Autumn Family Trip Guide to Arxan: Fewer Crowds, Beautiful Scenery, Super Healing

Autumn in Arxan is perfect for family trips! It's a hidden gem with no crowds, and the stunning autumn scenery rivals Altay. Forests, heavenly lakes, and lakes create a healing picture. Take your kids away from the hustle and bustle and immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of autumn~ 📍 Arxan National Forest Park, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, located at the same latitude as Altay. The autumn scenery is brilliant yet peaceful, making it a top-tier hidden family-friendly autumn destination. Unlock a different kind of autumn travel with your kids. ✅ Family Transportation Options 🚗 Drive about 5-6 hours from Hailar, enjoying the transition from grasslands to forests along the way, with plenty of stops to explore with kids. ✈️ Yiershi Airport is about 17 km from Arxan. After landing, take a taxi or rent a car; the drive takes about 20 minutes, convenient and worry-free. 🚉 Trains arrive at Arxan Railway Station from Hailar, Ulanhot, Baicheng, Changchun, and other stations. The vintage train station is great for kids to take photos and experience slow travel. 🎫 Ticket Details Arxan National Forest Park tickets cost 285 RMB per person (including 180 RMB entrance fee + 105 RMB shuttle bus fee), valid for 2 days. Children under 1.2 meters enter free; children 1.2-1.4 meters pay half price. It is recommended to book online one day in advance to avoid queues. ⏰ Operating Hours Reference - No strict time limits for self-driving into the park, allowing flexible itinerary adjustments with kids. - Park shuttle buses operate from 7:30 to 18:00. Families can choose the shuttle bus to avoid worrying about routes. ✅ 7 Paid Attractions + Free Attractions (Family-Friendly) 🚌 Park Shuttle Bus Family Route 1 (Easy Version) Santang Gorge - Dichi - Arxan Heavenly Lake, short distance with few steps, suitable for younger kids. 🚌 Park Shuttle Bus Family Route 2 (Essence Version) Tuofengling Heavenly Lake - Grand Canyon - Shitang Forest - Rhododendron Lake, highlights with stunning scenery, suitable for older children. First shuttle times at service areas: Jinjianggou Gate 8:00; Heavenly Lake 8:30; Xing'an 9:00. For families, early buses are recommended to avoid crowds. 📍 Must-Visit Family Attractions - Budong River (Free): Near the Heavenly Lake service area, excellent sunrise and sunset views. The river never freezes year-round. Kids can observe unique landforms and take great photos. Staying nearby is recommended. - Tuofengling Heavenly Lake: A 20-30 minute climb up steps (no backtracking). The mountaintop offers a broad view, and the lake has a unique shape. Let kids experience nature’s wonders; bring binoculars to observe distant scenery. - Santang Gorge: Walk along the Halahar River without backtracking. The water is clear, and kids can play in the water (safety first). Along the way, enjoy the different views of Yuexin Pool, Tiger Stone Pool, and Reclining Ox Pool, making it fun and engaging. - Rhododendron Lake: The lake surface is calm like a mirror, reflecting autumn trees and blue sky with white clouds. Walk with kids by the lake to feel the peaceful atmosphere. Occasionally, waterfowl rest here, helping kids learn about different bird species. - Grand Canyon: Unique landforms, no backtracking. Take kids to look for small animals like pikas and learn about canyon formation, experiencing the power of nature. - Arxan Heavenly Lake: More steps involved; kids should go at their own pace. From the top, enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and teach kids about volcanic crater lakes. - Shitang Forest: Volcanic rocks covered with moss, resembling a primeval forest. Introduce kids to volcanic rocks and unique plants for natural science education. ✅ Free Hidden Gems Wusulangzi Lake, Guibei Rock, Xianhe Lake, Luming Lake, and the popular Blue House. These spots have fewer people and beautiful scenery, perfect for casual photos with kids and avoiding crowds. Family Accommodation Guide Recommended stay at Arxan Forest Hot Spring Hotel, located near the park. It features a wild luxury style with hot spring facilities. After a day of family fun, relax in the hot springs. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with family room options and beautiful autumn scenery nearby.