Complete Guide to Hulunbuir | All You Need to Know

Want to experience the serenity of grasslands where cattle and sheep roam freely? Want to try horseback riding and archery? Then come to Hulunbuir! Here you'll find vast grasslands, the winding Morgen River, and the hospitable Mongolian people. This guide covers pre-trip preparation, attractions, food recommendations, accommodation suggestions, and travel routes to help you explore Hulunbuir! 🏞Must-Visit Attractions 1. Morgen River: Known as the "World's Most Winding River" in Lao She's writings, the river meanders through the grasslands like a floating silk ribbon - perfect for aerial photography! 2. Erguna Wetland: Asia's largest wetland, featuring gentle terrain and the winding Genhe River, creating a magnificent wetland landscape. In autumn, the wetland turns golden, leaving visitors speechless. 3. Birch Forest: White tree trunks and golden leaves create a fairy-tale setting. Rent traditional Russian costumes for photos to enhance the atmosphere. 4. Manzhouli Matryoshka Square: Full of exotic charm, the colorful matryoshka doll buildings transport you to a fairy-tale kingdom, especially beautiful when lit up at night. 5. Heishantou: A paradise for horse riding enthusiasts where you can gallop across the grasslands and watch stunning sunsets. At night, stargaze from your yurt for a romantic experience. 🍱Food Recommendations 1. Hand-pulled Meat: Authentic Mongolian cuisine featuring tender lamb served with chive flower sauce and minced garlic - absolutely satisfying. 2. Whole Roasted Lamb: A traditional Mongolian delicacy for honored guests, featuring crispy skin and juicy meat. Advance booking required. 3. Russian Bread: Crispy outside, soft inside, with rich wheat fragrance. Delicious with blueberry jam or butter. 4. Milk Tea: Traditional Mongolian beverage made with brick tea and fresh cow's or sheep's milk, enriched with butter and fried rice - warming and delicious. 5. Hot Pot Lamb: Hulunbuir's premium lamb is tender without gamey taste. Simply dip in a hot copper pot and enjoy with sesame sauce - heavenly! 🏠Accommodation Tips 1. Hailar: As Hulunbuir's transport hub, offers diverse accommodation. Recommended to stay downtown for convenient dining and transportation. 2. Manzhouli: Try the unique matryoshka-themed hotels for a whimsical experience (though pricier) or choose downtown hotels for better value. 3. Heishantou: Must experience staying in a yurt on the grasslands, with evening bonfire parties adding to the excitement. 4. Erguna: Stay in traditional Russian wooden houses (Mukeleng) for a cozy experience of Russian architectural tradition. 🚗Travel Routes Day1: Hailar - Morgen River - Erguna Wetland - Erguna (overnight) Day2: Erguna - Birch Forest - Enhe Russian Ethnic Village - Shiwei (overnight) Day3: Shiwei - China-Russia Border Road - 186 Colored Ribbon River - Heishantou (overnight, sunset viewing) Day4: Heishantou - Horseback riding across grasslands - Manzhouli (overnight, night views) Day5: Manzhouli - Matryoshka Square - National Gate - Hulun Lake - Hailar (end of journey) 📌Travel Tips 1. Large temperature differences between day and night - bring warm clothes like windbreakers and down jackets. 2. Many mosquitoes in summer - bring repellents like anti-mosquito wristbands and Florida water. 3. Avoid strenuous activity when first arriving on the grasslands to prevent altitude sickness. 4. Follow instructor guidance when horse riding, mind safety, and avoid standing behind horses. 5. Plan itinerary and book accommodation in advance as rooms are scarce during peak season. 💕The beauty of Hulunbuir can only be truly appreciated in person. Pack your bags and embark on a spontaneous grassland adventure! Feel free to leave comments if you have any questions!