Qian Gorlos County

Introducing Qian Gorlos County

Qianguoerlos Mongol Autonomous County (Qianguo County for short) is located in northwestern Jilin Province, on the southern Songnen Plain. It belongs to Songyuan City, Jilin Province, and shares its seat with the city. Qianguo County serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Songyuan City. Major attractions include Tahucheng, an ancient Liao and Jin dynasty city site; a Qing Dynasty stele with Manchu and Mongolian inscriptions; the mausoleum of Empress Xiaozhuang; and the Chagan Lake tourist area.

The most famous of these is the annual Chagan Lake winter fishing.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental monsoon climate, the best time to travel is from December to February of the following year

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Jilin Chagan Lake National Nature Reserve

Chagan Lake is 37 kilometers long with a winding shoreline. It is one of the top ten freshwater lakes in the country and the largest inland lake in Jilin Province.

The environment is beautiful, the scenery is charming, and the flora and fauna are abundant. In summer, Chagan Lake is full of blue waves, green grass, and the lake and sky are one color. You can take a boat trip there.

The winter fishing scene is unique and spectacular, with thousands of people working on the ice, dozens of motor vehicles transporting fish day and night, and hundreds of thousands of kilograms of fresh fish breaking through the ice. The scene is the best in the country.

Winter fishing is carried out from mid-December to late January of the following year (before the Spring Festival). Before fishing, rituals such as dancing to worship the lake and waking up the nets are held.

The temperature here is very low in winter and the lake is frozen. It is recommended to wear more clothes, keep warm and avoid slipping.

Tickets: 25/person

Opening hours: 8:00-18:00

Recommended play time: more than 3 hours

Tel: 0438-2990055

Miaoyin Temple

The only Tibetan Buddhist temple in Jilin Province, the hall adopts a combination of Han and Tibetan features and follows the traditional Chinese central axis symmetrical architectural pattern, with a unique architecture.

The entire temple has white walls, green tiles and a golden roof. The brown-red side walls are set against the golden bronze mirror, temple emblem, pagoda and Dharma wheel, which is magnificent.

The Main Hall is the central building of Miaoyin Temple. A three-story hall stands on a white platform, and the main deity is the golden body of the Three Buddhas.

The Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas is the tallest and largest Buddhist hall in the temple, and is a combination of Han and Tibetan architecture.

Tickets: 5/person

Opening hours: 8:00-18:00

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Gorlos Palace

The Gorlos Palace is located on the shore of the beautiful Chagan Lake. It is a large ancient building complex imitating the Qing Dynasty and is a rare palace-style mansion in Mongolia.

The entire palace has a rigorous layout and is magnificent. It is based on courtyards with six entrances and six exits, presenting the profound, luxurious and magnificent characteristics of the famous palace in the northern frontier.

Tickets: 35/person

Opening hours: 07:00-18:00

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tel: (0438)2123309

Fishing and Hunting Culture Museum

The Fishing and Hunting Culture Museum fully displays the fishing and hunting history of Chagan Lake for more than 10,000 years, vividly shows the natural resources and natural history of Chagan Lake, and summarizes the fishing and hunting culture of the world and the fishing and hunting culture of southern and northern China based on their cultural homology.

Tickets: 35/person

Opening hours: 08:30-17:00

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Telephone:(0438)2990055

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Most Popular FAQs for Qian Gorlos County

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Qian Gorlos County is a region with deep historical roots, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. It has been home to various ethnic groups, including the Manchu, and offers insights into traditional Chinese rural life. Its significance lies in both its historical landmarks and its unique natural environment.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Qian Gorlos County is located in Jilin Province, northeastern China. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car from the nearest major city, which is Changchun. Public transport options like buses are available, though they may require transfers. Walking or cycling is an option once in the area, especially for exploring the local countryside.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Qian Gorlos County is a natural destination without specific opening hours. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer is ideal for witnessing vibrant local festivals, while winter offers a chance to see snow-covered landscapes.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is typically no entrance fee for visiting Qian Gorlos County. However, some specific attractions or cultural sites may charge a nominal fee. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site or online via local ticketing platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is not usually necessary, except for special events or festivals. If visiting a specific cultural or historical site, it's advisable to book a few days ahead during peak travel seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the main attractions of Qian Gorlos County can take a full day, especially if you plan to visit local cultural sites and take nature walks. If you are interested in longer hikes or additional experiences, such as festivals, you might need 2–3 days.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The local ethnic villages, which offer a glimpse into traditional life and customs.
• Natural scenic spots, including the surrounding hills and forests.
• Cultural festivals or local performances showcasing traditional music and dance.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available, especially during tourist seasons. Local guides can provide insightful information about the region's history, culture, and nature. Tours are typically available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be available on request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The hills surrounding the county provide stunning panoramic views of the landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Local villages, with traditional architecture and scenic surroundings, are great spots for capturing the essence of rural life.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit with a tour of the local villages, followed by a hike to the nearest hilltop for sweeping views of the area. Conclude your day by exploring cultural sites or enjoying a local performance or festival.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not a typical feature of Qian Gorlos County. However, special tours or events may be available during festivals, providing a unique cultural experience in the evening.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Qian Gorlos County can be relatively peaceful, but it can get crowded during local festivals or national holidays. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are weekdays or during the off-peak seasons in spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic facilities like toilets are available near major attractions and cultural sites.
• Local food options are available in the villages, offering traditional Chinese dishes.
• Shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs can be found in and around the tourist areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain in Qian Gorlos County can be rugged, with uneven paths. While some areas are accessible to children and elderly visitors, certain spots may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still commonly used in local markets and small shops. However, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly accepted in more developed areas and during peak tourist seasons.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Traditional Chinese restaurants serving local and regional specialties are available in nearby towns. Cafes and smaller eateries may also be found near tourist spots.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, but some local eateries cater to specific dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and local hotels are available in Qian Gorlos County and surrounding areas.
• For more luxurious stays, hotels in Changchun offer a variety of options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Changchun, with its cultural and historical landmarks, is a nearby city worth visiting.
• Other scenic areas in Jilin Province, such as the Changbai Mountain, can be combined for a longer trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in the area offer local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and ethnic jewelry. You can also find regional teas and locally made textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Qian Gorlos County, taxis or buses can take you to Changchun or nearby attractions. For longer journeys, trains and flights from Changchun provide access to other major cities in China.