Songyuan is located in the central-western part of Jilin Province, along the Songhua River, on the Songnen Plain. It has a temperate continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons: cold and dry winters, warm and humid summers.
Songyuan has a long history, with human activity dating back to the Western Han Dynasty. It was a military stronghold during the Liao and Jin Dynasties, and the Bodune Office was established during the Qing Dynasty. In modern times, it rose due to the development of petroleum resources and is an important energy city.
Songyuan's culture blends Manchu, Mongolian, and Han characteristics. Famous local dishes include Chagan Lake bighead carp, Mongolian roasted whole lamb, and Songyuan cold noodles. The annual Chagan Lake Ice and Snow Fishing and Tourism Cultural Festival attracts many visitors in winter.
Songyuan is a major base for China's petroleum industry, hosting the headquarters of Jilin Oilfield. In recent years, it has actively developed eco-tourism and modern agriculture, with rapid urban construction, becoming a regional central city in western Jilin.
The best time to visit 松原 is Suitable for all seasons, winter fishing is the most exciting.
Winter (December to February) is the golden season for tourism in Songyuan, where you can experience Chagan Lake winter fishing, enjoy ice and snow sculptures, and feel the charm of ice and snow.
Summer (June to August) is cool and pleasant, suitable for visiting Chagan Lake, Longhua Temple, and other attractions for summer retreat and leisure.
Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) have moderate temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and tasting local cuisine.
A large oilfield was discovered in the Songyuan area, marking the start of Songyuan's petroleum industry.
Approved by the State Council, Fuyu City was abolished and prefecture-level Songyuan City was established.
The custom of winter fishing on Chagan Lake was inscribed on China's national intangible cultural heritage list.
Recommended places to visit
One of China's top ten freshwater lakes, famous for winter fishing. The annual Ice and Snow Fishing and Hunting Cultural Tourism Festival features spectacular under-ice fishing scenes.
One of the largest Buddhist temples in Northeast China, first built in the Qing Dynasty, with magnificent architecture and thriving incense.
Explore rich intangible cultural heritage and traditional crafts
Traditional techniques and customs of winter fishing on Chagan Lake, including lake worship, net awakening, and fishing, inscribed on the national intangible cultural heritage list.
Traditional Mongolian wrestling, widely practiced in Mongolian communities in Songyuan, listed as provincial intangible cultural heritage.
Must-know transportation for exploring the city
Located in Qianguo County, with flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and other cities.
Varies by route
Songyuan Station is a conventional railway station, Songyuan North Station is a high-speed rail station, connecting to Changchun, Harbin, etc.
High-speed rail about 100 yuan to Changchun
Songyuan city has multiple bus routes covering major attractions and commercial areas, fare 1-2 yuan.
1-2 yuan
Taste the most authentic and popular local specialties
High-quality bighead carp from Chagan Lake, with tender meat, often stewed in an iron pot, delicious.
Traditional Mongolian dish, crispy skin and tender meat, a feast for honored guests.
Characterized by water conservancy projects and natural scenery, including Hada Mountain Water Control Project and Wetland Park.
A comprehensive museum showcasing Songyuan's history, culture, and petroleum industry development.
Unique karst landforms composed of mudstone and sandstone with various shapes, known as the 'Mud Forest Wonder'.
Korean-style cold noodles, chewy noodles, sweet and sour soup, perfect for summer.
Specialty of Fuyu, Songyuan, traditionally brewed with mellow acidity, a great seasoning.
Thin crust with generous filling, crispy outside and tender inside, available with beef, lamb, etc.