The origin of the city name, Joan, comes from the meaning "a place where birds dwell peacefully." Joan-myeon in Namyangju was designated a "slow city" in 2010 and was the first slow city in the Seoul metropolitan area. The city has a well-paved bike road along the Namhangang Riverbank connecting Paldang to Yangpyeong through Daeseong-ri. The city also has the Slow City Trail, starting from Ungilsan Station and passing through Majinsanseong Fortress and Sujongsa Temple before arriving at Songchon Independence Park.

Each of the twelve villages in Namyangju is known for a different local treasure, ranging from lotus fields to cultural heritages. Joan-myeon in particular has received compliments for its local communities, eco-friendly and organic farming, natural environment, traditional culture, and well-managed fisheries.