Between Wind and Meadow

Here is a classic 5-day in-depth itinerary for the Hulunbuir Grassland in 2025, combining natural scenery, ethnic culture, and border charm, perfect for summer travel (July-August):

**Day 1: Hailar → Manzhouli (approx. 200KM)**
- **Morning**: Depart from Hailar and drive along the Suiman Expressway through pastoral grasslands.
- **Afternoon**: Arrive in Manzhouli and visit the **Manzhouli National Gate Scenic Area** (timed entry required), then ascend the observation tower for panoramic views of China, Russia, and Mongolia.
- **Evening**: Explore the **Matryoshka Doll Square** (don’t miss the 19:00 3D show *"Silk Road Illusion"*). Stay overnight at Manzhouli Hotel and shop for Russian amber on Sino-Soviet Gold Street.

**Day 2: Manzhouli → Erguna (approx. 150KM)**
- **Morning**: Photograph the **Erka Wetland International Boundary Monument**, then drive along County Road 904, where wild peony fields bloom in summer.
- **Afternoon**: Arrive at **Erguna National Wetland Park** and experience the newly opened **Birch Forest Skywalk** (620m elevation). From July to August, you can apply in advance for forest mushroom-picking.
- **Accommodation**: Stay in a traditional Russian-style wooden house in Enhe Russian Ethnic Village and try making Russian bread.

**Day 3: Heart of the Morigele River Grassland (approx. 80KM)**
- **Morning**: Venture deep into the **Morigele River** to photograph its iconic "No. 1 Meandering River" with nine bends.
- **Afternoon**: Visit a local herder’s home (recommended: Chaolutu Gacha) to experience milk tea brewing and Mongolian yurt-building.
- **Dusk**: Head to **Duan Ya (Cliff)** for sunset photography (mosquito-proof face masks available for rent).
- **Overnight**: Stay at a grassland stargazing camp, with telescope reservations available from the 25th to the 3rd of the lunar month.

**Day 4: Shiwei → Heishantou (approx. 120KM)**
- **Morning**: Visit **Shiwei Port** and take an eco-friendly fuel boat tour along the border river (operating hours: 8:30-17:00).
- **Afternoon**: Drive along the Border Defense Highway, passing **Qika** and **Wuka**, to admire the Tai Chi-like curves of the Erguna River.
- **Evening**: Arrive in **Heishantou** for horseback riding and a bonfire party. Stay overnight in a Mongolian yurt.

**Day 5: Heishantou → Hailar (approx. 180KM)**
- **Morning**: Visit **186 Colorful Ribbon River** for grass sliding or take a boat tour on **Hulun Lake** for birdwatching.
- **Afternoon**: Return to Hailar and explore the **Ewenki Museum** (free guided tours at 9:30/14:30). Shop for souvenirs like dried beef jerky.

**Cost Reference**
- **Group Tour**: ¥1,500-2,000 per person (includes accommodation, transport, tickets, and some meals).
- **Self-Drive/Charter**: A 4WD SUV is recommended. Note: The north bank of the Morigele River will be one-way from July.

**Tips**
- **Best Time to Visit**: July 10–August 25, 2025. Some grazing areas may restrict access from September.
- **Avoid Scams**: Confirm horseback riding prices in advance, skip overpriced restaurants near attractions, and opt for authentic herder experiences.