Introducing Ergun River Wetland
The Ergun Wetland, located northwest of the Greater Khingan Range and on the east bank of the Ergun River, covers a total area of 126,000 hectares and is a tidal flat of the Ergun River and its tributaries (Genhe, Derbugan, and Ha'ur). Known as "Asia's No. 1 Wetland," it is China's largest and best-preserved wetland and a favorite destination for photography enthusiasts.
The scenic area boasts vast expanses of shrubland and meadows, and is home to a rich variety of wetland-dependent wildlife. Twenty million birds migrate, stop, breed, and inhabit the wetlands each year. It is one of the world's most important breeding grounds for red-crowned cranes and a key habitat for the endangered swan goose.
The Ergun River, the border river between China and Russia, flows quietly like a ribbon, witnessing the development and inheritance of the entire village, as well as the occurrence and evolution of countless historical moments. It is also the filming location for many movies, such as "The Wheat Field" and "White Deer Plain".
Climate and best time to travel
Summer is the season when the aquatic plants in the Ergun River wetland are the most abundant.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Tickets
65 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
May 15th - October 15th 06:00-22:00
Most Popular FAQs for Ergun River Wetland
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Ergun River Wetland is one of the largest river wetlands in China, located in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia. It plays a critical role in biodiversity conservation, supporting numerous bird species and wetland flora. The wetland is also important for local water management and ecological balance in the region.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in Ergun City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia, near the Russian border.
- Reachable by bus or taxi from Ergun City center.
- Private car or guided tour is recommended for ease of access to remote wetland areas.
- Walking is suitable only on designated trails within the wetland.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open year-round; best times are late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the wetland is lush and wildlife is active.
- Mornings are ideal for birdwatching and photography.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Entrance fees vary by season and area, typically around 50–100 CNY.
- Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance; some local tourism websites offer online booking.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist season (summer holidays), ideally 1–2 weeks ahead. On regular days, tickets can be bought on-site.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- Half a day for a basic visit including walking trails and viewpoints.
- Full day recommended to take a boat tour, observe wildlife, and explore nearby areas.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Main river channels and observation decks for panoramic wetland views.
- Birdwatching towers and wildlife observation points.
- Scenic grasslands adjacent to the river for photography.
- Nearby traditional Mongolian villages for cultural experiences.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Local guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin; English-speaking guides are limited but can be arranged through travel agencies.
- No widely available audio guides.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Observation towers along the Ergun River for wide-angle wetland views.
- Boat tours for water-level perspectives and wildlife photography.
- Sunrise or sunset on the grasslands for dramatic landscape shots.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the main entrance, take a short hike to observation points, enjoy a boat tour along the river, then visit surrounding grasslands and cultural sites before returning.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night visits are generally not permitted.
- Special eco-tours or seasonal wildlife tours may be available on request.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- The wetland is generally quiet except during summer holidays and local festival periods.
- Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic toilets and rest areas near main access points.
- Small food stalls or vendors at the entrance; limited options inside the wetland.
- Souvenir shops near the visitor center.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Main access areas and observation decks are moderately accessible.
- Some trails may be uneven; elderly and disabled visitors may need assistance.
- Children are welcome but should be supervised, especially near water areas.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is useful for small vendors.
- Some entrance fees and services may accept mobile payments (WeChat, Alipay), but card payments are limited.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local restaurants in Ergun City offering Mongolian and Chinese cuisine.
- Small cafés near the wetland entrance or tourist center.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Vegetarian options may be limited; inquire locally for specific dishes.
- Halal options are rare but may be available in larger towns nearby.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels and guesthouses in Ergun City, 15–30 minutes from the wetland by car.
- Eco-lodges or small homestays near the river for a nature-focused experience.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Hulun Lake for lakeside scenery and birdwatching.
- Local Mongolian grasslands and herding villages.
- Borderland sightseeing areas near Russia and Mongolia.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handicrafts, Mongolian wool products, local preserves, and postcards.
- Small items related to wetland wildlife and natural scenery.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or private car back to Ergun City or Hulunbuir.
- Bus services to nearby cities and scenic spots.
- Organized tours connecting to Hulun Lake or Mongolian grasslands.
