Written by Veronica |
Hulunbuir Grassland (or Hulunbuir Prairie) in the northeast of Inner Mongolia, is one of the four largest grasslands in the world and the largest in China. It is known as “the Grass Kingdom” because of its rich biodiversity. Hulunbuir Grassland is also the best-preserved grassland in China, so it is called “the Purest Prairie” as well. Its many titles should tell you how well-regarded and impressive it is.
If you’ve never visited a grassland before, you should definitely travel to Hulunbuir in Inner Mongolia. Hulunbuir Grassland is your top choice for seeing the boundless prairie, experiencing nomadic lifestyle, and learning about local culture and Genghis Khan history.
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- Fast Facts about Hulunbuir Grassland
- Why Visit Hulunbuir Grassland?
- Overview and Legend of Hulunbuir Grassland
- What to See on Hulunbuir Grassland
- What to Do on Hulunbuir Grassland
- Festivals on Hulunbuir Grassland
- Best Time to Visit Hulunbuir Grassland
- How to Get to Hulunbuir Grassland
- How to Travel between Main Sites on Hulunbuir Grassland
- Where to Stay on Hulunbuir Grassland
- How to Plan a Hulunbuir Grassland Tour
- Essential Travel Tips
- Attractions nearby Hulunbuir Grassland
- FAQs about Hulunbuir Grassland
- Adventure to Hulunbuir Grassland with China Xian Tour
Fast Facts about Hulunbuir Grassland
- Location: Hulunbuir city, Inner Mongolia, China
- Hours: all day
- Ticket price: the grassland is free for visit, but some activities may cost a fee
- Recommended visit time: 2 or 3 days
- Best time of the year: June to August
- Suited to: nature lovers, photographers, anyone wishes to experience Inner Mongolia culture
Why Visit Hulunbuir Grassland?
- Huge stretches and a charming setting: One of the four largest grasslads in the world, and the most exquisite and pristine grassland in China. Roughly equal to 16 times of Beijing’s size.
- Rich rivers and lakes: Home to over 3,000 meandering rivers and rich lakes, including the famous Hulun Lake, Buir Lake, and Morigele River.
- Mongolian cultural experience: Formerly the birthplace of northern nomadic tribes. Provides genuine hunting and nomadic customs. Here you can live like a herder for a day, and experience authentic Mongolian culture.
Overview and Legend of Hulunbuir Grassland
So how big exactly is Hulunbuir Grassland? It has an area of over 43,500 square miles (11,266,700 hectares), that is six times as large as Beijing! The area consists 80% of natural grassland and over 3,000 rivers and 500 lakes.
Hulunbuir is named after two lakes in this region, Hulun Lake and Buir Lake. Both “Hulun” and “Buir” refer to otters in Mongolian, because the two lakes are home to a large population of otters. Other than that, there also a beautiful legend behind the name of Hulunbuir.
Legend goes that there was once a Mongolian tribe living in peace on the grassland. In it, there’s a couple, Hulun and Buir. The girl, Hulun, is beautiful, has a talent for singing and dancing. And Buir is an excellent solider, incredibly strong and skilled in riding on horseback and archery.
One day, a demon showed up and destroyed the beautiful grassland, all the plants and animals, rivers and lakes. To save their tribe, the couple stood bravely against the demon. Hulun transformed into a lake to drown the demon and his army. When Buir came and couldn’t find her anywhere by the lake, he dove in. All of a sudden, the earth started shaking. Another lake was formed.
What to See on Hulunbuir Grassland
1. Vast Natural Grassland
Take in the beautiful scenery of the boundless Hulunbuir Grassland. Imagine yourself under a clear blue sky, on the fresh green grass, amongst summer wildflowers. You’ll see cattle and sheep wondering wandering about. It is truly a paradise on earth. If you’re in the mood for some grassland activities, you can take a horseback ride or try the exciting grass slides.
2. Lake Hulun and Buir
Hulun Lake is the largest lake in Inner Mongolia and one of the largest freshwater lakes in China. Most of Buir Lake is located in Mongolia. The lakes are a perfect spot for boating and fishing. The surrounding area is also great for a family picnic and a quiet walk by yourself or with your loved ones.
