Middle East Railway Museum

Introducing the Middle East Railway Museum

The Chinese Eastern Railway Museum, built in 1909, covers an area of ​​4,000 square meters, with a building area of ​​1,020 square meters. Renovated in 2008, the museum, formerly the site of the Tsarist Russian Forest Police Battalion, is a nationally protected key cultural relic. It currently houses over 1,000 artifacts, primarily historical images and artifacts, illustrating the century-long history of the Chinese Eastern Railway.

The museum is the only one in China dedicated to the Middle East Railway. It displays objects, models, and pictures, and uses modern lighting to display different themed colors, giving people the feeling of stepping on the rails and traveling through time and space to experience history.

The railway tracks in the hall are completely integrated with the cultural relics in the collection, and the exhibition has become the best-designed and most distinctive historical museum, vividly reproducing the historical process of the Middle East Railway from its construction to its return.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for travel all year round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

Tickets

free

---

Most Popular FAQs for Middle East Railway Museum

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

The Middle East Railway Museum preserves the legacy of the Middle East Railway, which played a crucial role in the development of northeastern Inner Mongolia. It showcases historical trains, infrastructure, and the story of regional industrialization and cultural exchange.

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

Located in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia. Visitors can reach the museum by taxi or private car from the city center. Public bus routes may be available but limited. Walking is recommended for exploring the museum grounds once inside.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather for visiting, while winter can be very cold but provides picturesque snow-covered scenes for photography.

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

Entrance fee is around 50–100 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some tour operators offer pre-booked packages including museum entry.

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

Booking in advance is recommended during holidays or weekends. A few days ahead is usually sufficient for general admission.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours is usually enough to see the main exhibits and explore the outdoor railway displays.

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

• Vintage steam engines and carriages
• Interactive model train displays
• Historical railway equipment and tools
• Exhibition halls with photographs and documents
• Outdoor railway tracks and scenic photo spots

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese. English or other language tours may be arranged through travel agencies in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• In front of the historic steam engines
• Along outdoor tracks with vintage carriages
• Panoramic shots of museum buildings and landscaped areas
• Model train displays and interactive setups

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main exhibition hall to learn history
• Visit the vintage trains and carriages
• Walk along the outdoor tracks
• Explore interactive and model train displays
• Finish with photography and souvenir shopping

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

Night visits are generally not available. Special tours may be organized during holidays or railway-related events.

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

Weekdays are less crowded. Holidays and weekends attract more visitors, especially school groups and railway enthusiasts.

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

Facilities include restrooms, a small cafeteria or snack bar, water points, and a souvenir shop.

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

Accessible for children and elderly. Some areas may be uneven outdoors; wheelchair access may be limited in certain exhibition areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted; mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely accepted. Card payments may be limited.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby small restaurants and cafes offer local food and refreshments. On-site options are limited to a snack bar.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are limited; Halal options are not common.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses in Hulunbuir city center provide convenient access, ranging from budget to mid-range options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Hulunbuir Grasslands, Hailar District cultural sites, and local forests can be visited in a combined day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell railway-themed memorabilia, model trains, postcards, and local handicrafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Car or taxi is recommended for onward travel to nearby attractions; public transport options are limited.