Morning Mist, Birch Trees, and the Genhe River

Erguna National Wetland is one of China's largest and best-preserved wetlands in its original ecological state, located in Erguna City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Below is the latest 2025 travel guide, covering key information such as transportation, tickets, best visiting times, recommended routes, and important notes: --- **1. Basic Information** - **Address**: Northwest suburbs of Labudalin Street, Erguna City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. - **Opening Hours**: 08:30–18:00 (last entry at 17:00). - **Recommended Visit Duration**: 0.5–1 day. - **Best Season to Visit**: June to September (lush greenery in summer, vibrant colors in autumn). --- **2. Ticket Information (2025 Latest Policy)** - **Peak Season (May 16–October 15)**: ¥65/person. - **Off-Season (October 16–May 15)**: ¥20/person. - **Half-Price Discounts**: Military personnel, disabled visitors, seniors aged 65–69 (with valid ID). - **Free Admission**: - Children under 1.2m, seniors aged 70+. - Children under 6, seniors aged 60+, disabled visitors, low-income households (new policy in 2025). - Local residents of Erguna City (with ID). - **Scenic Area Shuttle**: Round-trip ¥15 (optional). --- **3. Transportation** - **From Hailar**: - Take a bus to Erguna City (Labudalin Bus Station), then transfer to Bus No. 2 (limited schedule; taxis are recommended). - Self-drive or charter a car (7-seater van recommended, approx. ¥500/day including fuel). - **Self-Driving Route**: National Highway G332 (prone to traffic jams in peak season; detour via northern pastoral roads is possible). --- **4. Recommended Itinerary** 1. **Observation Deck**: Climb the 720m main peak for a panoramic view of the wetland and the winding Genhe River resembling a silver ribbon. 2. **Wetland Museum**: Learn about wetland ecology—great for family activities. 3. **Birch Forest Boardwalk**: Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for misty golden-hour photography. 4. **Hiking Adventure**: Explore the wetland interior to observe migratory birds (e.g., red-crowned cranes, swans). 5. **Night Activities (July–September)**: Bonfire party + fireworks at Oloqy Manor (¥29.9/person). --- **5. Unique Experiences** - **Photography**: Morning mist, S-shaped rivers, autumn birch forests, and red foliage. - **Local Cuisine**: - Mongolian milk tea + roasted millet (must-try). - Hand-grabbed mutton, Buryat-style buns (Stall No. 3, 2nd floor, Erguna Farmers' Market). - **Accommodation**: - Stargazing yurts (¥200–400/night; recommended: Hasar Tribe). - Russian-style wooden cabins (in Enhe or Shiwei). --- **6. Important Notes** - **Weather**: Large temperature swings in July–August (daytime 25°C, nighttime 10°C); pack a light down jacket. - **Bug & Sun Protection**: Grassland mosquitoes are aggressive; wear long sleeves and use repellent. - **Eco-Friendly**: No littering or disturbing wildlife. - **Border Regulations**: Drones prohibited; carry ID at all times. --- **7. Recommended Itinerary (Combining Nearby Attractions)** - **Day 1**: Hailar → Morin Dawa River → Erguna Wetland → Stay in Erguna. - **Day 2**: Birch Forest → Enhe Russian Ethnic Village → Reindeer Park → Shiwei. - **Day 3**: Horseback riding in Heishantou → 186 Colorful Ribbon River → Manzhouli night views. --- Erguna Wetland is the highlight of any Hulunbuir grassland journey, offering both breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Advance planning is advised, especially for peak-season accommodations and chartered vehicles.