Hulun lake is not very far from Manzhouli, where Mongolia, China and Russia meet. So it’s a good idea to visit Manzhouli while you’re there to see how three different cultures come together in one place.
3. Heishantou
Heishantou is a quiet small town at the foot of a mountain on the grassland. It is known for its gorgeous sunset and night sky. Around dusk, you can hike or ride a horse up the hill to see the orange sun set on the horizon where Russia and China meet.
4. Morigele River (莫尔格勒河)
Twisting and turning like a jade dragon across the grasslands, the Morigele River meaders over 300 kilometers from the Greater Khingan Mountains to Hulun Lake and the Hailar River. Though its length, it is not particularly wide, stretching a mere five to six meters at its broadest. Its winding path forms epic meanderings, which is the top highlight of the river.
The river is flanked by adorable yurts, fluffy sheep and cattle herds, and lush pastures, creating a perfect pastoral scene.
5. Golden Mongolian Tribe
Golden Mongolian Tribe (金帐汗蒙古部落) is located on the banks of the Morigele River—China’s “Best Meandering River”. Once a haunt of Genghis Khan and home to northern tribes for centuries, it has now become Hulunbuir’s only nomadic culture-focused tourist attraction which successfully blends history with modern tourism.
Known as the “Hollywood on the Prairie,” it hosted over 30 TV dramas, and this makes it a famous go-to filming spot. Here, visitors can enjoy bonfire parties, horse racing, Mongolian wrestling, and savoring shouparou (grilled lamb) in yurts, immersing in authentic grassland life.
Note: Due to maintenance, the tribe is temporarily closed (since 2021). For reopening updates or real-time info, feel free to contact us.
6. Hongjila Tribe
The Hongjila Tribe (弘吉剌部), celebrated as the “Tribe of Beauties” (translated from its name), stands out in Mongolian history as a symbol of elegance, intelligence, and noble heritage. Renowned for producing some of the most admired women of their time, including Genghis Khan’s wife and mother, Mongol chieftains and princes would all pride themselves on marrying women coming from Hongjila Tribe.
Today, it thrives as Inner Mongolia’s largest cluster of traditional Mongolian yurts, surrounded by lush grasslands and wetlands. Visitors coming here can wander through rows of handwoven yurts, soak in golden sunsets, and glimpse nomadic life, taking it as an impressive window into Mongolia’s cultural heart.
What to Do on Hulunbuir Grassland
1. Enjoy a Warm Welcome Ceremony
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with a traditional Mongolian welcome ceremony. You’ll be presented with a colorful hadag (blue scarves). And sometimes there would also be locals singing and performing folk dances as part of the welcome ceremony, which embodies the grassland’s spirit of hospitality.
2. Experience Unique Mongolian Festivals
The most exciting time to visit Hulunbuir Grassland is definitely during the Naadam Festival. It is one of the most iconic grassland festivals. This event truly reflects the grassland’s spirit and Mongolian heritage, and it is held during the peak of grassland vitality every year (11th – 13th July). You’ll see the famous “three games of men,” horse racing, wrestling, archery, as well as traditional singing and dancing.
It is the biggest event in Mongolian culture. Locals would dress in their best festive attire, traveling by horse, car, or wooden cart to join the races, with material fairs boosting local production and evening cultural shows adding to another layer of fun.
Another representative festival is the Aobao Festival. It is also a time-honored Mongolian tradition held in July or August to honor mountain deities and pray for the prosperity of the people. Locals dress in traditional attire, singing and dancing as they circle aobao (stone cairns) adorned with offerings like food, alcohol, and scarves. Both events offer visitors a front-row seat to grassland life.
3. Enjoy a Bonfire Party At Night
Don’t miss a bonfire party at night when you are traveling to Hulunbuir. As an essential part of the grassland experience, the joy of the bonfire party will leave you with an unforgettable memory. As night falls, people will get together at the gathering point. When there are enough participants, the bonfire will be lit. Then, you can join locals to sing, dance, savor freshly roasted meat, enjoy drinks, and immerse yourself in the spirit of relaxation and celebration.
Bonfire parties are available at most popular grassland tourist spots, such as the Golden Mongolian Tribe, Hongjila Tribe, and Barhu Mongolian Tribe.
