Arxan Autumn Fairy Tale

Introduction to Arxan
Arxan is located in the northwest of Xing'an League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, situated in the middle section of the Greater Khingan Mountains. Its full name is "Harun Arxan," which means "warm and sacred spring" in Mongolian. This area combines volcanic relics, forests, hot springs, and grasslands, making it a national 5A-level tourist attraction. It has been honored as a "National Ecotourism Demonstration Zone" and a "National Forest Tourism Demonstration Zone." Covering a total area of 7,408.7 square kilometers, it features a cold temperate continental monsoon climate, suitable for travel all year round, especially in autumn (late September to early October) when the forests are ablaze with color, earning it the title of "China's earliest autumn."

Recommended Attractions
1. Arxan National Forest Park
Address: Arxan City, Xing'an League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region
Opening Hours: Open all day
Average Cost: 180 RMB during peak season
Why Visit: The core scenic area featuring iconic spots such as Tianchi Lake, Tuofengling Tianchi Lake, Rhododendron Lake, and Shitang Forest. Tuofengling Tianchi Lake is like a "mirror of the sky," reflecting the golden forest sea; Rhododendron Lake is carpeted with golden leaves in autumn, and Shitang Forest combines volcanic relics with colorful forests, creating a "geological painting."

2. Bailang Peak
Address: Bailang Town, Arxan City
Why Visit: A secret spot for self-driving tours, with vast birch forests along the way. From the summit, you can overlook the junction of the forest sea and grassland. In the evening, sunlight filtering through the tree trunks creates a strong atmosphere. You can also visit the filming location of "Dear Inn" at Deer Village and interact with reindeer.

3. Budong River
Address: Inside Arxan National Forest Park
Why Visit: Does not freeze in late autumn, with mist rising from the river surface and larch trees reflected in the water, resembling a fairyland. It is best to visit early in the morning when the morning mist lingers.

4. Arxan Railway Station
Address: Wenquan Street, Arxan City
Why Visit: A Japanese-style retro building and a century-old landmark. The wooden roof and green window frames, combined with the slanting sunlight at 3 PM, create a vintage filter effect for photos.

5. Wuli Spring
Why Visit: Known as the "world's most unique large spring," its water is rich in minerals and safe to drink directly. There are free water collection points nearby, making it a must-visit "natural mineral water supply station" for tourists.

6. Rose Peak
Why Visit: A granite peak forest landform named for its reddish-brown color in autumn. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Haraha River and grasslands, making it an excellent spot for sunrise and sunset.

7. Orunbukan Scenic Area
Why Visit: A prime hiking destination in the primeval forest where you can experience the hunting culture of the Oroqen people and participate in folk activities such as hand-cooked meat, immersing yourself in ethnic minority customs.

Must-Experience Activities
Hot Spring Wellness: Arxan has abundant volcanic hot spring resources. The Haishen Hot Spring Pavilion in the city offers great value, with outdoor pools facing birch forests, allowing you to soak while enjoying autumn scenery.

Intangible Cultural Heritage Bonfire Night: After nightfall, join the float parade and the live performance "Tianyun Arxan" to experience the passionate folk customs of northern Xinjiang.

Self-Driving Tour: Recommended loop route "Forest Pasture – Bailang – Arxan National Forest Park" to fully enjoy the scenery where volcanic relics and golden autumn forests intertwine.

Post by Lucas Miller Lucas`53 | Oct 18, 2025

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