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Arxan, located in the northwest of Xing'an League in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is known as "Harun Arxan," meaning "Holy Water." It's said that the world's largest hot springs have flowed here for centuries. Arxan straddles the southwestern foothills of the Greater Khingan Range and borders Mongolia to the west. Once a prime pasture for the Mongols, it also served as a historical military fortress. Arxan City is China's largest "village" and its smallest county-level city. The phrase "ninety-one streets, 780,000 people" simply and clearly describes Arxan. While nominally a county-level city, Arxan, with only three main roads running north and south, is less than half the size of the neighboring town of Yirshi, allowing for a leisurely stroll through the area in half a day.
The filming location for "Dear Inn 2" has finally been revealed: the little-known, hidden tourist destination of Arxan. Liu Tao said, "I often wonder, if we were to set out again, where would we go? To find a place of peace and tranquility, to watch all things grow. What is heaven and earth? It's nothing more than holding your hand, listening to the gentle breeze. What is the universe? With you by my side, watching the flowers bloom and fall, judging the beauty of heaven and earth, analyzing the principles of all things." The first season of the show ignited Lugu Lake, and the second season of Arxan is poised to create another wave of excitement. Be sure to check it out before it's too late.
(The above pictures are from Tencent)
In this golden October, Arxan will fully display its autumn charm in a different way. But in fact, in spring, Arxan is a completely different scene with the Xing'an azaleas all over the mountains. The azaleas are in full bloom, especially those in the birch forests, which are particularly beautiful.
(Picture from the Internet)
(Picture from the Internet)
The winter in Arxan is pure, the blue sky reflects the white snow, and the rime gleams silvery white in the sunlight, glittering and translucent. Looking around, the towering mountains are frozen like jade, and the ancient pines, white birch trees and weeping willows are covered in silver, undulating endlessly.
(Picture from the Internet)
As early as the Spring and Autumn Period, the Arxan region was the territory of northern nomadic tribes. Because Arxan served as a crucial route connecting the Greater Khingan Range to the north and south, it was a battleground for military strategists throughout history. During the Warring States Period and the Qin and Han Dynasties, the northern nomadic tribes gradually formed two opposing tribal alliances: the Donghu and the Xiongnu. For generations, these tribes relied on the Khalkha River for survival and prosperity. Legend has it that in 209 BC, a war broke out between the Xiongnu and the Donghu in the Khalkha River basin, and the Xiongnu defeated the Donghu. From then on, the Donghu split into two factions: one moved northward into the Greater Khingan Range and later became the Xianbei; the other moved southward to the area around present-day Chifeng and later became the Wuhuan.
According to modern archaeologist Wang Guowei's research, a famous battle in the history of the Mongols and Yuan Dynasty - the Battle of Kuyitan - was fought in a mountain area near the upper reaches of the Khalkha River. The twelve eastern tribes, led by Temujin's sworn brother Jamuka, fought a fierce battle for the grassland with the coalition forces of Temujin and Wang Khan, and Jamuka's coalition forces were defeated.
In the early days of the Liao Dynasty, Yelu Abaoji's three younger brothers launched a rebellion and fought an important battle in Chaihe. In the "Battle of Chaihe", the three younger brothers were defeated and fled to Yuhe where they were captured.
During the Yuan Dynasty, despite his advanced age of 73, Kublai Khan personally commanded several important battles from his elephant chariot. "The Great Khan's Campaign Against the Rebel King Nayan" in The Travels of Marco Polo records Kublai Khan's campaign against the rebel king Nayan in the area of the present-day Songbei Port in Arxan.
During the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, Mount Suoyueerji became a mountain for joint worship by the peoples of Jirim, Hulunbuir, Xilin Gol and Khalkha.
In Inner Mongolia, mention of a great figure is often made—Genghis Khan. Arxan is no exception. According to the Heilongjiang Annals, Genghis Khan once hunted in the Arxan region. The Journey to the West by Changchun Zhenren (Changchun Zhenren) confirms this claim, stating, "Within a 500-li radius, all the leaders were loaded with horses and milk, and thousands of carts and felt tents were lined up." A visit to Hadanangou in Arxan National Geopark reveals ancient rock paintings depicting hunting scenes by our ancestors. Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty designated this area as a royal hunting ground and even enjoyed hot spring baths there. In the late Qing Dynasty, extensive grassland was even cultivated here. It's easy to imagine that this mountain forest once harbored a diverse array of species and abundant resources.
