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The term "Northeast" has a long history. The "Zhou Li" (Book of Zhou) states, "The Northeast is called Youzhou, and its mountain is called Yiwulv." This geographical division of China into four directions, with the Northeast being one of them, is described. A later passage in the "Huainanzi" (Book of Huainan) states, "The thin Northeast is called Yintu." The term "Northeast" was formally recognized in modern times after the Xinhai Revolution.
Where is Northeast China? Many people think that the three provinces we often talk about, Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang, are the Northeast, but in fact, the three northeastern provinces are not the same as the Northeast!
The Northeast region actually refers to the area comprising Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang provinces, as well as the five eastern leagues and municipalities of Inner Mongolia. The demarcation line is drawn northward from Shanhaiguan, with the area east and north of that line defining the Northeast. The Northeast region covers 1.52 million square kilometers, accounting for 15.8% of China's total land area. It's truly a vast region with abundant resources.
Picture @Wenwu
"Ice and snow" and "escaping the summer heat" have always been two of the most popular themes for Northeast China tourism. The Northeast's harsh winters and cool summers are a true draw for visitors. Every winter, tourists from all over the country eagerly anticipate a trip to the Northeast to see the snow, experience temperatures as low as -30°C, and savor the unique joys of the icy world. In summer, Hulunbuir's vast grasslands and temperatures in the low twenties offer a respite from the scorching heat.
The travel guides for summer and winter in Northeast China that can be found everywhere have made people feel a little numb. Most tourists will subjectively ignore the autumn in Northeast China, but they don’t know that the most colorful and beautiful season in Northeast China is its autumn.
Autumn here is breathtakingly beautiful. The Greater and Lesser Khingan Mountains, along with Changbai Mountain, alone account for 37% of China's total forest area. This region, home to unique zonal tree species and rare species from the Tertiary Period, brings a rich and vibrant autumn hue to Northeast China! Yet, its striking beauty remains largely overlooked. Summers are too hot, winters too cold. Why not embark on this enchanting journey in autumn and experience the unique romance of Northeast China?
Photo @ China-TravelNote
Make your first autumn trip to Northeast China! Discover the first place in China to embrace autumn, where the wind blows a leaf and everything is captivated by autumn! The golden glow of the Greater Khingan Mountains, the vibrant colors of Changbai Mountain, the fiery red maple leaves of Benxi, and the rare crimson coastline...the beauty is captivating. Of all the colors in the world, autumn is at its peak in Northeast China. This fairytale world of golden autumn awaits you!
Photo @ China-TravelNote
Have you ever seen the Red Sea? Hailed by National Geographic as one of China's six most beautiful wetlands, Red Beach offers a magical spectacle of half seawater and half fire.
Red Beach isn't really a beach! The red color of the beach here is actually due to the presence of a plant called Suaeda salsa, the only grass that can survive on saline soil. It emerges from the ground in April each year, starting with a tender red around May and gradually deepening to a purplish red in September and October. Panjin's Red Beach extends toward the sea at a rate of 50 meters per year, always chasing the waves.
When the autumn wind blows across the Bohai Bay, the migratory birds that inhabit the Red Beach begin to flock southward, and the endless salsa grass will also surround this beach and burn with red. When the autumn wind blows across the Bohai Bay, the migratory birds that inhabit the Red Beach begin to flock southward, and the endless salsa grass will also surround this beach and burn with red.
Picture @Photo.net
Special bus:
You can take a bus to the Red Beach Resort from the entrance of the Xinglongtai Jinjiang Hotel in the city. The bus runs about every hour and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. At the entrance of the resort, take a taxi or tricycle to the entrance of the Red Beach Scenic Area, which takes about 10 minutes.
Taxi or chartered car:
Panjin Railway Station is approximately 50 kilometers from the Red Beach Scenic Area. It's best to have your driver take you directly to the main entrance of the Red Beach Scenic Area, rather than dropping you off at the Red Beach Resort Reception Center, to avoid wasting time and transferring.
Tips:
Pedestrians can enter the area free of charge before 4:00 PM (until September 15th). Reservations can be made through the official Panjin Red Beach account. Once inside, you'll need to purchase a small train ticket for 45 RMB per person. The scenic area stretches 18 kilometers, so don't even think about walking! Vehicles can enter after 4:30 PM, and the fee is 49 RMB per person.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
The Red Beach area is quite large, so unless you're planning on running a marathon, you'll need to purchase a shuttle bus. There are three attractions within the area: Sounds of Time, Heart to the Sea, and Rice Dream Space. The first two are recommended for one hour, while Rice Dream Space is recommended for two hours.
The scenic area, "The Sound of Time, Together Towards the Sea," is a wooden boardwalk that extends to the Suaeda salsa mudflats. After getting off the bus, guests can walk along the boardwalk and take photos freely. There are also many water birds, crabs and other animals here.
