Hulunbuir top tourist attractions and sightseeing
A good tour of Hulunbuir will include its signature landscapes such as the rolling Hulunbuir Grassland, the winding Morigele River, the Erguna Wetland, and the White Birch Forest Scenic Area. You can also explore nomadic culture, visit local herder families, ride horses across open fields, and enjoy immersive grassland experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. These local cultural activities and adventures that will enrich your Hulunbuir trip for a lifetime!
Hulunbuir is so much more than its spectacular grasslands. It is like opening a treasure chest filled with dazzling gems. Golden birch forests, rivers that curve like silver ribbons, the remote Lengji Village, the charming Enhe Town, and the vibrant border city of Manzhouli all showcase the region’s incredible diversity. Everyone who visits agrees that Hulunbuir is unforgettable and absolutely worth the journey.
Top 1: Endless Hulunbuir Grassland
The Hulunbuir Grassland, located in northeastern Inner Mongolia, is one of the world’s four great grasslands and the largest and best-preserved natural grassland in China. Covering over 100,000 square kilometers, it is home to abundant wildlife, rich cultural traditions, and breathtaking scenery, attracting visitors and researchers from around the globe.
In summer, the grassland transforms into a vast sea of green, dotted with grazing cattle and sheep, white yurts, and galloping horses beneath a sky of drifting clouds. It is not only a popular travel destination but also the ancestral homeland and cradle of life for generations of nomadic herders.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Hulunbuir Grassland is from June to August when the weather is pleasant, and the grasslands are in full bloom.
How to get there: The nearest airport to Hulunbuir Grassland is in Hailar, which is about 50 kilometers away. You can also take a train or bus from Beijing, Harbin, or other major cities in China.
Where to stay: There are many accommodation options available in Hulunbuir Grassland, including yurts, tents, and guesthouses. You can also camp in the grasslands, but be sure to bring your own camping gear.
What to do: There are many activities to do in Hulunbuir Grassland, such as horseback riding, hiking, and birdwatching. You can also visit the local nomadic tribes and experience their unique way of life.
What to eat: The local cuisine in Hulunbuir Grassland is primarily made up of dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. You can also try traditional Mongolian dishes like roasted lamb and horse meat.
Safety precautions: The grasslands can be dangerous, especially during the rainy season when there are floods and mudslides. Be sure to follow the local safety guidelines and avoid risky areas.
Cultural etiquette: It is important to respect the local culture and customs when visiting Hulunbuir Grassland. Dress modestly, ask permission before taking photos, and be mindful of local traditions and beliefs.
- Address: Chen Barag Banner, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: All day
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 50km, 50minutes
- Tour Length: 1-3hours
Top 2: Charming Erguna Wetland
Erguna Wetland is a unique and diverse wetland ecosystem located in Inner Mongolia. Known as “Asia’s Number One Wetland,” it is one of the largest and most well-preserved wetlands in China, often described as a “hidden green paradise.”
The wetland is renowned for its rich and varied flora and fauna, including rare species of birds and plants. Its picturesque landscapes make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and photography.
In addition to recreation, Erguna Wetland serves as an important site for scientific study and conservation, highlighting the ecological and cultural significance of this remarkable natural area..
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Erguna Wetland is from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry, and the wetland is at its most vibrant. The forests and grasslands are ablaze with layered, vivid colors, creating a stunning and picturesque landscape.
Getting there: The nearest airport to Erguna Wetland is Hulunbuir Hailar Airport. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach the wetland.
Accommodation: There are several hotels and guesthouses in Erguna Wetland, ranging from budget to luxury options. You can also choose to stay in a traditional Mongolian yurt for a unique experience.
Activities: There are many activities to do in Erguna Wetland, such as birdwatching, hiking, boating, fishing, and horseback riding. You can also visit the local ethnic villages to learn about their culture and customs.
Tips: Remember to bring appropriate clothing for the weather, insect repellent, and sun protection. Also, be respectful of the local culture and environment by not littering and following the rules of the nature reserve.
- Address: Northwest suburbs of Labudalin Street, Ergun City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: 07:00-19:00
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 130km, 2.5hours
- Tour Length: 1-3 hour
Top 3: Heishantou
Heishantou is one of the best places in Hulunbuir for horseback riding and catching an unforgettable sunset. Located between the charming town of Shiwei to the north and the border city of Manzhouli to the south, the area offers stunning scenery along the entire route. The town itself is named after the nearby Black Mountain, and its ancient city ruins—about 10 kilometers northwest of the town—feature inner and outer earthen walls that reflect its long history.
Heishantou is blessed with lush, knee-high grasslands, making every step feel like walking into a sea of green. Climb to the top of Heishan Mountain, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of villages, meadows, wetlands, winding rivers, and endless prairie stretching to the horizon in all directions.