Arxan, originally named "Harun Arxan," means "Hot Holy Spring" in Mongolian. It was named for its abundant hot spring resources. According to data, Arxan's 48 mineral springs are distributed across a narrow strip of land 540 meters long and 70 meters wide. These springs are renowned for their miraculous healing properties. The most famous is the "Wuli Spring," located 2.5 kilometers north of Arxan. During the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty, Aola Changxing trekked through mountains and rivers to discover 32 springs along the Harabahantai River (now the Arxan River). Construction began on the construction of sanatorium facilities, which became the earliest Arxan Holy Water Sanatorium.
The name Arxan also evokes a connection with Genghis Khan. Legend has it that on the eve of his campaign against the Tatars, Temujin and his soldiers suffered from severe stomach ailments, significantly reducing their fighting capacity. With battle imminent, Temujin was terrified. One day, while hunting alone on horseback, he crossed several mountains and suddenly saw a vast expanse of light. The valley was shrouded in colorful clouds, flowers were in bloom, and countless deer and roe deer grazed the meadows. At the foot of the mountain, mist rose, and a spring gushed forth, shimmering in the sunlight like a thousand golden rays. Temujin approached the spring and felt a chill. After a few sips, his stomach aches miraculously disappeared. His injured warhorse also recovered after drinking from the spring. Overjoyed, Temujin wept, feeling a rebirth bestowed by the Eternal Heaven. He knelt before the spring, exclaiming, "Arxan (holy spring), Arxan (holy spring)!" He then ordered his troops to gather at the spring and drink from it.
Today's Arxan mineral water is taken from the most beautiful, pure, zero-pollution water source deep in the Greater Khingan Range. The water temperature is 2 degrees Celsius all year round. It is known as active mineral water. It comes from 3,000 meters deep rock formations and has been flowing for thousands of years. Every drop of water is filtered through natural mineral rock formations and is rich in various beneficial minerals and trace elements. The water quality is naturally weakly alkaline, with a sweet and smooth taste. It is refreshing to drink and is very beneficial to physical and mental health if consumed for a long time.
Arxan doesn't actually refer to a single mountain; it's more accurately called the Arxan region, while Arxan City itself is a tranquil, exotic town. Currently, with Arxan as its center, it can be divided into four main tourist destinations: east, west, south, and north. These include several major scenic areas, including Arxan National Forest Park, Arxan Volcanic Hot Springs National Geopark, and Haosengou National Forest Park.
Arxan North LineArxan's northern route primarily focuses on Arxan National Forest Park, located at the southwestern foot of the Greater Khingan Range in Inner Mongolia. The park covers a total area of 103,150 hectares, of which 17 hectares are planted forest. The park's topography reflects the volcanic lava landscape of the western Greater Khingan Range. Lava congestion and water flow have resulted in a mosaic of truncated cones, such as Tianchi and Tuofengling. The park is traversed by three rivers—the Halaha River, the Chai River, and the Yimin River—as well as numerous lakes, including Tianchi, Dujuan Lake, Wusu Langzi Lake, Luming Lake, and Songye Lake.
We generally recommend entering Arxan Forest Park from Chaihe (Moon Town), and visiting the Grand Canyon, Camelback Ridge, Azalea Lake, Turtle Back Rock, Shitang Forest, Santan Gorge, Arxan Heavenly Lake, and Wusu Langzi Lake in that order. A recommended visit lasts one to two days; one day is more stressful, so staying overnight makes a two-day visit more suitable. On the first day, after entering from Chaihe, watch the sunset over Azalea Lake, then stay overnight at the Xing'an Service Area to admire the star-filled sky. In the morning, you can visit Wusu Langzi Lake to witness the morning mist. Two days is more relaxing, while one day is more demanding, and you can't visit every site; you'll need to be selective.
1. Tuofengling Tianchi Lake
Arxan boasts two Tianchi Lakes: Arxan Tianchi and Tuofengling Tianchi. Tuofengling Tianchi is a high-lying lake formed by water accumulating in the crater following a volcanic eruption. At 1,284 meters above sea level, the lake's overall shape resembles a human foot, measuring approximately 450 meters from east to west and 800 meters from north to south. It was formed 300,000 years ago.
