Volcanic springs, forest lakes, Inner Mongolia Arxan 2-day travel guide.

Arxan two-day in-depth travel guide: A magical journey through volcanic hot springs and forests

Trip Highlights
1. Volcanic geological wonders: Asia's largest volcanic lava landform, explore Tianchi Lake and Shitang Forest
2. Pristine forest oxygen bar: Deep in the Greater Khingan Range, stroll through birch forests and larch pine seas
3. Hot spring healing experience: China's only radioactive radon hot spring to wash away fatigue

Hidden gems: Avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of grasslands and lakes

Transportation Guide
Arrival:
Flight: Direct flights from Beijing/Harbin to Arxan Yiershi Airport (1-2 flights daily in peak season), 30-minute taxi to downtown.
Train: Take train from Shenyang/Wulanhaote to Arxan Station (special tourist trains added in peak season), station is right in the city.
Local transport: Recommended to rent a car (about 500 RMB/day) or self-drive, attractions are scattered and public transport is limited.
Accommodation Recommendations
City hotels: Budget hotels on Arxan Hot Spring Road (200-300 RMB per person), close to night market food street.
Special experience: Recommended stay at Arxan Hot Spring Museum Hotel (400 RMB+ per person), includes hot spring tickets, soak in private baths under the starry sky.

Two-day itinerary
Day 1: Volcanic geological exploration + forest hiking
Morning: Arxan National Forest Park (275 RMB/2-day ticket)
Tuofengling Tianchi Lake: Climb 998 steps to overlook the volcanic crater lake, water like sapphire set in the forest (must visit!).
Shitang Forest: Walk through Asia's largest recent extinct volcanic basalt landform, see lava cracks, moss, and dwarf birch coexistence.
Noon: Simple meal in the scenic area (bring your own food or eat at Tianchi service area, about 40 RMB per person).
Afternoon: Forest immersion experience
Azalea Lake: Walk along the lakeside boardwalk, azalea sea in spring (golden larch leaves in autumn are even more stunning).
Santang Gorge: Walk through the canyon boardwalk, listen to the rushing Haraha River, enjoy the "lake, waterfall, gorge" scenery.
Evening: Return to city, soak in hot springs to relax (Hot Spring Museum ticket 198 RMB, includes indoor and outdoor pools).

Day 2: Grassland lakes + hot spring healing
Morning: Wusu Langzi Lake
"The Little South of the Greater Khingan" in morning mist, watch migratory birds fly, capture sunrise photos by the lake (free).
Noon: Mongolian feast
Recommended: Iron pot stewed lamb ribs (80 RMB per person), stir-fried wild vegetables with eggs, wild blueberry juice.
Afternoon: Wuli Spring + Museum
Wuli Spring: Fill a cup of natural cold mineral water (rich in trace elements, free!), feel the purity of the "holy water".
Hot Spring Museum: Learn about volcanic hot spring formation, experience 48°C radon hot spring bath (relieves joint fatigue).
Return: Evening flight/train departure, take volcanic stone souvenirs (city specialty shops 10-30 RMB per piece).

Must-try foods
Hearty dishes: Hand-pulled meat, roasted lamb leg, Buryat steamed buns (juicy explosion!)
Mountain delicacies: Wild hazel mushroom stewed chicken, bracken, daylily
Drinks: Arxan mineral water, blueberry juice, mare’s milk wine

Travel Tips
Climate: Summer average 15-20°C, large temperature difference between day and night, bring windbreaker + sunscreen.
Self-driving: Speed limit 30 km/h in scenic areas, watch out for wildlife (deer, roe deer often appear).
Best season: June to August for summer cool, September for autumn foliage (golden larch and birch forests).
Money-saving tips: Buy forest park tickets online 1 day in advance (20 RMB cheaper than on-site), half price for students/seniors with ID.

Summary: Arxan two-day tour condenses the four wonders of volcano, forest, hot spring, and lake in the shortest time! Average cost about 800 RMB per person (including transport and accommodation), escape the hustle and bustle, embrace the purity and wildness of northern Xinjiang. Pack your bags and embark on a soulful journey with nature!