Changling

Introducing Changling

Changling County is a county under the administration of Songyuan City, Jilin Province. It is located in the western part of Jilin Province and the southwest of Songyuan City. It borders Nong'an County to the east, Gongzhuling City and Shuangliao City to the south, Horqin Left Middle Banner of Inner Mongolia to the west, and Tongyu, Qian'an and Qian Gorlos Mongol Autonomous County to the north.

Changling County's famous scenic spots include the Longfeng Mountain Scenic Area. In 2013, the Longfeng Lake Wetland was approved as a provincial nature reserve by the Jilin Provincial Government.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental monsoon climate, suitable for travel all year round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Longfeng Mountain Scenic Area

Located on the western slopes of the Zhangguangcai Range in the Changbai Mountains, 50 kilometers southeast of Wuchang City and 160 kilometers from Harbin, it is one of Heilongjiang Province's largest scenic spots and a national forest park, covering a total area of ​​240 square kilometers. It is divided into six functional tourist areas: Qianhu Scenic Area, Fenghuang Mountain Scenic Area, Fengchu Bay Scenic Area, Hongya Bay Scenic Area, Wolong Mountain Scenic Area, and Zhongyang Mountain Scenic Area.

Yaojingzi Nature Reserve

This nature reserve primarily protects Leymus chinensis steppes. Located in the northwest of Changling County, 75 kilometers from the county seat, it borders Changling County, Qian'an County, and Qian Gorlos Mongol Autonomous County. Oval in shape, it stretches 20 kilometers from east to west and 14 kilometers from north to south. It falls under the jurisdiction of No. 30 Township, Changling County, and covers a total area of ​​23,800 hectares. Over 300 plant species are found within the area, with the main vegetation types including sparse elm forests, Leymus chinensis, Lycoris radiata with stigmata, Stipa grandis, and salt-rich communities. Leymus chinensis steppes are the most widespread and largest, making it the largest Leymus chinensis steppe in Jilin Province.

Changling County Longfeng Lake Wetland Reserve

This is a wildlife paradise, a bird paradise, and a sea of ​​reeds. The lakeside wetlands are home to over 20 species of wildlife, including foxes, rabbits, and badgers, and over 30 rare bird species, including swans and grey cranes. The sheer number and density of wildlife here are rare in the province and beyond. The reed marshes of the Longfeng Lake Water Conservancy Scenic Area are known to visitors as a "wandering green maze."

Nanchengzi Stone Carvings

Located 5 kilometers south of Fuqingchangtun, the seat of Qianjin Township government in Changling County, the ancient city is trapezoidal in shape, oriented 50 degrees south-east. Surrounding the city walls are rammed earth, with 11-meter-wide gates located on the east, north, and south sides of the wall. While the north gate shows signs of an urn, the other two gates are severely damaged, making it impossible to discern their existence. The north wall has three battlements and two doorways, spaced 60 meters apart. There are corner towers at the northwest and southeast corners of the city, and no trace of a moat can be seen surrounding the city.

About 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Changling

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

Changling, located in Jilin Province, is known for its agricultural importance and rich natural environment. The area reflects northeastern Chinese rural life and offers insight into local traditions and community culture.

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

Changling is part of Matsubara in Jilin Province. Visitors can reach it by regional buses or trains from nearby cities, followed by taxis or local transport to scenic spots. Walking is feasible for exploring town areas and nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Outdoor attractions are generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are late spring through early autumn when weather conditions are favorable and the countryside is vibrant.

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

Most attractions are free or charge a small fee (around 10–40 CNY). Tickets can usually be purchased onsite, with some locations offering online booking through local travel platforms.

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

Booking in advance is generally not required except during peak tourist seasons or local festivals. A few days ahead is sufficient if booking is needed.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Changling’s main scenic and cultural areas typically takes 3–5 hours, depending on the extent of outdoor activities.

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

• Local rivers, lakes, and small waterfalls.
• Forest trails and countryside walking paths.
• Regional cultural centers or small museums.
• Panoramic viewpoints overlooking rural landscapes.

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

Guided tours are mostly available in Mandarin. Multilingual audio guides are uncommon.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Elevated countryside viewpoints for panoramic shots.
• Waterfronts along rivers and lakes.
• Fields and forested areas showcasing seasonal scenery.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin at main town areas or cultural centers, proceed to nearby natural spots along marked paths, stop at scenic viewpoints, and return via riverside or countryside trails for a looped experience.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special tours may be organized during local festivals.

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

Weekdays and mornings are the least crowded. Expect more visitors on weekends and during regional holidays.

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

Basic facilities include public restrooms, small food stalls, rest areas, and a few souvenir shops near main attractions.

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

Town and cultural sites are accessible for elderly and children. Some natural trails may be challenging for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used for tickets and purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries serve northeastern Chinese cuisine, with small cafes in town areas near scenic spots.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options exist but are limited. Halal options are rare, so check in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local guesthouses and small hotels in Changling town.
• Eco-lodges or countryside inns near natural areas.
• City hotels in Matsubara or nearby urban centers.

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

• Other rural villages or countryside trails.
• Lakes, rivers, and nearby forested nature reserves.
• Matsubara cultural or historical sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, regional food products, and small artwork or memorabilia from the area.

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

Regional buses, taxis, or private vehicles are convenient for traveling to nearby attractions or returning to Matsubara city.