After getting off at the entrance parking lot, walk up the mountain without turning back. The approximately 2.5-kilometer wooden plank path, with its ups and downs, is recommended for 1.5-2 hours. If you have the chance, walk to the lakeside, where you'll find pumice stones. You can choose any stone and throw it into the lake. If it doesn't sink, it's considered pumice. Pumice is actually volcanic rock filled with bubbles.
2. Rhododendron Lake
Dujuan Lake, formed when lava flows blocked a river valley during a volcanic eruption, covers 128 hectares and boasts a flowing, flowing water, offering breathtaking scenery year-round. It gets its name from the vibrant bloom of the Xing'an azaleas that bloom along the lakeshore as the snow melts and spring arrives. At sunset, enjoy the spectacular sight of the sun setting, casting a shimmering golden glow across the lake.
In summer, the lake is covered in fields of duckweed, swaying in the breeze and emitting a refreshing fragrance, reminiscent of the beauty of the Jiangnan region. In autumn, the water is as clear as a mirror, the surrounding forests are dyed in a vibrant color, and the lake surface ripples with golden waves. In winter, the lake is covered in snow, and the water turns to ice, creating a natural ice rink. It can be said that the scenery is different every season, and it seems that you need to visit Arxan in every season to truly experience its beauty.
(Picture from the Internet)
3. Ussuri Prodigal Lake
Wusu Langzi Lake, formerly known as Paozi No. 49, covers 135 hectares and has an average depth of 2.5 meters. Surrounded by mountains, its mirror-like surface is exceptionally high, and its waters are abundant with cold-water fish such as carp and whitefish. Based on its topography and water distribution, Wusu Langzi Lake may also be a crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption.
In the early morning, the morning glow illuminates the lake, casting a myriad of golden rays. During the day, countless seagulls, wild ducks, and ospreys chase and play, sometimes soaring into the sky. Swans and mandarin ducks roam freely in pairs. Accompanied by melodious fishermen's songs, fishing boats gently paddle their oars across the lake, casting their nets and catching fish. Visitors can fish from the boats or prepare their own dishes made from freshwater fish, savoring the delicious flavors of various fat fish and fully immersing themselves in the natural purity and tranquility, a truly unique experience.
4. Khalkha River (Non-Ice River)
"Halaha" means "barrier" in Mongolian. Also known as the "Halxin River," it forms the border between China and Mongolia. Because its west bank is higher than its east bank, the west bank appears as a long barrier when viewed from the east bank, hence the name. The Halaha River is the source of the Wuerxun River, and the valley where it meets the Wulun River is a photographer's paradise, known as the most beautiful section of the Halaha River. The scenery is exceptionally beautiful, with lush vegetation on both sides, towering ancient trees, and the water flowing with breathtaking clarity.
(Picture from the Internet)
(Picture from the Internet)
5. Santanxia
Santan Gorge, located in the upper reaches of the Halaha River, is approximately 3 kilometers long. Its body is composed of schist of varying sizes. The turbulent Halaha River flows through the valley, a whirlwind of water, volcanic lava covering the riverbed, and the deep waters are as smooth as a mirror. This section of the river still retains ice and snow in June, earning it the nickname "Summer Glacier." The canyon boasts three pools, hence the name Santan Gorge. These pools are: Woniu Pool, where the river flows calmly, and large and small lying-cow stones are placed across the river in front of it, resembling a herd of cattle resting in the water; Tiger Stone Pool, where above the calm waters, the river is dotted with huge rocks of various shapes, resembling tigers playing in the river; and Yuexin Pool, at the end of the canyon, where the ground suddenly opens up, the river widens, and the water is crystal clear, with a clear bottom visible.
(Picture from Arxan Tourism Network)
6. Shitang Forest
Shitanglin, a geological relic of a Quaternary volcanic eruption, is Asia's largest recently extinct volcanic basalt landform and one of the wonders of the Greater Khingan Range. Its pristine geological structure, soils, vegetation, and biotopes, reminiscent of biodiversity, recreate the entire process of plant succession from lower to higher order, making it of high scientific and conservation value. Shitanglin's scenery lies not in its natural beauty but in the authentic remnants of a volcanic eruption. As far as the eye can see and the foot can reach, a maze of rugged, crisscrossing lava concretions is truly spectacular.
