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Hulunbuir is a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. It is named after the Hulun Lake and the Beier Lake within its territory. Hulunbuir is a multi-ethnic area with the Mongolian majority and the Han majority. Hulunbuir is a golden area, known as the "Jade of the North" and the "Green Pure Land". With a total area of 262,000 square kilometers, it accounts for 1/40 of China's territory, [9] equivalent to the combined area of Shandong and Jiangsu provinces.
In Hulunbuir's urban, agricultural, and forested areas, where Han Chinese are concentrated, popular entertainment activities are generally active during the Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, and the rural leisure season. These activities mainly include yangge (Chinese folk song), Errenzhuan (two-person opera), single-act performances, and exhibitions of ice sculptures, ice lanterns, and colored lights. In recent years, fireworks displays have also become popular in cities.
Hulunbuir is located in the northern temperate zone and has a distinct continental climate. May to October is the best time to travel.
Hulunbuir Grassland
It is one of the three most famous grasslands in the world, a world-famous natural pasture, and a well-preserved grassland in China, known as the "Grassland Kingdom".
Manzhouli Matryoshka Square
It is the only large-scale comprehensive tourist resort in the country with the theme of Russian traditional handicraft - Matryoshka dolls. It is a large-scale Russian-style park with the concept of combining the history, culture, architecture and folk customs of Manzhouli and Russia, integrating food, accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, shopping and entertainment.
Hulun Lake
Hulun Lake, located on the Hulunbuir Grassland, is the largest lake in Inner Mongolia and one of China's five largest freshwater lakes. It is a paradise for birds and fish, home to over 200 rare species, including swans, seagulls, cranes, ducks, and herons.
Recommended travel time: 3-7 days
Hulunbuir is a region in Inner Mongolia known for its vast, pristine grasslands and rich cultural history. The area is significant for its role in Mongolian history, nomadic culture, and natural beauty. It has served as a historic trade route and remains a symbol of Mongolia’s traditional pastoral lifestyle.
Hulunbuir is located in the northeastern part of Inner Mongolia, bordering Russia and Mongolia. It can be accessed by flights into Hulunbuir Hailar Airport or by train and bus services from major cities in Inner Mongolia and Heilongjiang Province. Taxis and private cars are recommended for local travel.
Hulunbuir is an open region and can be visited year-round. However, the best times are during late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the grasslands are lush, and the weather is mild. Winter offers a completely different experience with snowy landscapes, but it can be harsh for travelers not accustomed to the cold.
Most areas in Hulunbuir, including the grasslands and parks, do not require an entrance fee. However, specific attractions like Hulun Lake or cultural performances may charge a fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally required for most attractions. However, during peak seasons (especially summer), booking a guided tour or specific activities in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
To fully explore the Hulunbuir region, 3 to 4 days are recommended. This allows time to visit the grasslands, Hulun Lake, local cultural sites, and experience the nomadic lifestyle.
Guided tours are available, and many are conducted in Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, particularly those arranged by local tour operators. Audio guides may be available at certain attractions, but availability may vary.
A suggested itinerary would be:
Night visits are not commonly available in Hulunbuir due to the region’s rural nature. However, some hotels or guesthouses may offer cultural performances at night. Special tours, such as horseback riding or star-gazing, are also popular during the evenings.
Hulunbuir is not typically crowded, except during the summer months (July and August). To avoid crowds, it's best to visit during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer tourists.
Basic facilities are available throughout Hulunbuir, especially near tourist attractions. Toilets, food stalls, and rest areas can be found near Hulun Lake and the grasslands. However, bring your own water and snacks for more remote areas. Shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs are also available.
Many areas in Hulunbuir, especially the grasslands, may involve uneven terrain, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, certain tourist areas and accommodations cater to families and those with mobility issues, so it’s best to inquire with local providers in advance.
Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in Hulunbuir. Credit cards are not commonly accepted, so it's a good idea to carry cash when traveling to rural areas.
There are local restaurants offering traditional Mongolian dishes, such as lamb, mutton, milk tea, and dairy products. In larger towns like Hailar, you can find a variety of cafes and Chinese-style eateries. In more remote areas, food options may be more limited.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in rural areas, but in larger towns, you can find some vegetarian dishes, especially rice and vegetable-based meals. Halal food options may also be available in some restaurants, especially in areas with a significant Muslim population.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Hailar and surrounding towns, offering a range of accommodations from budget to mid-range. For a more authentic experience, some visitors opt to stay in traditional Mongolian yurts in rural areas.
Souvenir shops in Hulunbuir sell local handicrafts such as Mongolian rugs, woolen products, traditional clothing, and silver jewelry. Other popular items include Mongolian dairy products and local artworks.
From Hulunbuir, you can continue your journey by taking a flight from Hailar Airport to major cities like Harbin or Beijing. Train services and long-distance buses are also available for travel within Inner Mongolia or to other provinces.