The Rice Dream Space is a rice field exhibition area with many earth paintings, using rice to cut into different shapes. There is also a tower for aerial photography. Drones are also a good perspective.
The best time to see the Red Beach is in the morning. If you're lucky and it's a sunny day, as the tide recedes, the vibrant red sedge begins to emerge from the water, like a red carpet gradually unfolding. This dynamic feeling is truly unique and can't be experienced at other times. If you arrive later, you won't be able to see the gradual revealing of the red, and the dried mud and water will make the red grass look gray, not as vibrant and eye-catching as it was just after the tide receded.
Picture from the Internet
The recommended time for a visit to the Red Beach Scenic Area is 4.5 hours! Please allow plenty of time! (There are only a few small shops in the scenic area, and no places to eat, so it is recommended to prepare some dry food and snacks in advance)
It! The place where tombs were robbed in Uncle San's novels! The ten-year promise in the hearts of countless people! Its already well-known reputation was further boosted by the influence of "Grave Robbers' Chronicles."
Picture @Wenwu
Stay together till we grow old together! Changbai Mountain, also known as Mount Paektu, is located on the China-North Korea border. It is sacred to the Korean people and is considered the "Mountain of Friendship" between China and North Korea. Changbai Mountain is most famous for its summit, the Tianchi Lake. However, viewing the lake requires a bit of luck, and many tourists return multiple times just to catch a glimpse of this, China's largest crater lake.
It's said that only one-third of the population can see Tianchi Lake each year. Those who brave the long and arduous journey are rewarded with breathtaking scenery. While Tianchi Lake's fame alone is enough to overshadow everything else, it doesn't fully capture its essence. Changbai Lake's charm lies in its magnificent Changbai Waterfall, the graceful Luyuantan Lake, and the tranquil forests at the bottom of the valley.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
Everyone knows Changbai Mountain is a great place to escape the summer heat and enjoy the snow in winter. But the autumn scenery, which lasts only three to four weeks a year, is also breathtakingly beautiful! There's no need to specifically visit a particular scenic spot to catch the fall; the entire route boasts a vibrant array of vibrant forests. And because autumn rain is less abundant, your chances of seeing the full beauty of Tianchi Lake are significantly increased! Changbai Mountain in autumn is truly stunning against the backdrop of the setting sun. The endless expanse of forest resembles a scroll unfolding, and the scenery changes with each passing moment, creating a breathtaking spectacle. A stroll through the Changbai Mountain forests offers a rare opportunity to savor this tranquil retreat.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
There are currently three slopes in the Changbai Mountain Scenic Area: North Slope, East Slope, and South Slope. Since the West Slope is located in North Korea, it will not be introduced in this article.
The North Slope was developed first and is the most popular choice for tourists. It boasts numerous attractions and well-developed surrounding infrastructure. With shuttle services available and minimal walking, the North Slope is ideal for those traveling with children or those seeking a relaxing getaway.
The west slope, developed relatively recently, is less crowded and more pristine than the north slope. If you prefer a less crowded area, consider the west slope! It boasts the magnificent Jinjiang Grand Canyon and 1,442 steps, offering a wider view of Tianchi Lake than the north slope. It's perfect for those who enjoy the spectacular scenery of Tianchi Lake and hiking.
The southern slope was developed the latest and is relatively remote. It's only open from July to October. With a limited number of 1,500 tickets available daily, getting one is a matter of sheer speed! You'll also need to pass three border inspections along the way (ID card required). From the mountaintop, you can overlook North Korea. The southern slope offers the closest and widest views of Tianchi Lake.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
There are four small towns around the Changbai Mountain Scenic Area for tourists to stay, namely Erdaobaihe Town on the north slope, Songjianghe Town on the west slope, Wanda Resort Town, and Jinjiang Wooden House Village.
If you're planning to visit the North Slope, I highly recommend staying in Erdaobaihe Town, located on the North Slope. As the gateway to the North Slope of Changbai Mountain, Chibei District is the primary choice for most visitors. Developed early, and with the town being a local residence, accommodation and transportation are convenient and affordable. If you're planning to visit the West Slope, Songjianghe Town is recommended, as it's close to the tourist hub and offers a wide variety of options.
Map by @Wenwu
Highly recommended for first-time visitors!!! Tour route: Mountain Gate - Tianchi Transfer Center - Tianchi - Changbai Waterfall - Hot Springs - Xiaotianchi - Luyuantan - Underground Forest - North Slope Mountain Gate, from the top of the mountain to the bottom, the whole tour takes about 6 hours.