(Picture from Arxan Tourism Network)
(Picture from Arxan Tourism Network)
7. Meet new friends unexpectedly
The vast natural world is filled with all sorts of bizarre creatures. While visiting Arxan, I encountered a unique new friend. It's neither a mouse nor a rabbit, yet it resembles both, with a distinctive call. It's particularly adept at storing food for the onset of winter. Close your eyes and imagine this: a small, rounded quadruped with lush fur. Its snout resembles a rabbit's, with a distinct vertical cleft on its upper lip, dividing its mouth into three parts. But it also has the short, rounded ears of a mouse, a bare butt, and no tail.
Time for some science: Adorable pikas resemble both rats and rabbits, with small bodies, short ears, dark eyes, and dark brown fur. While they belong to the order Lagomorpha, they are distinct from the common rabbit family and have their own distinct family: Ochotonidae. Congratulations! You've taken another step forward in your scientific endeavors.
The chipmunk, also known as the birch mouse, five-browed rat, flower civet, and chipmunk, belongs to the genus Chipmunk of the family Sciuridae. It gets its name from the several parallel stripes of light and dark on its back. It is medium-sized, with a long, fluffy, broom-like tail that extends to its sides. Its limbs are slightly elongated, and its ears are prominently visible above the fur. Chipmunks are found in Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hebei, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan, and Henan in China. Outside of China, they are found in Siberia, Ussuriyya, Sakhalin Island, North Korea, and northern Japan in the former Soviet Union. This species is included in the "National List of Terrestrial Wildlife of Beneficial or Important Economic or Scientific Research Value" issued by the State Forestry Administration on August 1, 2000.
Tips:
Arxan Forest Park Tickets
Off-season (October 16th - May 31st of the following year): 150 yuan/person; Peak season (June 1st - October 15th): 180 yuan/person
Note: The Aershan Scenic Bus charges 105 yuan per person (a mandatory fee, whether you drive or take the scenic bus, you must pay 105 yuan per person. Children under 1.2 meters tall (including 1.2 meters) are free of entrance and sightseeing bus tickets.)
Arxan Forest Park opening hours
Off-season (October 16th - May 31st) 8:30-15:00; Peak season (June 1st - October 15th) 7:00-17:00
* The above information is for reference only. Other specific details such as preferential policies shall be subject to the information of the scenic spot on the day.
1. Nanxing'an Tunnel
The Nanxing'an Tunnel, located 10 kilometers northwest of Bailang Town, is located within the Nanxing'an-Arxan section of the Baicheng-Arxan Railway. At 3,218.5 meters long, it is the longest railway tunnel in Inner Mongolia. In the early 20th century, Japanese imperialism began construction of the Baicheng-Arxan Railway in August 1929 to plunder the Nanxing'an region's abundant resources, particularly its timber, to achieve its so-called "war-to-support-war" strategy and to transport military supplies to the Nomonhan region. Simultaneously with the construction of the Baicheng-Arxan Railway, construction of the Nanxing'an Tunnel began in June 1935. Both the railway and the tunnel remain in use today. In May 1996, the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region People's Government designated it a Key Cultural Relic Protection Site.
2. Aolunbukan Scenic Area
The Aershan Aolunbukan Scenic Area boasts grasslands, forests, volcanoes, glaciers, wetlands, flower fields, and lakes, covering a total area of 256 square kilometers. It preserves the historical imprint of the lost Tungusic civilization in a relatively complete manner. The scenic area offers a variety of fantastic experiences, including tribal visits, Black Forest treks, wild river rafting, a container-themed hotel, self-drive campgrounds, starry-sky rooms, functional hot springs, off-road driving, and traditional volcanic rock barbecues. Simply put, this is a man-made scenic area that "recreates" the hunting culture of the Tungusic tribes. However, it lacks the fame of Arshan Forest Park and has been overlooked. Those with sufficient stamina can explore the entire area entirely on foot, with uneven stone steps leading up the mountain for leisurely strolls. Beware of the unexpected black bears, so don't be startled.
It's worth mentioning that Bailang Town, not far from Olunbukan, is the filming location for "Dear Inn 2." Before the show's arrival, there was a drive-in campground here, but it's only open from mid-to-late June to mid-September. There are glass houses like the ones used by the show's crew, where you can enjoy the stars, and there's also a container hotel, but it's a bit pricey (a two-bedroom, one-living room container is 880 yuan/night with breakfast, while a glass house is 1,000 yuan/night with breakfast). They don't have online platform integration, so you need to call to connect. What attracted me most to this campground was its complete integration with nature, and the birch rats that often visit.
