Just got back from Arxan, here are my honest feelings and travel tips

This time I traveled freely in the Greater Khingan Range for 11 days. For the northern route, I rented a car and drove myself, and in Arxan, I used public transportation. I spent four days in Arxan, and the timing was perfect for autumn colors, especially at Tuofengling Tianchi, Wusu Langzi Lake, and the Unfrozen River, which were very beautiful. The autumn colors can last until the National Day holiday, so if you want to see the autumn scenery, you can go directly. Here are my itinerary and suggestions:

1. If you drive yourself, you can just visit the free attractions in Arxan such as the Unfrozen River, Wusu Langzi Lake, and Haraha River. The scenery along the way is beautiful enough because among the paid attractions, only Tuofengling Tianchi is the most beautiful;

2. If you take public transportation, it is recommended to buy the scenic area ticket, which includes the entrance and shuttle bus for 280 yuan, valid for 48 hours. There are two routes: Route 1: Tianchi—Sanxia Pool—Dichi; Route 2: Tuofengling Tianchi—Grand Canyon—Azalea Lake—Shitang Forest. Route 1 takes half a day, Route 2 takes a full day, with Tuofengling Tianchi being the most beautiful;

3. Be sure to book accommodation early. It is recommended to stay at the Tianchi Service Area, which is convenient for going anywhere. The transfer center for public transportation and shuttle buses is also here. You can find the phone number on the platform to negotiate a bit on the price. We stayed in a standard room for 350 yuan; it was not very big but the heating was very good;

4. If you want to see the sunrise and morning fog, you can go to Wusu Langzi Lake. It is especially cold in the morning, so dress warmly. Whether you see it depends on luck. When I went, there was heavy fog and I didn’t see it, but I went again later when the fog cleared, and the reflection was also very beautiful. After watching the sunrise and morning fog, on the way back to the Tianchi Service Area, you can visit the Blue House and Haraha River Bridge, the scenery along the way is very beautiful;

5. If you want to see the sunset, you can go to the Unfrozen River viewing platform near the Tianchi Service Area. You can also see the starry sky and the Milky Way here. The WeChat mini program "Tianxing Tong" can check the best time to view the Milky Way that night. In addition, the Unfrozen River next to the accommodation area is also a good place to watch the sunrise;

6. The grilled lamb skewers in front of Tianma Villa at the Tianchi Service Area are especially delicious. I went to eat them three days in a row, 5 yuan per skewer;

7. You can take a bus from Hailar to Arxan. There is only one bus every day at 7:40 AM. Remember to buy tickets two days in advance at the Hailar Bus Station official account because they sell out quickly; or you can carpool for 150 yuan per person;

Post by HarperLncstr | Oct 2, 2025