Picture from the Internet
From the transfer center, take an eco-friendly shuttle bus directly to the waterfall parking lot (10 minutes one way). A short hike up the plank road will bring you to Julong Spring and Changbai Waterfall. Changbai Waterfall, the outlet of Tianchi Lake, boasts a spectacular 68-meter drop. The hot spring plaza sells uniquely flavored hot spring eggs, which you can try. You can also wash your hands in the nearby hot spring pool and soak in the volcanic hot springs.
From the waterfall parking lot, a five-minute eco-friendly vehicle ride takes you to Xiaotianchi, a tranquil lake whose surface reflects the graceful forms of trees. After a few minutes here, you can retrace your steps along the plank path, where you'll see the Erdaobai River flowing through a narrow canyon. After about 15 minutes, you'll reach the entrance to Luyuantan. Another five-minute drive takes you to the entrance to the underground forest. Strolling along the plank path through the pristine forest is a refreshing experience, and at the end, you'll overlook the forest below.
Picture @Photo.net
Tips:
The hot spring square here sells uniquely flavored hot spring eggs. Be sure to try them if you're passing by; they're only available on the north slope! You can also wash your hands in the nearby hot spring pool and experience the unique volcanic hot springs of Changbai Mountain!
Photo @ China-TravelNote
There are three scenic spots in Xipo: Tianchi, Jinjiang Grand Canyon and Wangchi
Picture from the Internet
Once you enter the mountain gate, you can take an eco-friendly bus directly up the mountain to see Tianchi Lake. The ride takes about 50 minutes. From the eco-friendly bus parking lot to the summit, you need to hike up 1,440 steps, which takes about half an hour.
The steps leading up the mountain are wide, and there are guardrails along the way where you can rest, so the climb isn't too tiring. At the top, you'll find a large viewing platform, offering panoramic views of Tianchi Lake and the surrounding peaks. Next to the platform are the sacred and solemn boundary markers between the two countries. Photos are welcome on both sides, but be careful not to cross the ropes that serve as barriers. After returning to the parking lot, take an eco-friendly bus down the mountain and begin your visit to the various smaller attractions. After visiting the Alpine Garden, you can take the bus directly back to the mountain gate, or you can get off at a fork in the road and transfer to a local minibus to Wangchi Garden. After visiting Wangchi, you'll need to return the same way, take the minibus, and then transfer to the main bus back to the mountain gate.
Picture @Photo.net
Compared to the other two slopes, this one boasts fewer tourists and a more pristine landscape. It boasts the Yalu River Grand Canyon, volcanic relic carbonized wood, and panoramic views of North Korea across the Yalu River. The southern slope offers expansive views, including a sweeping view of Tianchi Lake. Access is somewhat inconvenient, so it's recommended to charter or share a car from Songjianghe Town. Within the scenic area, a 10-kilometer-long tourist highway runs alongside the Yalu River. The emerald green water meanders, and lush pine trees line the banks, creating a breathtaking scene. North Korean border guards can often be seen waving from just a few meters across the riverbank.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
A trip to chase maple leaves is a once-a-year adventure. The Chinese have long admired maple leaves, and there's no shortage of legendary stories about them. When it comes to maple leaf viewing, many people think of Japan and Canada. But China itself boasts a world-renowned destination for maple viewing—Benxi! Just an hour's drive from Shenyang, Benxi is one of my country's most renowned autumn viewing destinations. With a river flowing through the city and towering mountains surrounding it, its unique geographical advantages and natural resources have earned it the reputation of "China's Maple Leaf Capital." Here, you'll find the lush Benheng Highway, the Guanmen Mountain Red Leaf Valley renowned for its crimson leaves, the nationally renowned Maple King, and the sparsely populated and beautiful Old Biangou...
Every autumn, Benxi's maple leaves turn red. The mountains are blanketed in a blanket of crimson. Leaves in a riot of red, yellow, and green hang from branches or drift along the gullies and streambanks, creating a vibrant, vibrant scene. Benxi boasts a vast array of maple varieties, including 16 species, ranging from three-pointed maple, five-pointed maple, to thirteen-pointed maple. Colors range from apricot, scarlet, blood-red, rose-red, and orange-yellow, and shapes range from heart-shaped, fan-shaped, palm-shaped, to pentagonal, creating a truly unique seasonal botanical spectacle.
Picture @Photo.net
Self-driving, chartered vehicles, or group tours are recommended. Benxi's scenic spots are an average of about 120 kilometers from Shenyang, and there's currently no particularly good public transportation to reach them directly. Independent travel is strongly discouraged! If you need to take public transportation, please refer to the following:
Shenyang ~ Benxi: 30 minutes by high-speed rail, 18 to 25 yuan, there are many trains. If there is a direct train to Benxi from your departure point, you can come directly.