The Aolunbukan Scenic Area is the filming location for the Black Forest Crossing in "Running Man". It is also an excellent place for bicycle camping and wild river rafting. You can also find the Aolunbukan tribe and experience the Aolunbukan cuisine!
Tips:
1. Tickets
Adult ticket: 120 yuan (including performances and sightseeing train)
2. Opening hours: 8:00-17:00
1. Haosengou
Haosengou National Forest Park is located approximately 124 kilometers southeast of Arxan City. Its name, "Dry Valley" in Mongolian, refers to the drought and water shortages that plague the area in spring. The park's pristine nature is its appeal. Cell phone service is virtually non-existent here, so don't venture alone; always travel in a group. There are only two routes into the valley: one leads to the bottom (a dirt path) where you follow the stone path downhill to the end, where you'll find yourself crossing the mountain stream. The other leads uphill (on a wooden plank path) bordered by a vast birch forest. The path at the end of the plank path is more challenging, with no stone path, only dirt. There are few side roads, and the entire area can be explored in about two hours. You'll also see the canyon and suspension bridge. During your visit, look up to see Qilin Peak (the main peak of Haosengou) and Hunter Peak, which face each other across the Tianhe Gorge.
(Picture from the Internet)
(Picture from the Internet)
Tips:
Haosengou Transportation
1. Take a bus from Arxan City to the town of Mingshuihe. Buses depart from here around 10:00 AM daily for Haosengou Forest Farm, with fares costing 10-20 yuan. However, there are no buses from Haosengou to the scenic area, so you'll need to find a car yourself. If you're traveling from Hohhot to Arxan City by bus, you'll pass Mingshuihe on the way.
2. If you charter a car from Arxan Forest Park, you can buy a 2-day ticket to Arxan Forest Park, but if you are unlucky, you may be charged a "toll" when you exit.
2. Arxan Railway Station
Built in 1937, Aershan Railway Station is a two-story building constructed in an Oriental style using a mixture of brick, wood, granite, and steel. The ground floor is surrounded by a granite wall with random stone inserts, and the roof is covered with ochre cement. This is perhaps the most beautiful of China's small train stations, somewhat reminiscent of a Swiss station. Watching the sunset from the station at dusk is truly captivating. The interior of Aershan Railway Station is quite small, and you must purchase a ticket to enter if you want to take photos on the platform. If you have a passion for train stations, Aershan Railway Station is a must-see.
While many people may be unfamiliar with Taiwan's Pingxi Line, you might be unaware that the train to Arxan shares a similar aesthetic. Both lines were originally built by the invading Japanese army to exploit local mineral resources, and today, both have become iconic "scenic railways" in mainland China and Taiwan. As the train moves forward, the scenery unfolds outside the window, a long-awaited feast for railway enthusiasts. "China's Most Beautiful Train Station" has become a must-see destination for all of us in 2019.
(Picture from the Internet)
(Picture from the Internet)
Tips:
Arxan Railway Station
Currently, there are only a few trains arriving in Arxan, with trains departing from Ulanhot, Shenyang, Baicheng, Hailar, and Changchun. Due to Arxan's remote location and small size, summer and winter train schedules vary, so please check for specific trains according to the season.
1. Rose Peak
On the road from Yirshi to Manzhouli, there's a scenic area of more than ten stone peaks, each arranged in a jagged, interlaced pattern. Because most of the peaks are reddish-brown, they're named "Rose Peak," also known as "Red Stone Lazi." Ascending from the central stone steps of Rose Peak, the left peak rises at an almost 90-degree angle, making it quite steep. Standing at the highest point of Rose Peak, one can overlook the surrounding landscape: rolling hills bear a vibrant array of life, wheat fields tumble like waves, vast as the ocean, and the Halaha River flows around the peak like a silver chain.
(Picture from the Internet)
2. Arxan Port
As you can see from the map, Arxan borders Mongolia. The Arxan Port, located at Menshan on the right bank of the Numurgen River on the China-Mongolia border, corresponds to the Songbel Port in Mongolia and is a Class II national port. A trip to Hulunbuir offers many opportunities to check in, including the Manchuria Sino-Russian Port and the Shiwei Sino-Russian Port.
