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The Ergun River, the source of the Heilongjiang River, was historically known as the "Wangjian River," a transliteration of the Tungusic (Ewenki) word "honkirnaur," meaning "Ewenki River." It was called the Wangjian River in the Old Book of Tang, the Ergun River in the Secret History of the Mongols, the Yeliguna River in the History of Yuan, and the Arunaran River in the History of Ming. Since the Qing Dynasty, it has been called the Ergun River.
Located in Hulunbuir, northeastern Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the Ergun River forms the border between China and Russia. The topography of the upper and lower Ergun River basins differs significantly. From Abagaidui to Heishantou, the area is a grassland and hilly area with flat terrain, open river valleys, numerous lakes and swamps, scattered water flows, and dense weeds and willow branches.
The flow of water from the right bank's Gen River, Derbugan River, and Haur River increases significantly. From Culuhaitu to Jilalin, the river valley narrows, with numerous sandbars and islands, and the river deepens. Below Jilalin, the river enters a canyon, where the valley narrows even further. The mountains on both sides are steep, the riverbed is stable, and the flow is steady. The river is approximately 200-300 meters wide and over 2.5 meters deep, making it a navigable channel with abundant hydropower resources.
From June to September, the temperature is suitable and the scenery is pleasant, making it a good time for travel.
1-2 hours
free
All day
Ergun River is located in the Hulunbuir region of Inner Mongolia, a place renowned for its vast, unspoiled nature. The river plays an important role in the local ecosystem and serves as a key feature in the lives of the ethnic Mongol people, whose traditions and lifestyle are deeply connected to the river and surrounding environment.
Ergun River is located in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia, near the Russian border. To get there, you would typically fly into Hailar (Hulunbuir) Airport, which is about 120 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the river. Public transport options like buses may also be available, but taxis or car rentals offer more flexibility for travelers.
Ergun River is a natural site and does not have formal opening hours. The best times to visit are from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is warm and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Winter visits are possible, but the region can be cold, and access to some areas may be limited due to snow.
There is no entrance fee to visit Ergun River as it is a natural attraction. However, if you plan on taking guided tours or boat rides, these activities may have a cost. Tickets for these activities can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.
For general visits to Ergun River, no advance booking is required. However, for boat tours or specialized activities, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (May to September).
Exploring Ergun River and its surroundings can take a full day, especially if you want to enjoy the river cruise and explore nearby villages or hiking spots. For a more relaxed experience, a half-day visit is also sufficient.
Guided tours are available for visitors, particularly for boat rides and visits to nearby villages. These tours are typically available in Mandarin, but some local guides may offer tours in English or Russian. It is advisable to arrange a tour in advance if you prefer a specific language.
Start your visit with a boat tour along the Ergun River, followed by a visit to the surrounding grasslands and forests. If time permits, explore the nearby Mongolian villages for a cultural experience. End your day with a relaxing walk along the riverbanks at sunset.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Ergun River. However, the area is perfect for a peaceful evening by the river, offering a calm atmosphere for relaxation and stargazing.
Ergun River is relatively remote, so it doesn't experience the high crowds seen at more urban tourist spots. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays in the shoulder seasons (April and October), when there are fewer tourists. Weekends and public holidays can attract more visitors.
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas near the main visitor spots. However, the area is quite rural, so there may not be many restaurants or shops on-site. It's recommended to carry water, snacks, and essentials for the day, especially if you're exploring the more remote parts of the area.
The Ergun River area is relatively remote, and some parts may be challenging for elderly, children, or disabled visitors due to the natural terrain. However, boat rides and areas near the main tourist spots are generally accessible. It’s important to consider mobility when planning your visit and possibly choose guided options that provide easier access.
Cash is commonly used in the Ergun River region, especially in more remote areas. Some tour operators and larger establishments may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay, but it’s a good idea to carry cash just in case.
There are limited restaurant options near the river itself. However, you can find local restaurants offering Mongolian cuisine in Hulunbuir city or the nearby town of Ergun, where you can enjoy dishes like lamb and dairy products.
While traditional Mongolian cuisine is heavy on meat, some local restaurants may offer vegetarian options. Vegan and halal food may be harder to find in more rural areas, but it’s recommended to inquire with local restaurants in advance.
There are a few hotels and guesthouses in Hulunbuir city and Ergun town, which are the closest accommodations to the Ergun River. Options range from basic guesthouses to more comfortable hotels. For a more rustic experience, you can also stay in Mongolian yurts in the surrounding area.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in nearby towns where you can buy traditional Mongolian handicrafts, such as wool products, jewelry, and artwork. You can also find local honey, dairy products, and herbal teas.
After visiting Ergun River, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi or bus back to Hulunbuir city or Ergun town. For longer trips, you can take a flight from Hulunbuir Airport or catch a bus or train to other regions of Inner Mongolia.