Benxi City ~ Benxi County (Xiaoshi): Bus 11.5 yuan/person, 40 minutes, very frequent buses. There are buses waiting for people at the door after you get out of the train station. Many private car drivers at the exit shout "Xiaoshi, Xiaoshi", so it's best not to get on it.
Xiaoshi to Guanmenshan: Taxi: 40 yuan, 30 minutes
Xiaoshi to Laobiangou: Taxi 130 yuan, 1 hour (includes 10 yuan parking fee at Laobiangou Scenic Area)
Laobiangou to Dashihu: Private car: 60 yuan, 15 minutes
Picture from the Internet
The Guanmen Mountain Scenic Area is named Guanmen Mountain because of its two opposing peaks, one wide, one narrow, one large, one small, shaped like a gate. Some have praised it as "Little Jiangnan" and "rivaling Huangshan." Guanmen Mountain is also known as the "Little Huangshan of Northeast China." It boasts five beauties: beautiful, steep, and graceful peaks rising from the ground. The summits are crowned by graceful pines and grotesquely shaped rocks, seemingly a natural creation, resembling clusters of giant bonsai.
Guanmen Mountain is one of Benxi's most famous maple viewing spots. Designated a National 4A Scenic Area in 2001, it is also one of Liaoning's 50 best scenic spots. It is connected to the Guanmen Mountain Reservoir Scenic Area, where the reservoir's whole fish banquet is a local must-try. Guanmen Mountain boasts numerous ancient trees, well-preserved vegetation, and stunning scenery. The park covers 3,517 hectares, with a forest coverage rate of 95%.
Tour route:
Take the scenic bus to Green Shade Villa (6 km), then walk along the plank road all the way down to the view
Section 1 (highlight section, approximately 1.2 km): Green Shade Villa – Twenty-three Bridges – Landscape Gallery – Maple King
Section 2 (approximately 1.8 km): Maple King – Moon Bay – Love Bridge – Confinement Terrace – Maple Queen – Couple Bridge – Jade Lake Silver Curtain
Section 3 (approximately 3 km): Butterfly Creek – Fushou Shuangbi – Yuelongtan – Wucai Lake – Maple Leaf Viewing Area – Sansheng Stone – Scenic Area Entrance (Huancui Lake)
Picture @Zhufeng
Laobiangou is 65 kilometers away from the county seat, Xiaoshi, and consists of three major scenic areas: Yongge River, Shizhenpo, and Wanxiang Valley. It is a beautiful and rich, ancient and fashionable, magical and colorful paradise on earth.
Benxi is beautiful for its rolling hills, charming for its gurgling waters, and renowned for its vibrant maple foliage, creating a dazzling display of vibrant colors. In spring, mountain blossoms burst into life, creating a vibrant sea of blooms. In autumn, maple forests shimmer like clouds, transforming into a world of crimson leaves. Compared to the renowned Guanmen Mountain, this area is less visited, boasting a fiery maple forest and a vibrant landscape. After enjoying your leisurely visit, head to your hotel. Benxi's small market is renowned for its mutton soup, a popular spot for tourists to explore and dine. Laobiangou is also a renowned photography destination! Enthusiastic photographers can set up their tripods and ND lenses here to enjoy the beauty of slow shutter speed photography.
Adult tickets for Laobiangou can be booked on Meituan/Dianping for 78 RMB per person, with discounts available for students and seniors. The area is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. As the scenic area is quite large, it's recommended to purchase a ticket for an electric car to the lake area and then down. The return journey takes about two hours. The area involves extensive walking, so it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing. There are also limited dining options and convenience stores within the area, so it's recommended to bring your own food.
Picture @Zhufeng
Picture from the Internet
Benxi has a wide variety of maple leaves, ranging from three-pointed maple, five-pointed maple to thirteen-pointed maple, with colors such as apricot red, scarlet, blood red, rose red and orange yellow, and shapes such as heart-shaped, fan-shaped, palm-shaped and pentagonal. It is a rare seasonal plant landscape in the world.
Tianqiaogou is located in the northern part of Kuandian County, Dandong City, approximately 60 kilometers from the county seat. Once the "Dragon's Birthplace" of the Qing Dynasty, this area has remained untouched for centuries. Densely forested with ancient trees and abundant inhabitants, it boasts clear springs and streams, creating a picturesque environment. The unique landscape boasts numerous unusual peaks and rocks of varying shapes, all worth exploring.
In autumn, the mountains are blanketed in maple leaves, making it a perfect spot for viewing and photographing the crimson leaves. Tianqiaogou National Forest Park, home to the famous anti-Japanese hero General Yang Jingyu, fought there. The scenic area boasts stunning peaks, towering rocks, towering ancient trees, and gurgling streams. Its unique, picturesque, and breathtaking scenery has earned it the reputation of "Little Lushan" outside the region.
