Nong'an

Introducing Nong'an

Nong'an County, nestled in the heart of the Songliao Plain, boasts a rich cultural heritage. The ancient city of Nong'an, once the capital of the Fuyu Kingdom and known historically as "Huanglongfu," boasts a history spanning over 2,000 years.

The ancient towers from the Liao Dynasty that have been preserved to this day and the cultural relics and historical sites scattered throughout the county are powerful witnesses to Nong'an's historical and cultural heritage.

Boluo Lake, the only large natural wetland in Changchun, is known as the "natural lungs of Changchun." Whether under a clear sky or shrouded in mist, at dawn or at dusk, Boluo Lake's vast expanse, dotted with sailboats, offers a breathtaking view from every angle.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, suitable for travel in all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Nong'an Ancient Pagoda

There is an ancient pagoda in Changchun, located at the two gates of Nong'an Town, Nong'an County, 70 kilometers northwest of Changchun. This is the Nong'an Ancient Pagoda, also known as the Buddhist Pagoda, Liao Pagoda, and Golden Pagoda.

Nong'an County was the seat of Huanglongfu during the Jin Dynasty. The Liao and Jin dynasties were the most prosperous periods in the region, leaving behind numerous historical relics. The renovated Vajra Temple, with its elegantly arranged buildings, is a unique example of simplicity and elegance. Yue Fei, the renowned anti-Jin general, famously wrote, "I arrived at Huanglongfu and drank with my troops."

It has brought many tourists here to realize their long-cherished wishes, and has also made many sightseeing tourists drunk in Nong'an.

Ticket price: 20 yuan/person

Opening hours: 8:00-18:00

Tel: 0431-8982014

Polo Lake Tourist Area

This inland closed alkaline freshwater lake is the third largest pond in Jilin Province, the largest freshwater lake in Changchun City, and the only large natural wetland in central Jilin Province. Locals often call it "笸箩潭子" (笸箩潭) because its shallow bottom resembles the large baskets used by farmers in ancient times.

---

Most Popular FAQs for Nong'an

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

Nong’an (农安县) sits within Changchun’s jurisdiction and spans ~5,415 km², with ~1.15 million population. It has ancient roots: in the region of the old Huanglong府 (府治) under the Jin dynasty. The Nong’an Pagoda (also called “Liao Tower / Jin Tower”) is a protected national-level heritage and a key symbol. In recent years, Nong’an has emphasized integrating rural tourism, leisure agriculture, wetland and cultural heritage into its tourism development.

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

Nong’an County lies about 60–70 km northwest of Changchun city. You can reach Nong’an Railway Station by train on the Changbai (长白) railway line — it’s about 66 km from Changchun. From Changchun, regional buses or hired cars/taxis are typical options. There is no metro all the way to Nong’an. Once in Nong’an Town, local buses, taxis, or walking cover the main sites.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Official opening hours are not well documented for most sites. Daylight hours (≈ 8:30–17:00) are safest for visiting. Best season: late spring to early autumn (May–October), when weather is mild and landscapes green. Autumn colors can add beauty. Winters are harsh and may restrict access.

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

I did not find confirmed information on ticket prices or online ticketing for the main attractions (pagoda, temple, parks). Some sites may be free or charge a modest local fee, purchased on site.

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

Because the attractions are mostly smaller local or rural ones, advance booking is generally not necessary. For popular sites or in busy seasons, booking a day ahead may help, but in practice walk-in should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To visit the main sites in Nong’an (pagoda, temple, park, cultural ruins, lake), allocate half a day (3–4 hours). If combining with adjacent areas or more leisure stops, a full day is ideal.

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

• Nong’an Ancient Pagoda (historic tower)
• Jin’gang Temple
• Taipingchi Wetland / natural park
• Liao-Jin Cultural Park / Huanglong府 ruins
• Longtan Park / scenic green spaces

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

I found no evidence of formal guided tours or audio guides (especially in foreign languages) for Nong’an attractions. Local tourism offices might provide Chinese guides or arrange custom tours on request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Excellent photo spots include the Ancient Pagoda (especially from mid-distance to capture full height), lakes and wetlands (Taipingchi, Boluo), landscapes in Longtan Park, and the cultural park ruins at dusk or golden hour.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Sample route:

1. Arrive in Nong’an Town, start at Ancient Pagoda (west side of town)
2. Proceed to Jin’gang Temple nearby
3. Head to Taipingchi Wetland / lake area for nature walk
4. Visit Liao-Jin Cultural Park / Huanglong ruins
5. Finish with Longtan Park or commercial street in town

Add stops like Chenjiadian Garden or sweeping landscape corners if time allows.

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

There is no widely documented night lighting, light shows, or special after-dark tours for these sites. Most activities operate during daytime.

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

Nong’an is relatively quiet compared to popular tourist hubs. It is seldom crowded outside peak holiday periods. For a quieter experience, go on weekdays and avoid national holidays (e.g. Golden Week).

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

In the town and by main attractions, there should be basic facilities: restrooms, small shops, stalls, rest areas. In more remote or ruin areas, facilities may be sparse — bring water and snacks.

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

Because many sites are old, with uneven paths and open terrain, accessibility may be limited. Elderly or visitors with limited mobility should proceed cautiously. Children are typically fine if supervised.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Local shops, small attractions, and rural areas often accept cash (RMB). In more developed parts (town shops, restaurants), mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) or bank cards may also work. It’s safest to carry some cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

In Nong’an Town you’ll find local Chinese restaurants, snack shops, and small eateries along the main commercial streets. They serve regional cuisine and typical northeastern Chinese dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Specific vegetarian, vegan, or halal restaurants are not well documented. You are more likely to find vegetable-based dishes, tofu, or simple vegetarian options in standard local restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nong’an has local hotels, guesthouses, inns of modest to midrange standard. Alternatively, one could stay in Changchun and make a day trip to Nong’an.

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

Combined attractions include:

• The Puppet / Manchurian Regime Palace Museum in Changchun (偽满皇宫博物院) — a major historical site.
• Changchun’s Zoological & Botanical Park
• Jingyuetan National Forest Park in Changchun (forest, trails)
• Within Nong’an itself: Chenjiadian Garden, Sword-Peng Hot Spring Resort, etc.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

On pedestrian/commercial streets you may find small shops selling local handicrafts, postcards, decorative items, and agricultural specialty products of the region.

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

After visiting Nong’an, you can return to Changchun by train or bus. From Changchun, there are high-speed rail, regional trains, expressways, and flights to onward destinations.