4. Stay Overnight at a Mongolia Yurt
A Hulunbuir Grassland tour is not complete without experiencing the nomadic lifestyle. If time permits, spend a night or two in a traditional Mongolian yurt, this allows you to immerse yourself in the authentic nomadic lifestyle.
These traditional accommodations have everything you need. The portable, circular tents are designed to withstand the unpredictable grassland climate while offering cozy interiors to people. You’ll probably see a lot of ethnic-style decorations like carpets and wooden furnishings which are all colorfully designed. Simply step out of your room, you’ll see the endless grassland and the clear night sky around you.
5. Try Horse Racing, Wrestling, Archery
Experience the thrill of Mongolia’s “Three Manly Games” (horse racing, wrestling, and archery), which are deeply rooted in nomadic traditions. During the Naadam Festival, these sports will take center stage, but if you can’t make it to Naadam Festival, many grassland resorts and cultural villages also offer year-round opportunities for visitors to have a try. Test your archery skills with a traditional bow, watch skilled wrestlers compete in vibrant costumes, or ride a Mongolian horse across the plains—a must for adventure seekers!
6. Admire the Sunset & Sunrise
You’ll probably see the most unforgettable sunrise and sunset in your life under Hulunbuir’s vast, open skies. Plan your way to Heishantou (Black Mountain) for panoramic vistas of the golden sun dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the grasslands. At dawn, watch the prairie awaken as sunlight bathes the rolling hills in soft hues, though doesn’t dazzle your eyes, it would bring out your tears. Don’t forget your camera, these moments are the best show of nature’s magic, definitely worth a picture!
7. Try Delicious Mongolia Food
While you’re at Hulunbuir Grassland, indulging in authentic Mongolian cuisine is also an experience you can’t miss. Because the environment here is so well-preserved, produce like meat, milk, leather, wool are of excellent quality. Every dish reflects part of nomadic life. Savor the Mongolian shouparou (手把肉)—tender stewed lamb from grassland sheep, seasoned only with salt and herbs, paired with crisp veggies and sour milk tea (a salty, fermented brew).
For a more festive occasion, boodog (烤全羊) shines: a whole lamb roasted over fire until its crust turns golden and inside stays juicy. And it is even better to use these meals with milk treats such as kumys (tangy fermented mare’s milk) and byaslag (chewy dried milk curd), capturing pastoral flavors. Mongolian barbeque, milk tea, cheese and shaomai are also must-try characteristic local delicacies.
Festivals on Hulunbuir Grassland
Festivals on Hulunbuir Grassland are all vibrant celebrations of nomadic culture. And they are times when you’ll see ancient traditions come alive in the vast, golden landscapes. Whether honoring nature or showcasing personal skills, these events offer visitors a front-row seat to grassland life.
Aobao Festival
Held in July or August, the Aobao Festival is a time-honored Mongolian tradition to honor mountain deities and pray for prosperity of people. Locals dress in traditional attire, singing and dancing as they circle aobao (stone cairns) adorned with offerings like food, alcohol, and scarves.
Nadaam Festival
Nadaam festival is one of the most iconic grassland festivals that you cannot miss in your journey. Meaning “entertainment” or “games” in Mongolian, this event is deeply rooted in Mongolian tradition, and it is held during the peak of grassland vitality every year (11th – 13th July).
It highlights time-honored “three manly skills”: horse racing, wrestling, and archery, alongside modern additions like polo, equestrian shows, and cultural performances. Locals would dress in their best festive attire, traveling by horse, car, or wooden cart to join the races, with material fairs boosting local production and evening cultural shows adding to another layer of fun. Nadaam is truly a festival reflects the grassland’s spirit and Mongolian heritage.
How to Get to Hulunbuir Grassland
By Air: Hailar Dongshan International Airport is the nearest airport to Hulunbuir Grassland. There are regular flights from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Harbin. The airport is about a 2.5-hour drive from the grassland.
By Train: You can also take a train and see the countryside along the way, but it can be very time-consuming. There is no high-speed train station nearby. A train from Beijing can take more than 30 hours.