The area is also known for its professional horseback teams, complete with impressive riding gear. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Mongolian cultural experiences, such as staying in a traditional yurt, feeding lambs, or trying their hand at milking cows, making Heishantou a perfect blend of natural beauty and authentic nomadic life.
- Address: Eerguna City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: All day
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 176km, 2.6hours
- Tour Length: 1-3 hour
Top 4: Magnificent Moerdaoga National Forest Park
Moerdaoga National Forest Park is a protected area located in the Daxing'anling Mountains of northeastern China, spanning over 90,000 hectares and encompassing a diverse range of ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and alpine tundra, with notable wildlife such as the endangered Siberian tiger and Amur leopard, making it an important site for conservation and ecotourism.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Moerdaoga National Forest Park is from June to September when the weather is pleasant, and the scenic beauty of the park is at its peak.
Where to stay: There are several accommodation options available near Moerdaoga National Forest Park, including hotels, guesthouses, and camping sites. The most popular place to stay is the park's resort, which offers comfortable rooms and various amenities.
Things to do:
Hiking: The park has many hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, that take you through the beautiful forests, lakes, and rivers.
Fishing: The park is a great place to go fishing, with many species of fish available in its lakes and rivers.
Photography: The park is a great place to capture some stunning photos, especially during the autumn when the trees change color.
Camping: The park has several camping sites where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the park while spending the night under the stars.
Sightseeing: There are several scenic spots in the park, including the Yueliangwan Scenic Area, the Chagan Lake Scenic Area, and the Shanhu Lake Scenic Area.
- Address: Approximately 11 kilometers from Moerdaoga Town, Ergun City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
- Open Hours: 08:30-17:30
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 360km, 5.5hours
- Tour Length: 2-3 hour
Top 5: The Frozen Coldness at China Coldest Village (Lengji Village)
Many people assume that China’s coldest place is Mohe, but the nation’s lowest temperature on record was actually measured in Genhe, Hulunbuir. Winter lows have reached –58°C, and temperatures below –35°C can last for more than six months, making it a fascinating yet formidable destination for those seeking to experience extreme climate conditions.
Lengji Village, the closest settlement to China’s “Pole of Cold,” sits near the monument marking the Northern Hemisphere’s lowest recorded temperature. Once known as Jinlin Village, it is home to only a handful of families, mainly Evenki and Mongolian. For generations, they have lived in harsh winters, developing deep survival wisdom and distinctive folk traditions.
The air here is pristine, the forests are dense, and the snow-covered, frost-laden scenery resembles a fairy-tale world. One of the most remarkable natural phenomena is that the Genhe River flowing through the village remains unfrozen even in such extreme cold.
Even though it is small, the village still offers a surprisingly rich variety of activities. Visitors can explore traditional farmyards, enjoy snowmobiling, try dog or reindeer sledding, go ice fishing, spin ice tops, or glide down snow chutes. You can also sample traditional Yakutian cuisine, including stroganina (frozen raw fish) and reindeer meat.
Additionally, travelers may take part in snow-sculpting workshops, learn ethnic embroidery, or sit around a warm stove to listen to elders share ancient stories about life on the vast, silent snowfields.
- Plan your visit during the winter months, from November to March, when temperatures can reach as low as -60°C and the snow-covered landscapes are at their most spectacular. During the Spring Festival, the Cold Pole Ice Festival takes place, filling the village with vibrant celebrations and a wide range of exciting seasonal activities.
- Warm windproof jacket, non-slip insulated high-top shoes, gloves (preferably windproof and touchscreen-friendly), hat, scarf, mask, and hand warmers.
- Take precautions to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, such as avoiding exposure to the cold for extended periods of time and staying well-hydrated.
- Book accommodations in advance, as there are limited options in the area. Homestays with local families are a popular choice.
- Hire a local guide to help navigate the area and provide insight into local culture and customs.
- The advantages are that it is far from the noise of the city, uncrowded, and wonderfully unspoiled. The downside, however, is that it can be extremely — and sometimes unbearably — cold.
- Address: Located within the operational area of Jinlin Forest Farm, under the jurisdiction of Jinhe Forestry Bureau in Genhe City, Hulunbuir, approximately 53 kilometers south of Genhe City.
- Open Hours: All day
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 300km, 3hours
- Tour Length: one day
Top 6: Enhe Town
Enhe Town, nestled in the heart of the Hulunbuir Grassland, is one of China’s only ethnic Ewenki settlements, renowned for its rare blend of Russian–style wooden houses, traditional Ewenki customs, and tranquil natural scenery. The town is blessed with vast meadows, winding rivers, birch forests, and idyllic pastoral life that make it feel like a serene borderland fairy tale. Visitors can stroll through villages lined with traditional log cabins, enjoy hearty Russian home-style meals, witness reindeer culture, and experience folk traditions that have been preserved for centuries. With its slow pace of life, peaceful landscape, and deep cultural charm, Enhe offers an intimate window into the unique multicultural heritage of northern China.