(Picture from the Internet)
(Picture from the Internet)
1. Train
Everyone has their preferred mode of travel. Convenience and affordability aside, my favorite is the train. With a whistle, amidst the clatter and chug of the train, I slowly and leisurely sail towards my longed-for destination. For Arshan, departing in the evening and arriving the next morning saves time, and with luck, you might even witness the morning mist from the train. Daytime trains offer a feast for the eyes, allowing you to quietly admire the stunning forest scenery outside the window.
"Dear Inn 2" departed from China's most beautiful train station and headed to Xiaolu Village in Bailang Town for filming. From then on, the fairytale town boasting "China's most beautiful train station" could no longer be hidden. According to the first episode, the five main cast members of "Dear Inn 2" arrived at Yiershi Airport and then headed to Arxan Railway Station to board the train to Bailang. There are two trains from Arxan to Bailang (one in the morning and one in the afternoon), with hard seat tickets priced at 4-9 yuan. Based on the time displayed, it was clearly the morning train.
Arxan Railway Station, arguably the most beautiful small railway station in China, boasts a history of over 80 years. A two-story, Japanese-style building with low eaves and a peaked roof, it resembles a small Swiss station. Watching the sunset from the station at dusk is truly captivating. Trains from Arxan Railway Station to Ulanhot and Baicheng run year-round, with additional trains to Hailar, Shenyang, and Changchun during the peak tourist season.
▶Shenyang-Arshan
▶Changchun-Arshan
▶Hailar-Arxan
▶Ulanhot-Arxan
Tips: Things to note when traveling on the train to Arxan: Keep your head, feet, arms, or limbs out of the window, as the train passes through forested areas. Avoid getting scratched by branches. Also, avoid littering, cigarette butts, and other items. Pay attention to environmental hygiene and forest fire precautions (especially during the autumn and winter fire ban period).
2. Airplane
The closest airport to Arxan Forest Park is Yiershi Airport, China's smallest, located 10 km from the city center, 55 km from the park, and 6.5 km from Arxan Railway Station. Flights to Beijing, Hohhot, and Ulanhot are available year-round, and fares are incredibly low. Direct flights from Beijing start at just over 200 yuan, making a trip during the off-season a great way to enjoy stunning scenery at an affordable price.
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Next, I’ve taken screenshots of two super cost-effective air ticket information for your reference. Generally speaking, winter is the off-season in Arxan, but Arxan’s winter scenery and hot springs are beautiful sights that cannot be missed.
▶Beijing-Arxan
▶Harbin-Arshan
3. Self-driving
Whether traveling from Beijing, Harbin, Hailar, or other places, we recommend choosing an off-road vehicle or SUV (their lower chassis makes it difficult to access poor road conditions, such as Haosengou). Road signs in Arshan are small and sometimes unavailable, so be especially careful not to miss intersections. Due to the abundance of scenic views along the way, you may need to stop every 10 minutes or so. When stopping to admire the scenery, please be mindful of passing vehicles and exercise caution, especially on two-lane sections. Avoid disrupting traffic. This is a reminder to all self-driving drivers, and we encourage everyone to exercise self-discipline.
If you're starting from Beijing, as you can see from the map above, the entire journey is over 1,300 kilometers, which is quite a long distance. If you don't have much time off, it's not recommended for self-driving. If you're looking to explore while traveling, you might consider a self-driving route. It's generally recommended to fly to your destination and drive, such as Shenyang, Changchun, Harbin, or Hailar, and then rent a car there to get to Arxan.
Tips:
Self-driving precautions
1. Always fasten your seat belt. Due to poor road conditions on some sections, the journey may be bumpy. Passengers who are prone to motion sickness should prepare motion sickness medicine.
2. Due to the unpredictable weather on the grasslands, the large temperature swings between day and night, and the strong UV rays, thunderstorms are common after summer. Therefore, it is recommended to bring a fleece jacket, a windbreaker, a simple raincoat, or an umbrella. If you are traveling with a camera, be sure to protect your digital equipment from the rain. Always have sun protection available, including sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Apply sunscreen frequently to protect your skin from UV rays.