This park is also a natural botanical and zoological park, boasting over 170 species of woody plants across 50 families, 987 species of herbaceous plants, a dozen species of wildlife including black bears, wild boars, and otters, dozens of bird species including mandarin ducks, and abundant forest frogs and the rare Chinese slender-scaled fish. Located on the northwest edge of Kuandian County, the park covers 40 square kilometers of forest area and 10 square kilometers of forest park.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
The recommended route is to take the shuttle bus to the foot of Lotus Peak on the first day, climb Lotus Peak, and then climb Yuquan Peak and Xiaoyue Peak from the connected trails. After going down the mountain from Xiaoyue Peak, you can take the bus back to the entrance of the scenic area. This day's tour takes about 7 hours.
On the second day, visit the wooden plank road and the Tiangong scenic area respectively, and then leave. If you only have one day, you can consider skipping the second day's itinerary.
Lotus Peak, at over 900 meters above sea level, is the most scenic spot in the scenic area. There's a saying, "If you don't climb Lotus Peak, you've wasted your trip to Tianqiaogou." The mountain's numerous steep cliffs and unusually shaped rocks represent the scenic area's rugged and unique landscape. Attractions such as the "One Line Sky," the "Greeting Pine," and the "Black Bear Cave" each offer unique charm and are not to be missed. Xiaoyue Peak is a must-see in autumn, boasting dense forests filled with maple and birch trees. Every autumn, climbing Xiaoyue Peak offers stunning views of crimson leaves along the way and from the summit. The vibrant crimson leaves here are one of the best places to see them in northern China. The wooden plank road trail, unlike other hiking routes, winds through the lower forest, creating a tranquil and natural atmosphere. Numerous ancient trees of unique shapes await, and gurgling streams flow through the trees, creating a leisurely and relaxing stroll.
Picture from the Internet
In northeastern Heilongjiang Province, there lies a city where the sky is blue and the air is sweet. It's a true forest city nestled in the Lesser Khingan Mountains. Its name is Yichun. Here, rolling hills stretch across vast expanses, forest streams gurgle, birds chirp in the air, and towering trees shade the sky. This is a city where you never want to leave, and long to return. Scenic beauty abounds. When people think of Yichun, the vast forests are the first thing that comes to mind. Every summer, Yichun is a popular destination for summer escapes and wellness tours. Yichun, with its distinct four seasons, can be described as "flowers in spring, the moon in autumn, cool breezes in summer, and snow in winter."
While the mountains of southern China remain lush and green in autumn, the forests of the Lesser Khingan Mountains in Yichun are already vibrant and vibrant. This is autumn in Yichun, the Forest City! Red maples, green pines, and white birch trees vie for attention amidst the forests, creating a vibrant world like an overturned palette.
Picture @Photo.net
We recommend self-driving, chartering a car, or joining a tour group! Public transportation is not recommended! Public transportation is not recommended! Public transportation is not recommended!
Yichun is China's largest forest city, boasting nearly 4 million hectares of vast forest. The city covers an area of 39,017 square kilometers, making it larger than Taiwan Province. The city boasts 702 clear rivers, large and small, and tourist attractions are scattered throughout the city. Traveling 300 to 400 kilometers in a single day is common, but Yichun's attractions are often far apart, with many lacking direct public transportation access.
Wuying National Forest Park, through thousands of years of natural evolution, has formed a top-tier community of mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forests dominated by Korean pine. Here, with distinct seasons, fresh air, tranquil scenery, and a cool climate, everything slows down. Wander along the stream in the natural forest oxygen bar and hand-feed the squirrels. Stroll through the sea of stone forests and experience the unique romance of millennia-old granite peaks. Admire the granite landforms along the way.
Picture @Photo.net
The mountains in autumn are ripe and profound, their crimson red blanketing the hills. The mountains are covered in endless maple groves, their crimson leaves blanketing the earth, a fiery crimson, a breathtaking sight. Within the forest, peaks meet, the forest sea undulates, cliffs jut out, and unusual rocks are formed. Pine and birch trees stand tall, and maple leaves blanket the landscape. This is a unique blend of landforms, forest landscapes, ecological species, Northeastern specialties, and the beauty of water and mountains. Stroll along the Tangwang River and experience the unique romance of the thousand-year-old granite peaks. Admire the granite landforms along the way. The mountains in autumn are ripe and profound, their crimson red blanketing the hills. The mountains are covered in endless maple groves, their crimson leaves blanketing the earth, a fiery crimson, a breathtaking sight.
The forest is full of interconnected peaks, undulating forests, towering cliffs, various strange rocks, standing pine and birch trees, and maple leaves everywhere. It integrates unique landforms, forest landscapes, ecological species, Northeast specialties, and waterscapes and mountain scenery.
