Unlock the Summer Treasure Code of Heihe

Dear friends, looking for a cool place to escape the summer heat and have a blast? Then you must set your sights on Heihe, this hidden gem of a border town! Located in northern Heilongjiang Province, Heihe is just across the Heilongjiang River from Russia’s Amur Oblast, making it a true "Sino-Russian twin city." The unique experience of stepping into two countries with one foot is easily accessible here. Summer in Heihe is like a gift from the heavens, with an average temperature of only about 22°C. While other places feel like steamers, Heihe is refreshingly cool, making you want to just "lie flat." Plus, there’s so much fun to be had! The Wudalianchi World Geopark, with its 14 volcanic cones and 5 dammed lakes, feels like Earth’s secret treasure, forming a "natural volcanic museum." Strolling through Heilongjiang Park, you can admire Russian-style architecture across the river—every snapshot looks like a scene from abroad. And the centuries-old folk culture, the stories behind the Manchu Eight Bowls, and the unique customs of the Oroqen people are all waiting for you to explore. Must-Visit Local Spots Wudalianchi Scenic Area: A Magical Journey at the Foot of Volcanoes Friends, Wudalianchi is a must-visit! As a national 5A-level scenic spot and a world geopark, it boasts 14 volcanic cones and 5 dammed lakes, truly a "natural volcanic museum." Don’t miss Laoheshan, China’s youngest Quaternary volcano, which erupted between 1719 and 1721. Standing atop the mountain overlooking the crater is an awe-inspiring experience that will make you an instant fan. Hiking the lava plateau, you’ll tread on volcanic rocks shaped by time, almost hearing the heartbeat of the Earth. Then there’s Wenbo, a hidden gem known as the "Volcanic Jiuzhaigou." Rowing on the lake, the colorful waters make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. Don’t forget to soak in the cold mineral springs and experience the magical "fire and ice" healing effect—after a soak, you might just feel "reborn" and full of energy! The combined ticket costs 240 RMB and includes a sightseeing bus, offering great value. Heilongjiang Park: Exotic Charm Just Across the River A stroll along Heilongjiang Park is pure bliss. Across the river, the Russian-style buildings of Blagoveshchensk unfold like an exotic painting. For a closer taste of the border river’s charm, hop on a speedboat and race across the water, with splashes of joy all around. In the evening, street performers sing, dance, and juggle, creating a lively atmosphere. This immersive experience of foreign culture will make you feel like you’re not just traveling but living abroad. Daheihe Island: A Shopper’s Paradise Blended with Border Charm Daheihe Island is a shopper’s paradise! It’s a duty-free shopping zone filled with a dazzling array of Russian goods—from exquisite nesting dolls and delicious chocolates to practical vodka, all guaranteed authentic! Exchange your currency for rubles here and start your shopping spree—you’ll definitely come away with plenty. When you’re tired, relax at a riverside café, enjoy the breeze, and watch the boats go by—it’s incredibly comfortable. Plus, if you have your passport, you can take a 5-minute boat ride to Russia, making this cross-border experience super cool! Foodie Hotspots: A Culinary Carnival in Heihe Russian Cuisine: In Heihe, you must try authentic Russian food. At Delok Western Restaurant, the borscht’s rich flavor will make you feel like a legend in the making, especially paired with rye bread that’s so fragrant you can’t stop eating. The stewed beef at Amur Western Restaurant is also amazing—tender meat with pickled cucumbers to cut the richness, bite after bite, as if you’ve stepped into a Russian street café. With an average cost of about 80 RMB per person, you get a taste of Moscow’s vibe—what more could you want? Northeast Chinese Cuisine: Heihe’s Northeastern dishes are top-notch! Iron pot stew is a must-try—a big pot filled with chicken, duck, fish, radish, potatoes, vermicelli, and cabbage, all simmered together, filling the air with irresistible aromas. Especially when fresh local hazel mushrooms from the forest are added, the flavor skyrockets. There’s also sturgeon stewed with potatoes—the fish is tender, and the potatoes soak up the fish’s freshness, soft and delicious. Paired with a bowl of fragrant rice, it’s simply heavenly. Morning Market Delights: To experience local life, visit the morning market. Russian baked buns at the East Market cost just 5 RMB each. Fresh out of the oven, their crispy crust and oily aroma will make you exclaim "so good!" There are also fresh vegetables, fruits, and local snacks to enjoy as you stroll, soaking up the purest vibe of Heihe. