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While Arxan Railway Station itself is not a major tourist site, visitors can explore the surrounding natural beauty of the area. The station is a point of interest for railway enthusiasts, and nearby attractions include the Arxan National Forest Park, famous for its volcanic landscapes, and hot springs. Take a scenic train ride to enjoy the vast grasslands and mountains of Inner Mongolia.
Built in 1937, Arxan Station is a two-story, Japanese-style building with low eaves and a pointed roof. The ground floor is surrounded by a granite wall with random stone inserts, and the roof is covered with ochre cement. Today, the entire station remains well-preserved and in use, making it a key cultural relic of Inner Mongolia.
Today, the entire train station is well-preserved and still in use, a key cultural relic of Inner Mongolia. It's the terminus of the Aershan Line. Perhaps the most beautiful of China's small train stations, it resembles a small Swiss station. Watching the sunset from the station at dusk is truly captivating.
The temperate continental monsoon climate makes travel suitable all year round.
2 hours
free
All day
Arxan Railway Station is a historical landmark in Inner Mongolia, serving as a key transit point for transportation in the region. The station is located near the Arxan National Forest Park and plays a significant role in connecting remote areas of Inner Mongolia with larger cities. It also serves as a gateway for exploring the local geology and natural beauty of the area.
Arxan Railway Station is located in the Arxan region of Inner Mongolia. The most practical way to get there is by train, as the station is a key rail hub in the area. Alternatively, taxis or private cars can be used to reach the station from Ulanhot or other nearby cities. Public transport options are limited, so renting a vehicle or using taxis is recommended.
As a functional railway station, Arxan Railway Station operates throughout the day based on train schedules. However, the best time to visit the region is during spring and summer (May to September), when the weather is more pleasant, and the surrounding landscapes are lush and green. Winter can be cold and harsh, but it offers a unique experience for those interested in the snowy terrain.
There is no entrance fee to visit Arxan Railway Station. Train tickets can be purchased online through Chinese railway booking platforms or at the station itself. Be sure to check train schedules in advance if you plan to travel by train.
It is recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and holidays). Tickets can usually be booked 30 days before departure through online booking services or at railway ticket counters.
Arxan Railway Station itself does not require much time to explore, as it is primarily a functional station. However, if you're using it as a base for exploring the surrounding area, you should allocate 2-3 hours for the station visit and additional time for nearby attractions like the Arxan National Forest Park and hot springs.
The main highlight at the station is the railway platform and the surrounding views of the Mongolian landscape. For those interested in railways, the station's architecture and historical significance are worth noting. However, the true attractions are outside the station, such as the nearby volcanic landscapes and natural parks.
Guided tours are generally not available at Arxan Railway Station itself. However, tours can be arranged for the surrounding areas, such as the Arxan National Forest Park and volcanic sites. Tours are typically in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be available in Ulanhot or through tour operators.
While the station itself doesn't offer many viewpoints, the surrounding area has excellent opportunities for photography, especially of the volcanic landscapes and natural beauty in the Arxan National Forest Park. The train ride through the Mongolian countryside is also a great photo opportunity.
After arriving at Arxan Railway Station, visitors can take a short tour of the station before heading to nearby attractions like the Arxan National Forest Park or the hot springs. It is recommended to spend a half-day exploring the park and enjoying scenic views of the volcanic landscapes before returning to the station or continuing onward by train.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Arxan Railway Station. The station operates as a transport hub, with most activity taking place during the daytime. For those staying overnight, the surrounding area offers camping and hotel accommodations with scenic views.
The station itself is not very crowded, but the surrounding area can become busy during peak tourist seasons, especially in summer. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays in the off-season or early mornings.
Arxan Railway Station has basic facilities such as toilets and waiting areas. There are no large restaurants or shops within the station itself, but food and beverages are available at small shops nearby. For more comprehensive facilities, you may need to visit Ulanhot city.
The station is accessible for elderly and children, but the surrounding area may be challenging due to uneven terrain, especially if you plan to explore the natural parks and volcanic sites. Accessibility may vary depending on the specific locations you visit.
Cash is accepted at the station and nearby shops, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more widely used in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller vendors.
There are no significant restaurants inside the station. However, you can find a few small eateries and local shops nearby. For a more extensive selection, head to Ulanhot city, which has a variety of restaurants.
Vegetarian and vegan options are limited in the area, but Ulanhot city offers a range of dining options, including halal food. Local Mongolian cuisine often includes meat, but vegetarian dishes can be found in larger cities.
There are no hotels immediately next to the station, but several accommodations are available in Ulanhot city, about 1-2 hours away by car. Options range from budget guesthouses to more comfortable hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Arxan National Forest Park, known for its volcanic landscape and natural beauty. The hot springs in the region are also popular and can easily be combined with a trip to the railway station.
There are small souvenir shops near the station, selling typical Mongolian crafts like jewelry, felt products, and traditional garments. Ulanhot city offers a wider variety of souvenirs.
From Arxan Railway Station, visitors can take trains to other cities in Inner Mongolia. Taxis or private cars are also available for onward travel. Ulanhot city, which is well connected to the station, offers bus services and taxis for further exploration.