Head to Jinshan Deer Park, surrounded by mountains and offering stunning scenery. This semi-open deer farm features hundreds of red and sika deer frolicking by mountain springs and wandering through dense forests. You can buy food to feed the deer or sit under a tree by a stream to admire the clusters of plum blossoms. The scenery is truly comparable to Nara, Japan, and even surpasses it. Staying at Hongguang Forest Farm is like truly living in the forest. The farm has been transformed into a vibrant activity center, offering opportunities for trekking through the forest or chatting with the farm owners. There's virtually no light pollution here, so be sure to look up at night to enjoy the stunning starry sky!
Photo @ China-TravelNote
I finally found the north! Mohe City, located in the Greater Khingan Range region of Heilongjiang Province, China, is the only best place in China to observe the aurora borealis, home to China's "First Outpost in the North," and the northernmost town in China.
In Mohe, you'll encounter another childhood friend: the reindeer, Santa Claus's most trusted assistant. The Evenki, a hunting tribe from the Greater Khingan Range, migrated from the shores of Lake Baikal hundreds of years ago, using reindeer as their primary means of transportation. Visit the Evenki Reindeer Park for a forest stroll, hand-feed the adorable forest elves, and take photos with them. A visit to the Evenki Reindeer Park is a must-see for Santa Claus's special joy!
Photo @ China-TravelNote
How to get to Mohe: We recommend starting in Harbin and taking a 20-hour green train north! Leaving the bustling city behind, you'll journey through vibrant forests. At the end of the train whistle, you'll reach the northernmost tip of the country—Mohe!
How to get to Arctic Village: We recommend driving or joining a tour group! There are only a few daily departures from Mohe to Arctic Village. If you need to take public transportation, please refer to the following information (specific information is based on the bus station and may vary):
There is a bus service available at the Mohe Railway Station entrance. It costs 25 yuan per person one way to the Arctic Village, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours. Visitors get off the bus at the Arctic Village gate, buy their tickets, and then get on the bus to the Arctic Village Bus Station (near the northernmost post office).
Departure time from Mohe: 7:00 10:30 14:00
Departure time from Arctic Village: 8:30 13:30 17:30
Photo @ China-TravelNote
Two-day route recommendation:
D1: Mohe - Arctic Village (full day tour of Arctic Village) Accommodation: Arctic Village
D2: Arctic Village - Longjiang First Bay - Wusuli Shoal - Mohe
Three-day route recommendation:
D1: Mohe - Wusuli Shoal - Longjiang First Bay - Beihong Village Accommodation: Beihong Village
D2: Beihong Village – Birch Forest – Ewenki Reindeer Park – Arctic Village Accommodation: Arctic Village
D3: Arctic Village - May 6th Fire Memorial Hall - Songyuan Park - Mohe
First things first when you visit Arctic Village! Find the North! Head to the Arctic Sand Island, check in at China's North Pole, and gaze across at the stunning natural scenery of Russia. Experience the Chinese Arctic Monument, which reads, "South is the End of the Earth, North is the Chinese Arctic." Arrive at the northernmost outpost and gaze across the river at the Russian village of Ignasiino.
The second thing to do in Arctic Village! Stop by the Arctic Village Post Office, buy a beautiful postcard, write a blessing, and send it to your friends and family from the far north of China. Have the staff stamp it with the stamp of the Northernmost Post Office, and send it home from the northernmost part of China, adding a unique touch of meaning to your trip. I wonder if the recipient will still feel a hint of autumn when holding it in their hands.
Picture @Wenwu
The vast pristine forests of the Greater Khingan Range are a boundless expanse of boundless blue waters, and rolling hills shimmer with verdant beauty. Embedded within this sea of green lies a shining pearl: Arxan National Forest Park. Located at the southwestern foot of the Greater Khingan Range, Arxan National Forest Park was approved by the State Forestry Administration in February 2000 and designated a National 5A Tourist Attraction in February 2017. It is a premier tourism brand cultivated by the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and the core scenic area of the Arxan Tourist Area.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
I highly recommend driving or joining a tour group! Local transportation is not particularly well developed, and many places cannot be reached directly by public transportation, and the time is not particularly convenient. If you want to travel independently, you can refer to the following:
There's a shuttle bus from downtown Arxan to the Forest Park. As soon as you exit Arxan Railway Station, you'll find numerous taxis and private cars soliciting passengers. The fare to the scenic area is around 150 RMB, which is a bit pricey for a solo trip, and safety is a concern. A few hundred meters from the Arxan Bus Station, a bus departs for the scenic area around 7:00 AM and returns to downtown at 4:30 PM, making it a relatively convenient option for travelers who don't drive.
