Qiqihar is one of the largest cities in Heilongjiang, China's northernmost province, set on the Nen River at the western edge of the vast Songnen Plain. It is known across China as the City of Cranes, thanks to the nearby Zhalong wetlands, where rare red-crowned cranes breed each year. The city also has a proud industrial history, a famous barbecue scene and long, snowy winters that turn parks and rivers white. Travellers booking flights to Qiqihar are often visiting family or business partners, or heading into the wetlands to see some of Asia's most impressive birdlife.

About the Airport Serving Qiqihar

Location

Qiqihar Sanjiazi Airport, code NDG, lies on the outskirts of the city near the town of Sanjiazi. It is the only commercial airport for Qiqihar, so there is no need to choose between airports.

Terminals

The airport has a single, compact passenger terminal handling domestic flights. Facilities are modest but practical, with check-in counters, a small selection of food outlets and transport desks in arrivals. In winter, dress warmly before you step out of the terminal, as temperatures can be far below freezing.

Getting to and from the Airport

Taxis are the easiest way into the city, and airport buses also connect the terminal with central Qiqihar. Ride-hailing apps are widely used in China, so set up a local mobile payment method before you arrive to make paying for rides and meals simpler.

Direct and Connecting Flights to Qiqihar

There is no nonstop service between Singapore and Qiqihar, so travellers usually connect through a major Chinese hub such as Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou, where domestic flights continue north. Switch on the Direct filter on the results page to see nonstop legs from your connecting city, and compare total journey times to avoid long waits. Another option is to fly into Harbin, the provincial capital, and continue to Qiqihar by high-speed train across the plain.

When to Fly to Qiqihar

Qiqihar has a cold continental climate with dramatic seasons. Winters are long, dry and bitterly cold, with snow on the ground for months. Summers are short, warm and green, and they bring most of the year's rain. Late spring and early autumn are especially rewarding for wildlife lovers, as cranes and other migratory birds pass through the Zhalong wetlands.

Travel demand within China peaks during Chinese New Year and the Golden Week holiday in early October. For Singapore travellers, the December school holidays also appeal to anyone keen on a snowy trip to north-east China, often paired with Harbin's winter festival. Check the monthly price chart on this page to see when fares usually dip.

Popular Places in Qiqihar

Zhalong National Nature Reserve

This huge wetland south-east of the city is one of the most important breeding grounds for the endangered red-crowned crane. Boardwalks, watchtowers and reed-fringed lakes make it a highlight for birdwatchers and photographers.

Longsha Park

One of the oldest parks in north-east China, Longsha Park has lakes, pavilions and tree-lined paths in the middle of the city. It is lively with morning exercisers in summer and glistens with snow in winter.

Mingyue Island

This island on the Nen River is a green retreat with gardens, temples and riverside walks. It is a relaxing place to spend an afternoon when the weather is warm.

Nen River Waterfront

The river shapes the city's landscape, and its banks are popular for evening strolls, summer boating and, in the depths of winter, ice activities when the water freezes over.

Bukui Mosque and the Old Town

Qiqihar has a long-established Hui Muslim community, and its historic mosque blends Chinese architectural styles with Islamic details. The surrounding streets offer a glimpse of the city's older neighbourhoods.

Where to Stay in Qiqihar

Longsha District is the city's centre, with shopping streets, restaurants and easy access to Longsha Park, making it the most convenient base for visitors. Jianhua and Tiefeng districts are also close to the centre and have plenty of business-friendly accommodation, with Tiefeng being handy for Zhalong. If you are arriving by train, look for a stay near Qiqihar's main railway station to keep transfers short.

Food to Try in Qiqihar

Qiqihar Barbecue

The city is famous across China for its barbecue, where thinly sliced marinated beef is grilled at the table on iron plates and dipped in spicy seasonings. Barbecue restaurants are busy late into the night.

Guobaorou

This Heilongjiang classic features crisp, battered pork slices glazed in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, a dish that originated in the region.

Iron Pot Stews

Hearty stews of meat, potatoes, corn and vegetables are cooked in large iron pots, often with cornbread stuck to the sides, a perfect meal for cold days.

North-East Dumplings

Dumplings are a staple in Qiqihar, filled with pork and cabbage or other fillings and eaten year-round, especially around the new year.

The City of Cranes rewards anyone willing to travel a little further north. Search Traveloka for your route to Qiqihar and pack for the season you choose.