Arxan

What are the most recommended things to do in Arxan?

Hike and explore the volcanic landscapes, including hot springs, lava formations, and mineral springs.
Relax in the natural hot springs around Arxan National Forest Park.
Photography of forests, volcanoes, and lakes, especially during autumn for colorful foliage.
Visit the Cold Water River, Jiuzhai Valley, and Shilanshan volcanic area.
Enjoy winter activities such as snow trekking and ice scenery if visiting in cold season.
Experience local Mongolian culture and cuisine in nearby towns.

Introducing Arxan

Arxan City is located in the northwest of Xing'an League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, spanning the southwestern foothills of Greater Khingan Range. It is the political, economic and cultural center of the Xing'an League forest area, and is also one of the cities with the highest latitudes in the country.

Arshan, a natural oxygen bar shrouded in lush vegetation, served as a filming location for the film "The Banquet." The National Forest Park encompasses numerous scenic spots, including Tianchi Lake, Santan Gorge, Rhododendron Lake, and Shitang Forest. The Haisheng Holy Spring Sanatorium is also a relaxing retreat. Because different springs have different effects, they are highly effective in treating a variety of ailments, earning it the nickname "Holy Spring."

China Hot Spring Museum China Hot Spring Museum is located in the Arxan Volcanic Hot Spring National Geopark. The museum integrates various geological landscapes such as the hot spring pool, strange lakes and beautiful rocks, the Arxan hot spring group, volcanoes, forests, grasslands, ice and snow, and lakes. It has the world's largest group of hot springs and mineral springs that can be washed and drunk. They are all naturally gushed out and none of them are artificially dug, which is very wonderful.

Climate and best time to travel

Each season has its own unique charm, so you can choose the best season to suit your taste. However, Arxan is relatively cold in spring, autumn, and winter, especially in winter, where the temperature can reach -40°C. In spring and autumn, the temperature is around 0 to -10°C. In summer, the temperature is pleasant, ranging from 15 to 25°C, so if you are afraid of the cold, then go there in summer.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tianchi

At the turn of spring and summer, the mountains are filled with stagnant water vapor, and the clouds are thick. The mountaintops are shrouded in mist, and white clouds sometimes rise up beside the mountains and sometimes roll down. Lush pine and birch trees surround the pool, overflowing with green and swaying with emerald green, forming the unique natural landscape of Tianchi.

Shitanglin

The Shitang Forest was formed by the lava flowing out of a volcanic eruption, and its shapes are varied and bizarre. Some resemble swords pointing straight up to the sky, some resemble brave warriors fighting with halberds, some resemble mighty armies running at full speed, and some resemble elderly people weathered by the frost of the weather.

Santanxia

This stretch of the river, known as the "Summer Glacier," boasts ice and snow even in June. It comprises three deep pools: Yingsongtan, Yingbitan, and Longfengtan. Volcanic rocks strewn throughout the valley allow for walking through the water. Rhododendrons blanket the canyon's banks, creating a sense of wonderland.

Rhododendron Lake

Dujuan Lake is a flowing, flowing lake with breathtaking scenery all year round. In spring, visitors can admire the vibrant bloom of azaleas; in summer, fields of duckweed create a scene reminiscent of the Jiangnan region; in autumn, golden waves ripple across the lake; and in winter, the lake freezes, creating a natural ice rink.

Tickets

Peak season (April 26 to October 15): 180.00 yuan

Off-season (October 16th to April 25th): 150.00 yuan

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

Most Popular FAQs for Arxan

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

Arxan is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, forests, and hot springs. It is part of the Greater Khingan Range and holds ecological importance due to its diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature tourism and outdoor recreation in Inner Mongolia.

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

Location: Ulanhot, Inner Mongolia, China.
By air: Nearest airport is Ulanhot Airport, from where you can take a taxi or bus to Arxan (~3 hours by road).
By train: Arxan Railway Station connects with major cities like Harbin and Hailar.
By road: Taxis or private cars from Ulanhot or nearby cities; buses available but less frequent.
Walking: Recommended for exploring trails and scenic spots inside the park.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open year-round; daylight hours are ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Best seasons: Summer (June–August) for hiking and greenery, Autumn (September–October) for fall foliage, Winter (December–February) for snow landscapes and hot springs.

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

Entrance fees: Approximately 50–120 CNY depending on park area and season.
Tickets can be purchased at park entrances or via local travel agencies. Some online booking options may be available through official park websites or platforms like Ctrip.

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

Advance booking is optional for general admission but recommended for peak seasons or guided tours, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days to explore Arxan National Forest Park, including volcanic areas, lakes, and hot springs; longer if combining cultural experiences and surrounding towns.

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

Arxan National Forest Park – volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and forest trails.
Jiuzhai Valley – scenic lakes and waterfalls.
Shilanshan volcanic area – lava formations and unique geological sites.
Cold Water River and nearby forests for wildlife and nature observation.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-speaking guides may be arranged through tour agencies. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Volcanic hills and lava rock formations for dramatic landscapes.
Autumn foliage areas along forest trails.
Hot spring areas with steam rising against natural backgrounds.
Lakes and rivers for reflections and sunrise/sunset shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at park entrance → Shilanshan volcanic area → forest trails → Jiuzhai Valley → Cold Water River → hot springs → exit through southern trail.

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

Night visits are not common. Seasonal guided hikes, photography tours, and hot spring experiences are available. Winter may have snow trekking tours.

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

Moderately visited; weekdays and non-holiday periods are least crowded.
Summer holidays and national holidays see peak visitor numbers.

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

Public toilets near main trails and entrances.
Snack stalls and small restaurants in park hubs.
Rest areas along hiking paths.
Souvenir shops at main entrances and parking areas.

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

Main trails and park areas are moderately accessible; some steep or natural trails may not be suitable for wheelchairs. Elderly and children can enjoy easier paths and hot springs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are generally accepted for entrance fees, food, and local services.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants offering Mongolian cuisine and Chinese dishes in Arxan town and near park entrances.
Cafes and snack stalls at hot spring resorts and scenic hubs.