3. Don't stray too far from your vehicle or landmarks (such as roads or houses) in forest areas, mountainous areas, or grasslands to avoid getting lost. Mosquitoes are common in forests, mountainous areas, and grasslands in the summer, so bring some herbal ointment to prevent bites. Avoid smoking or lighting open flames in forested areas. In summer and autumn, dead grass, branches, birch wood, and other items on the ground are flammable. Avoid smoking or lighting fires to avoid forest fires.
4. Never be blindly trusting of GPS. GPS may show that there are roads and that you can drive on them, but in reality many roads are impassable. Never drive alone. Each car should have at least two drivers who can drive and have good driving skills, because the bad roads and the fatigue of long-distance driving are beyond your imagination.
5. If you rent a car and drive it yourself, you must do all kinds of maintenance before driving, especially the various parts that need to be replaced; fill up the gas at the gas station, because the next gas station may be more than 200km away from you; keep a few large kettles filled with water in the car, and bring an extra bucket of engine oil and coolant if necessary, because bad road conditions may cause your car to break down, so it is necessary to prepare these things.
1. Self-driving (chartered car)
You can drive to Arshan Forest Park, Haosengou Forest Park, Aolunbukan, etc. The only advantage is that when you see beautiful scenery, you can pull over at any time without affecting others. After all, the most beautiful scenery is on the road. Sometimes only free travel and self-driving can experience the beauty of this place to the greatest extent.
Public transportation in Arxan is particularly underdeveloped, even backward. While taxi fares start at just 5 yuan, which is usually enough to get around town, overcharging is common. Buses are available, but they run at long intervals, making them difficult for outsiders to navigate. There are no online ride-hailing services in the area, including Didi, Uber, and Yidao.
2. Jingjiao Bus (similar to the bus)
Aershan Forest Park has a mandatory sightseeing shuttle bus ticket! Regardless of whether you ride or drive, you must purchase one upon entering the park. This is a bit of an unfair clause. The shuttle bus stops at the Grand Canyon, Tuofengling, Rhododendron Lake, Shitanglin, and Santanxia, but the departure times are difficult to schedule. I personally recommend asking the driver before getting off the bus and leaving some time for sightseeing and taking photos to avoid wasting time waiting for the bus.
The scenic area's sightseeing bus operates from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There are stops at major attractions and service areas. Ticket holders are welcome to ride freely, but be careful not to mistake the route. During non-sightseeing bus hours, you can drive to the scenic area, such as to watch the sunrise. During these hours, visitors can only enter by bus. Self-drive vehicles can be parked at service areas. Those who wish to drive should arrive early and late.
Arshan offers four routes to the east, west, and north. Choose your accommodation based on your travel schedule. With the exception of the northern route (Arshan Forest Park), the other three routes can be completed in one day, allowing you to return to Arshan city or stay in Yiershi. If visiting Arshan Forest Park, a two-day, one-night stay is recommended, staying within the park. Arshan Forest Park has two service areas: the Tianchi Service Area at the foot of Arshan Tianchi Mountain, closer to the park entrance; and the Xing'an Service Area near Dujuan Lake (where Turtle Back Rock is located). Accommodation and dining are available at these service areas, but the conditions are quite basic (a small standard room with a private bathroom is considered quite good), and the prices are high. The food is also high and average. If you visit Arshan in September, be sure to dress warmly, as the mountain can be very cold both morning and night. Accommodation generally provides electric blankets; if not, be sure to ask for them.
Arxan City, located in the northwest of Xing'an League in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, straddles the southwestern foothills of the Greater Khingan Range. It serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the Xing'an League forest region and is one of the highest cities in China. Yiershi Town, located at the northernmost tip of Arxan City, Xing'an League, Inner Mongolia, borders Hulunbuir to the north. Previously a village-level administrative unit, Yiershi was known as the "No. 1 Village in the World" and served as an economic hub for Arxan City. Accommodation in Arxan City and Yiershi Town is relatively superior to that in the forest park, and hot spring hotels are also available. However, Yiershi is larger, has a larger population, and offers better urban facilities. Arxan City, still considered a tourist destination, commands higher prices.
They say, "If you live by the mountains, you eat the mountains; if you live by the sea, you eat the sea." Indeed, if you visit Arxan, the local delicacies are unmissable, including a variety of wild mushrooms, vegetables, and fish, all healthy, natural, and highly nutritious. Arxan is part of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, so naturally, you can't miss out on beef and mutton. Enjoy authentic Inner Mongolian specialties like roasted lamb leg, hand-pulled pork, and milk tea. Although located in Inner Mongolia, Arxan is close to the Northeast, so the stews, iron pot stews, and other Northeastern dishes are equally delicious and worth a try.