The Arxan Forest Park entrance fee includes a shuttle bus ticket, which is very convenient and covers most attractions, making it a great experience even without a car. The shuttle bus service is very frequent and convenient. Simply hop on the bus with your ticket and head to your desired attraction by following the sign. However, the road conditions within the park are somewhat poor, and cell phone reception is spotty.
Your phone may not have a signal on some roads, so it's recommended to bring a small amount of cash! The food in the scenic area is relatively simple, so it's a good idea to bring some food with you. The food in the scenic area is basically farmhouses and supermarkets, which can meet your basic needs.
Recommended itinerary: Grand Canyon - Tuofengling Tianchi - Dujuan Lake - Tianchi - Accommodation in Tianchi Town - Get up early to watch the sunrise at Wusu Langzi Lake
Picture @Wenwu
Grand Canyon: This is a natural volcanic rock canyon fracture zone. The valley floor is rich in black volcanic rocks, and a stream flows gently through it, mingling with the golden autumn colors of the Arshan forest area. Here, simply follow a plank path through the woods to the canyon bottom, taking photos as you go, and then return the same way. The main attraction is the autumn colors of the volcanic rock canyon and the valleys on both sides. A recommended visit is about one hour.
Tuofengling Tianchi: Tuofengling Tianchi is a core attraction in Arxan. You can spend some time here, with a recommended visit time of about 1.5-2 hours. Follow the wooden plank path up the mountain in about 15 minutes to reach the top and see the Tianchi. There's only one path up the mountain (no backtracking), so just keep going straight and you'll descend. You can also walk down to the lake and back again.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
Dujuan Lake: A volcanic lake within the forested area, with its jagged lava columns jutting outwards, its azure waters reflecting the birch forests surrounding it. The dappled autumn colors resemble a vibrant, richly painted European oil painting. After getting off the car at the parking lot, walk along the wooden boardwalk to the lake's edge, taking photos as you go, and then return the same way. It's recommended to spend about an hour exploring the lake.
Photo @ China-TravelNote
The Kingdom of Grassland! One of the world's four most famous grasslands! Find a place where your heart can be tranquil and your mind can become as clear as crystal. If there's a place you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and the chaos of life, it's Hulunbuir. Hulunbuir Grassland, covering a total area of approximately 100,000 square kilometers (149 million mu), is a world-renowned natural pasture, one of China's top 20 tourist attractions, and known as the world's finest grassland!
Picture @Xiao Che
Photo @ China-TravelNote
In the upper right corner of China's territory stands a prominent protrusion: Manzhouli, a city built on trade. Bordered by Russia to the north and Mongolia to the west, despite its border location, it has become my country's largest land-based trading port. Walking through Manzhouli, you'll feel like you've entered a fairytale world, draped in vibrant colors. This border town, brimming with Russian, Mongolian, and Chinese architectural styles, possesses a unique charm that attracts countless curious travelers.
Picture @Photo.net
Three must-do things in Manzhouli: see the national border, play with nesting dolls, and enjoy the night view!
View the National Gate: 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 CPC National Congress Exhibition Hall, and the remains of Manzhouli's secret red transportation line. Climbing up the National Gate, you can gaze through the glass windows at the Russian border and the Russian town of Zabaikalsk in the distance. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of a cross-border train roaring by.
Picture @Photo.net
Enjoy the night view: The Sino-Soviet Jin Street Pedestrian Street is located in the center of Manzhouli. It can be regarded as one of the landmarks of Manzhouli. In addition to selling various tourist souvenirs and foreign trade clothing, there are also street sculptures of many large hotels, rock singers, accordion players, beer bearers, and people riding camels and playing the horse-head fiddle. Russian shops and beautiful women and handsome men can be seen everywhere on the pedestrian street. It is full of Russian style. Walking on the street gives you a feeling of being in Russia. It can be said to be a shopping street that must be visited in Manzhouli. The pedestrian street is full of Russian atmosphere. You can enjoy the charming fairy-tale night view here at night!
Play with Matryoshka dolls: The Matryoshka Doll Scenic Area is a must-see for any family outing! Located in the heart of Manzhouli, this area is home to Matryoshka hotels and a variety of onion-shaped roofs. This area, centered around the iconic Russian nesting dolls, features entertainment, performances, and dining. The overall design is ingenious, and the architecture is breathtaking. You can watch the Grand Russian Circus, enjoy spectacular performances from Russia and Mongolia, experience thrilling entertainment, and savor Russian cuisine. As night falls and the lights come on, the scenic area shimmers with vibrant colors, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Picture @Traveling Photographer
Heishantou isn't just a mountain!!! Only upon arriving here do you realize it's actually a small town, an ancient city. The highest peak in the ancient city is known locally as Sunset Mountain, the perfect spot for watching the sunset. When the time arrives, the townspeople flock to the mountaintop, quietly sitting atop it, waiting for the sun to set. Watching the distant sky gradually change from a pale pink to a deep crimson, the last rays of sunset slowly disappearing into the horizon, a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere is created.