- Address: Eerguna City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: All day
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 290km, 3hours
- Tour Length: 2-3 hour
Top 7: Manzhouli
Manzhouli is a lively and colorful border city where Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian cultures blend seamlessly, creating one of the most distinctive urban landscapes in northern China. Famous for its eye-catching Russian-style architecture, bustling trade markets, and vibrant nightlife, the city showcases a fascinating mixture of languages, cuisines, and traditions.
Highlights include the iconic Matryoshka Square, the charming street cafés, and the dazzling neon-lit skyline that glows with cross-border charm. As a major land port, Manzhouli has long served as a gateway for cultural and economic exchange, offering visitors a rich array of experiences—from sampling authentic Russian dishes to exploring border monuments and watching cultural performances.
Its bold colors, festive atmosphere, and international flair make Manzhouli one of Inner Mongolia’s most dynamic and unforgettable destinations.
- Address: Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: All day
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 200 km, 2.5hours
- Tour Length: one day
Top 8: Morigele River
The Morigele River, often praised as the “First Meandering River Under Heaven,” is also known as Morigele or Morengen River. Its name comes from Mongolian, meaning “winding river” or “meeting river.” Located in Chen Barag Banner, it originates on the western slope of the Hada Ridge in the central Greater Khingan Mountains and belongs to the Erguna River system. Downstream, it flows into Hulun Lake and then continues from the lake’s southeastern outlet to join the Hailar River.
The riverbanks are lush and fertile, and the entire river resembles a silver dragon resting quietly upon the vast grassland. For centuries, nomadic herders have lived by following the water and grass. Every summer, they drive their cattle, sheep, and horses to graze along the riverbanks. Herds moving across the meadow, the rippling water, drifting white clouds, and the glow of the setting sun together reflect a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.
Today, this picturesque landscape, along with the rich nomadic culture it nurtures, draws countless visitors who come to admire the beauty of the grassland and experience its timeless charm.
- Address: Within Chen Barag Banner, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: All day
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 40km, 40minutes
- Tour Length: 1-2 hour
Top 9: White Birch Forest Scenic Area
The Erguna white Birch Forest Scenic Area is located about 40 kilometers from downtown Erguna. Legend has it that when Genghis Khan and his great army passed through this land, they regarded the white birch forest as a symbol of good fortune and chose to stop here to rest and make camp. Today, the forest remains one of Hulunbuir’s most enchanting landscapes.
Hulunbuir is one of the earliest regions in China to display autumn colors, and its white birch forests are the most iconic highlight. When autumn arrives, the forest glows like a golden gem, as the white birch trunks become draped in shimmering yellow leaves, creating what many consider the most beautiful autumn scenery in northern China. The best time to visit is from late September to early October, when the forest glows with rich layers of yellow and gold.
Visitors can stroll along well-maintained trails and enjoy birdwatching, while scenic viewpoints, peaceful picnic areas, and small wooden pavilions invite travelers to pause and soak in the serene beauty of the golden birch forest. Standing among the shimmering trees is a refreshing experience, and the birch itself holds great practical value, as its bark has long been used for roofing, fire-starting, and crafting traditional birch-bark paintings and ornaments.
- Address: 100 meters east of Provincial Highway 201, Ergun City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: All day
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 200km, 3.5hours
- Tour Length: 2 hour
Top 10: Hulun Lake
Hulun Lake, also known as Dalai Lake, takes its Mongolian name meaning “sea-like lake,” a tribute to its vast and seemingly endless waters. As one of Inner Mongolia’s natural treasures and the fifth largest freshwater lake in China, it is often praised as the “Pearl of the Grasslands” and is renowned for its eight remarkable scenic wonders.
Covering an area of about 2,339 square kilometers, which is equivalent to more than 400 West Lakes, Hulun Lake reaches a maximum depth of about 8 meters. Its expansive waters serve as an important habitat for northern bird species and a key migration corridor for inland birds. The lake hosts more than 200 species of birds, including swans, seagulls, and cranes.
Along the lakeshore, visitors can enjoy swimming areas, fishing spots, scenic walkways, and panoramic viewpoints. With its cool and refreshing summer climate, Hulun Lake is one of the region’s finest destinations for relaxation and a perfect place to escape the heat.
- Address: Hulun Lake, Xin Barag Right Banner, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
- Open Hours: 08:00-20:00
- Distance from Hailar city center and drive time: 220km, 2.5hours
- Tour Length: 1 hour
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If you are interested in one of the Hulunbuir itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.
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