If I ask you where to go to see snow in winter, many people's first reaction would be to places like Snow Town in Northeast China or Hokkaido, Japan. If you only think of places like Snow Town and Changbai Mountain, you're wrong. More and more people are seeking niche, original, and non-commercial experiences, and Arxan perfectly meets all these requirements. There are no crowds here, only breathtaking scenery. Best of all, direct flights from Beijing are available for as little as 198 yuan.
Arxan in winter can be described in a few words: blanketed in silver, boundless expanses of ice, a sea of snowy forests, a fairytale-like world of ice and snow. Rime-covered snowfields, mysterious ancient springs, a blazing, unfrozen river, and rolling, tranquil mountains—every angle creates a breathtaking spectacle. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of Arxan, you'll be captivated by the sight, your eyes wandering in a paradise, like stepping into a fairytale world of ice and snow.
When it comes to rime, the first thing that comes to mind is the rime on Jilin's Wusong Island. However, seeing the rime on Wusong Island requires a combination of favorable weather, location, and people, all of which are essential. Consequently, even after many visits, the chance to see them is rare. The rime in Arxan, on the other hand, is more rare, lasts longer, and is more likely to be seen. Due to the perpetually unfrozen Halaha River, the large temperature swing between day and night in winter, and the dense forests of the Linhaixueyuan, rime can be seen virtually all winter long.
Located in Bailangling, the filming location for "Dear Inn 2," this scenic rime corridor boasts the longest continuous rime display in the world. Every winter, the shimmering white rime transforms the area into a romantic, snowy fairytale. The Greater Khingan Range boasts a rich variety of tree species, including birch, larch, and Scots pine. Rime covers the branches of these trees, creating a translucent, shimmering scene that sparkles in the sunlight.
(Picture from the Internet)
(Picture from the Internet)
(Picture from the Internet)
Arxan's full name, "Harun Arxan," means "Holy Water." So, a visit to Arxan is essential: soaking in its hot springs. The hot springs are named after the China Hot Spring Museum, which houses the world's largest collection of bathable and drinkable hot springs. A renowned mineral spring resort in Inner Mongolia, Arxan boasts 42 springs covering just one square kilometer. Each spring has distinct temperatures and chemical compositions, offering unique treatments for dozens of chronic ailments.
The Arxan mineral springs are Quaternary volcanic springs, formed by volcanic activity. All 48 of the springs are naturally occurring, pure natural springs. Cold and hot springs coexist in one location, just 0.3 meters apart. One spring boasts steaming temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius, while the other is bone-chillingly cold at just 2 degrees Celsius. This is why they are known as "the world's most unique spring." Legend has it that the water from different springs has miraculous effects on treating ailments in certain parts of the body. They are known as "holy springs." Many people come to Arxan specifically for the hot springs.
Visiting Arxan in winter, with snowflakes fluttering, and bathing in the hot springs amidst the icy snow, the "ice and fire" experience is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For winter skiing, the Arxan Ski Resort is the perfect choice. With a seven-month-long snowy season, excellent snow quality, and an average snow depth exceeding 350mm, the unique mountainous terrain provides unparalleled resources for winter sports and tourism, making it a natural ski resort. Nestled among mountains and forests, the Arxan Ski Resort is the only large-scale, multifunctional ski resort in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region that integrates various competitions, training, and public entertainment. It boasts top-tier standards and is one of the best ski resorts in China. Following careful inspection and personal experience by the National Ski Team, the Arxan Ski Resort has been designated as the team's training venue.
The most important reason is that this place is suitable for skiing for the whole family. The beginner slopes are very complete, and even if you fall all day, you won't feel particularly painful. It is the first choice for skiing for families of all ages.
Tips: Ticket information
Weekday ticket: 2 hours 80 yuan; 4 hours 120 yuan; all day 150 yuan. Weekend ticket: 2 hours 100 yuan; 4 hours 150 yuan; all day 180 yuan.
Before the release of "Dear Inn 2," it was a hidden paradise. Since then, Arxan has perhaps become increasingly popular, with visitors flocking in. Before Arxan becomes a major hit, this winter, why not visit Arxan to see its true beauty and spend a weekend in this remote border town?
