 2009, the city produced 9% of the country's automobiles. Other industries that contribute to the local economy include photoelectronic information, medicine, biology and food products.

In 2010, the provincial city of Changchun was estimated to have a total population of 7,677,089. The city is home to several colleges and universities and thus hosts a generous student population as well.