Manzhouli

Introducing Manzhouli

Manzhouli is a county-level city directly under the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, administered by Hulunbuir City. It is also a separately planned city (quasi-prefecture-level city) within the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The Manzhouli Port, located in the northwest of the Hulunbuir Grasslands in Inner Mongolia, borders the Greater Khingan Mountains to the east, Hulun Lake to the south, Mongolia to the west, and the Russian Federation to the north. The city covers a total area of ​​732 square kilometers (including Zhalainuoer District).

Home to over 20 ethnic groups, including Mongolian, Han, Hui, Korean, Ewenki, Oroqen, and Russian, Manzhouli is a port city uniquely situated for its blend of Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian customs and Eastern and Western cultures, earning it the reputation of "The Window of East Asia." Manzhouli boasts abundant tourism resources, with the border crossing and Sino-Russian trade zones being must-see destinations. The grassland scenery, Mongolian customs, exotic border atmosphere, and Hulun Lake, China's fifth-largest freshwater lake, are all drawcards.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate : Cold temperate continental climate

Recommended time : All seasons, best in summer.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Manzhouli Matryoshka Scenic Area

The Matryoshka Scenic Area, a key component of the Sino-Russian border tourism zone, is a large-scale Russian-themed park. It features six functional areas: Matryoshka World, Fun Zone, Matryoshka Theater, Russian Folk Experience Hall, Russian-Mongolian Performing Arts Theater, and Extreme Park. It boasts a Russian circus, a dream ballet, a mysterious and fantastical water curtain live performance, the world's largest Matryoshka-themed hotel, amusement facilities, and directly operated Russian handicrafts and specialty food processing.

Opening hours : 09:00-22:30

Tickets: 100 yuan/person 198 yuan/person (including circus tickets)

Tel: 0470-6668688

Manzhouli National Gate Scenic Area

The National Gate Scenic Area is a landmark tourist attraction in Manzhouli and a key national red tourism destination. It includes the National Gate, Boundary Marker No. 41, the Red Tourism Exhibition Hall, the Sixth National Congress of the Communist Party of China Exhibition Hall, and the remains of the Manzhouli Red Secret Transportation Line. The fifth-generation National Gate is currently the largest national gate at a Chinese land port, standing opposite the Russian National Gate. It is a must-see for visitors to Manchuria.

Opening hours : 08:30-17:30

Tickets:

Regular ticket: 80 RMB

Half-price ticket: Students (full-time, with valid student ID), active military personnel (with valid ID), journalists, low-income earners, seniors aged 65-69 (with ID)

Free admission: Children under 1.2m tall, seniors over 70 years old (with ID card), persons with disabilities (with disability certificate), professional religious personnel (with valid ID), journalists (with press card issued by the General Administration of Press and Publication and valid annual inspection)

Note: The National Gate Scenic Area is located in the border area and requires ID card inspection (except for children), so be sure to bring your ID before traveling.

Jalainur Mammoth Park

The theme park integrates leisure, entertainment, and tourism, focusing on promoting the culture of Zhalainuoer, the "Hometown of Mammoths." Between April 1980 and the spring of 1984, three mammoth fossils were unearthed in Zhalainuoer's open-pit mines. One, unearthed in July 1980, is the largest ancient elephant fossil specimen ever found in my country, a rare find. This earned Zhalainuoer the nickname "Hometown of Mammoths."

All day, free

Sino-Russian Trade Pedestrian Street

It is a shopping street for tourists, with many collectible old coins and medals. There are also several small shops on the street that exchange rubles. The lighting at night is very good, full of modern feeling. There are not many people, and it is very pleasant to walk along the river.

All day, free

---

Most Popular FAQs for Manzhouli

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

Manzhouli is a border town in Inner Mongolia that has a unique blend of Chinese and Russian cultures due to its location near the Russian border. The town is an important trade hub, particularly for the transportation of goods between China and Russia. It is also known for its Russian-style architecture and festivals.

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

Manzhouli is located in the Hulunbuir region of Inner Mongolia, China, near the Russian border. The town can be reached by train, bus, or taxi from Hailar, the regional capital. The nearest airport is Manzhouli Xijiao Airport, which has flights from major Chinese cities.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Manzhouli is a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the summer months (May to September) when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are more comfortable. Winter (November to February) is also popular for the Ice Festival, though it can be quite cold.

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

There are no specific entrance fees for the town itself, but some attractions like the Ice Festival and certain cultural exhibitions may have ticket prices ranging from 50-200 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the venue or online through local ticket platforms.

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

It is recommended to book tickets in advance for special events like the Ice Festival, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking a few weeks in advance is ideal, particularly during the winter months when the festival is held.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Manzhouli, 2-3 days are sufficient. This allows time to visit the main attractions, explore the local culture, and take a day trip to nearby destinations like the Zhalantun Grasslands.

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

• Manzhouli International Convention and Exhibition Center.
• Matryoshka Square, with its Russian-inspired architecture.
• The Zhalantun Grasslands, known for their natural beauty and nomadic culture.
• The Manzhouli Ice Festival during winter for stunning ice sculptures.

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

Guided tours are available for most of the key attractions, especially in popular spots like the Ice Festival and the Zhalantun Grasslands. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to check in advance. Local tours are generally conducted in Chinese or Russian.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Matryoshka Square for photos of the Russian-style buildings.
• The Zhalantun Grasslands offer expansive views and are great for nature photography.
• The Ice Festival provides unique photo opportunities with its ice sculptures and snow-themed landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes exploring the town’s Russian-inspired architecture, visiting the Zhalantun Grasslands, attending the Ice Festival in winter, and checking out the local markets. A day trip to the nearby Hulun Lake is also a good addition.

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

Night visits are popular during the Ice Festival, where light shows and ice sculpture displays are illuminated at night. Additionally, some cultural tours may offer evening performances or local music and dance shows.

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

Manzhouli can get crowded during peak seasons like the summer and during the Ice Festival in winter. The least crowded times are during the spring and autumn months when tourism is quieter.

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

Manzhouli has all basic facilities, including toilets, food, and water in local restaurants and shops. Major tourist areas like the Ice Festival and Zhalantun Grasslands have designated rest areas and food vendors.

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

Manzhouli is generally accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors. Most tourist spots have paved paths and facilities, though some areas like the grasslands may be more challenging to navigate for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted, especially in smaller shops and local markets. However, mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and credit cards are widely accepted in larger businesses and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Manzhouli offers various restaurants serving local Chinese and Russian cuisine, such as dumplings, grilled meats, and stews. There are also cafes offering coffee and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants in Manzhouli, especially in larger establishments. Halal food can be found in restaurants catering to Muslim customers, particularly those from the Chinese Hui minority.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Manzhouli International Hotel, offering upscale accommodations.
• Various guesthouses and budget hotels in the city center.

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

• Hulun Lake, located just outside of Manzhouli, is a great destination for a day trip.
• The Zhalantun Grasslands and the nearby Hulunbuir Grasslands offer excellent nature experiences.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Manzhouli has a variety of souvenir shops offering Russian dolls (Matryoshka), traditional Mongolian crafts, and local textiles. Other popular souvenirs include fur products, wooden carvings, and ethnic jewelry.

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

• Trains and buses are available to major cities in Inner Mongolia and China, such as Hailar and Harbin.
• Private taxis or car rentals can be arranged for more flexible travel options.