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit Summer from May to September is the best time to visit Heihe. The weather is cool, and the scenery is stunning. In May and June, you can enjoy wildflowers blooming everywhere; July and August are perfect for summer escapes; and September offers beautiful autumn foliage. Each month has its unique charm. Recommended Duration 3 to 5 days is ideal. This allows you to cover the main attractions and leisurely enjoy the city’s slow pace without rushing or missing out. If time is tight, 2 days can give you a rough overview, but you won’t get a deep experience. Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Heihe – Heilongjiang Park – Daheihe Island Arrive in Heihe in the morning, check into your hotel, and drop off your luggage. Head straight to Heilongjiang Park for a riverside stroll, admiring Russian architecture across the river and feeling the breeze. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant serving Northeastern cuisine. In the afternoon, visit Daheihe Island for shopping, picking out your favorite Russian goods. Rest at a café on the island when tired. Enjoy Russian cuisine for dinner nearby, then take a leisurely walk on the island to enjoy the night view. Day 2: Wudalianchi Scenic Area Day Trip Get up early and take a bus to Wudalianchi Scenic Area. Start with Laoheshan, climb to the summit to overlook the crater and admire the spectacular volcanic landscape. Then hike the lava plateau to appreciate nature’s craftsmanship. Have lunch at a restaurant in the park, sampling local mineral spring cuisine. In the afternoon, go to Wenbo and row on the colorful lake. Optionally, visit Beiyao Spring to soak in the cold mineral springs and experience unique healing effects. Return to Heihe city for overnight. Day 3: Aihui Historical Exhibition Hall – Sino-Russian Ethnic Culture Park Visit the Aihui Historical Exhibition Hall in the morning to learn about the dramatic history. The giant bronze sculpture "The Painful Loss of Aihui" is deeply moving. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant serving local farmhouse dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Sino-Russian Ethnic Culture Park, featuring Oroqen traditional tents and Russian wooden houses. Try on Russian costumes for beautiful photos, feeling like you’ve traveled abroad. Return to the city in the evening to explore the night market, tasting grilled cold noodles, Madieer popsicles, and other snacks, experiencing Heihe’s nightlife. Day 4: Free Activities – Departure (If you have a 5-day itinerary, visit Jinhe Grand Canyon and other spots) For a 4-day trip, use this day freely. Shop at city malls or buy local specialties. Or find a riverside spot to relax and enjoy your last leisurely moments. Then pack and prepare to leave. If you have 5 days, visit Jinhe Grand Canyon to admire the 10-km-long gorge. The autumn foliage and winter snow-covered rocks are stunning, each season offering a different charm. Homestay Recommendations: To experience local life, consider staying in a homestay. In Aihui District, many feature Russian-style décor or small courtyards. For example, "Border Charm Homestay" offers cozy rooms and special breakfasts prepared by the host, priced between 200 and 400 RMB, giving you a warm, homey feel. Wudalianchi Scenic Area Wudalianchi Marriott Hot Spring Hotel: Located within the scenic area, its biggest highlight is mineral spring water in the rooms. After a day of sightseeing, soaking in the hot spring right in your room is incredibly relaxing. The hotel environment is beautiful and facilities are complete. Prices are relatively high, around 800 to 1500 RMB per night, but the unique experience is worth it. Local Farmhouses: For a closer connection to nature, farmhouses are a great choice. They are affordable, usually 200 to 400 RMB per night, and serve authentic farmhouse dishes. Many are close to scenic spots, making travel convenient. For example, "Volcano Foot Farmhouse" has a hospitable owner who will share many travel tips. Tips Transportation Flights to Heihe are available from Harbin and Beijing, with a new "Shen-Ha-Hei" route added in summer, making it easy for southern travelers to reach. If driving, it takes about 5.5 hours via the Jihei Expressway, with beautiful scenery along the way. For cross-border travel, passport holders can visit Blagoveshchensk, Russia, visa-free for a day trip, and travel agencies can help with the procedures. Shopping Tips When buying Russian goods, look for stores with a "blue label" to avoid fakes. Also, avoid buying wild products, which are illegal and may harm the environment. Sun Protection and Warmth Although Heihe is cool in summer, UV rays are strong, so don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. At places like Wudalianchi, the temperature difference between morning and evening can be significant, so bring a light jacket to stay warm.