Manzhouli: A Fairytale City on the China-Russia Border That Will Surprise You
Many people assume I've jetted off to a foreign land when they see my photos, but this enchanting city of Manzhouli is right here on the China-Russia border, and it's absolutely breathtaking.
An Enchanting Cityscape
Prepare to be captivated by the unique Russian-style castles and churches that dot the landscape. The entire city seems to be filtered through a delightful, candy-colored lens, conjuring images straight out of a fairytale. If you're planning a trip to Hulunbuir, make sure to carve out a full day for this magical little gem. Every romantic scene you can imagine can be found here.
Must-See Attractions & Photo Ops
The Itinerary: A Fairytale Trail
- The China-Russia Border Gate Scenic Area
- Matryoshka Square
- Little Bear Man
- Wedding Palace
- Mammoth Park
Photography Tips for Your Adventure
The China-Russia Border Gate Scenic Area
It's best to visit in the morning to avoid the afternoon backlight. The Manzhouli National Gate, having undergone five generations of changes, stands majestically, guarding this land, and is well worth the visit.
Matryoshka Square
Home to the iconic Matryoshka Hotel, this place is even larger than it appears. The collection of colorful buildings offers fantastic photo opportunities. You don't necessarily need to enter the scenic area; simply photographing the exterior of Matryoshka Square is enough to capture its charm.
Little Bear Man
Discover this giant pink strawberry bear within Beihu Park. For the most stunning shots, consider using a drone.
Wedding Palace
Avoid visiting in the morning due to backlight. Perched on a small hillside, this lesser-known church offers incredible views. When photographing, don't get too close; use a telephoto lens to capture the entire church for a more dramatic effect. From here, you can overlook the whole of Manzhouli, making it an ideal spot for sunset views.
Mammoth Park
Getting here from the city center by bus is very convenient, followed by a short walk. With its giant onion-domed candy castles, Ferris wheel, and mammoth sculptures, it's incredibly photogenic. While the entrance fee is a bit steep, if your main goal is to photograph the castles, you can park in the outside lot and get great shots without entering the park itself.
My Hulunbuir Journey: A 6-Day Exploration
- Day 1: Arrive in Hailar, explore city sights, and stay in Hailar.
- Day 2: Hailar City to the Morigele River cliffs, then to Ergun Wetland and Ergun.
- Day 3: Ergun to Birch Forest, then to Enhe Russian Ethnic Township and Shiwei.
- Day 4: Shiwei, traverse the 'K' line, enjoy horseback riding and grassland adventures, arriving in Heishantou.
- Day 5: Heishantou, experience the popular grassland miniature train/grass sledding, visit Hulun Lake, and then Manzhouli.
- Day 6: Manzhouli's National Gate, Matryoshka Square, Little Bear Man, Wedding Palace, Mammoth Park, and return journey to Hailar.
Travel Essentials: Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Transportation: The distances between attractions in Hulunbuir are significant, making self-driving highly recommended. You'll be driving hundreds of kilometers daily, but the road conditions are excellent, making it manageable even for beginners.
- Weather: Grassland weather can change rapidly, so be sure to pack rain gear. There's a considerable temperature difference between day and night, so bringing a light jacket is advisable.
- Attire: Opt for solid-colored tops and pack a denim hat, baseball cap, or straw hat for those perfect snapshots.
- Camera Gear: A telephoto lens is a must for the grasslands, as it's excellent for creating a sense of compression. Don't forget your drone; it will unlock entirely different perspectives for your photos.