Standing on the open grassland, the sky is filled with rich colors, and the mountains beyond are painted in a breathtaking beauty. Unable to capture the setting sun, I can only stand there in silent contemplation. Everything feels like something out of a movie: low-pressure clouds, a riot of color, and travelers. Climbing the mountains, watching for a sunrise and sunset, the silent romance is all around us.
What trip to Heishantou is complete without seeing an equestrian show and experiencing a horseback ride? A thrilling horseback riding experience is a must-do in Heishantou. Head to the Heishantou Grassland Ranch, where, under the guidance of a horseman, you'll don a professional knight's hat and ride a majestic steed. Deep within the grasslands, you'll overlook the herds of cattle, horses, and sheep in the wetlands and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. You can also dress in Mongolian attire and take stunning photos on the grasslands.
On the way from Heishantou to Manzhouli, you'll pass by the Barag tribe, where they perform horse dances. The performances are quite engaging and last over an hour, with sessions at 10:30 am and 3:30 pm. The diverse performances feature spectacular horse-roping techniques, with nearly 200 horses galloping forward, and the horse trainers simply catching them with their lassos. The performances aren't always successful; the horses ran past us two or three times, but only one trainer managed to mount them. And he seemed to fall off after a short trot. Considering the horses are running without saddles, stirrups, or reins, and we haven't been familiar with each other beforehand, the difficulty is understandable.
Long ago, the Morigele River basin was a water-scarce grassland. Grass and trees shriveled, livestock languished, and herders suffered immense hardship. One year, a severe drought struck the grasslands, decimating their livestock. Forcing the herders to flee, they fled. Witnessing this, a Mongolian girl named Morigele was overcome with anxiety. She vowed to journey to the mountains of the Greater Khingan Range, searching for the legendary sacred spring, bringing water back to her homeland and alleviating its suffering.
After countless days and nights of arduous journey, Morigele finally reached the lofty Xing'an Mountains. But despite her hardships and trekking through the mountains, she could not find the legendary spring. Exhausted and hopeless, she collapsed on the hillside, never to rise again. The following spring, as the ice and snow melted, a clear spring miraculously gushed out where Morigele had fallen. The spring flowed slowly down the hillside toward her hometown, gathering snow and rainwater along the way and gradually forming a river. The people of her hometown waited and waited, but instead of Morigele's return, they were greeted by the winding spring.
Starting from Hailar City, drive along National Highway G332, then drive deep into the heart of the Hulunbuir Grassland. Stop and go along the way, take photos, and experience the joy of galloping across the grasslands. Climb to a vantage point and overlook the riverside, where herds of cattle and sheep, dotted with tents, resemble a golden autumn painting. When the renowned writer Lao She visited, upon witnessing the beautiful windings of this river, he exclaimed, "This is truly the most winding river in the world." The banks of the Morigele River are lined with pastoral areas where herders graze their livestock. The banks are dotted with yurts, herds of cattle and sheep, and galloping horses, creating a unique landscape.
Hulunbuir: In September and October, the temperature difference between morning and evening is very large. The daytime temperature is about 15 degrees, while the night temperature may drop to around 5 degrees. Therefore, it is recommended to dress warmly and choose the right autumn clothes so that you can feel the warmth in the beautiful scenery.
Liaodong: October in Liaodong is generally cool, neither too hot nor too cold. Wearing a short-sleeved shirt and jeans is sufficient, but mornings and evenings can be chilly, with a significant temperature swing between day and night. Bring a long-sleeved jacket to keep warm. If visiting after mid-October, be sure to bring a sweater or down jacket, as the sea breeze can be quite chilly.
Changbai Mountain: 4-18°C (snow, strong winds, and hail are possible). Autumn and winter clothing and a raincoat are recommended. Lightweight hiking shoes and sportswear are recommended, especially when touring Changbai Mountain. The temperature difference between the upper and lower reaches of the mountain can be significant, so bring a hat and gloves to keep warm.
Arxan: Cold, cold, cold, cold! Arxan is VERY cold!!! If you're visiting Arxan in the fall, be sure to pack some warm clothing, including a down jacket. A three-in-one jacket is recommended. On the coldest days in Arxan, temperatures can drop below zero, and there's even a chance of snow!
Mohe: The temperature in Mohe in September is around 0-15 degrees Celsius. If you go there in October, it is likely to drop below zero. It is recommended to wear autumn and winter clothes!
After introducing so many [Northeast Autumn Scenery], are you ready to go?