By Car: When you’re in Hailar, you can get to Hulunbuir Grassland by car or bus. Renting a car or hiring a private driver is the easiest way. You can also book for a local guided tour.
How to Travel between Main Sites on Hulunbuir Grassland
The area of Hulunbuir Grassland is incredibly vast, and the distance between the main sites is basically over 100 kilometers and some even reach 200 kilometers. A one-way trip between two scenic spots will take about 2 – 3 hours. So hiring a private driver or renting a car is highly recommended. The local driver is more familiar with the road conditions and the undeveloped original beautiful landscapes.
As for the cost, the reference price for an SUV, a business vehicle and a high-end off-road vehicle for one day is CNY 600 – 700, 700 – 800 and 1,000 – 1,200, respectively. The cost usually has covered the vehicle itself, driver services and fuel costs. So another important thing is to check whether the tolls and accommodation and meals for the driver are included before confirmation.
For tourists who want to rent a car, the cost for the above 3 vehicles is about CNY 200 – 300 cheaper than hiring a driver. And you can plan the scenic spots and control the travel pace as you like. But the above cost usually does not include the fuel costs, tolls, and parking fees. And you need to pay the deposit, which will be refunded to you after ensuring that there are no traffic violations or other issues after you return the car.
The most carefree way is to travel with a reliable agency, and China Xian Tour deserves your trust. Our highlight is that we can tailor a Hulunbuir Grassland trip based on your interests to cover all the scenic spots you prefer. And our driver is also an experienced local driver. Besides, we will book the hotels and tickets for you. Just take us into your consideration.
Where to Stay on Hulunbuir Grassland
No matter you want immersive cultural experiences or convenient urban stays, Hulunbuir Grassland offers diverse accommodation options to suit all different travel preferences. There are choices such as Mongolian yurts, grassland resorts, local homestays and Hailar city hotels.
In Hulunbuir Grassland, there are a total of 5 recommended areas. Each area offers a quite different experience. You can choose according to your travel itinerary and preferences.
Hailar District
As the travel hub, Hailar District has been the first stop and last stop for most tourists. Here, there are more high-end chain hotels and comfortable business hotels. The hotels usually offer well-equipped rooms with private baths, 24/7 front desks, and standard services. Your living quality can be ensured. Another important reason is that tourists can supplement foods and water and have an easy access to the grassland via taxi or shuttle. Perfect for travelers who prefer reliable amenities and easy transportation.
Tribes in the Grasslands
This is the best choice to enjoy an immersive experience of grassland scenery and local culture. Modern modified yurts and log cabins of the wild luxury campsite are the main hotel types. Staying in the tribes, you can try horseback riding and arrow shooting at daytime and appreciate the starry sky at nighttime. These camps often provide you with meals, bonfire parties, and guided activities. However, facilities here are rather less equipped. Most yurts lack private bathrooms, visitors need to use the shared facilities nearby. And the hot water supply is often limited (only available during certain hours).
Ergun City
Ergun City gathers more special homestays, high-end resort hotels and Russian style hotels. These hotels are usually exquisitely designed to blend modern comforts with traditional decor, ideal for families or travelers seeking convenience with a nice view of the wetland. They often include amenities like restaurants, swimming pools, and organized tours. As a result, this option is ideal for those searching for convenience without sacrificing authenticity.
Manzhouli City
Manzhouli is a border port city that connects China, Russia and Mongolia. More themed hotels and international hotels can be found here, such as the European court style and matryoshka doll theme. In brief, you may experience an exotic charm. It is best for tourists who pursue uniqueness. The city is also close to the scenic area and convenient for shopping.
Genhe City
Located in the heart of the Greater Khingan Mountains, Genhe City is recommended because of its featured homestays of the Ewenki ethnic minority. Here, you will live in the conical house or wooden house like the locals. Do not be afraid of coldness, the underfloor heating is equipped. The rooms usually integrate the elements of reindeer to show their own ethnic and cultural characters. Travelers seeking seclusion and tranquility will love this place.
How to Plan a Hulunbuir Grassland Tour
An ideal period of time for a Hulunbuir Grassland tour is 5 – 7 days. This duration allows explore the diverse scenery of the grassland, wetland, forest and the border cities.
A 5-day tour will focus more on the north line and may be on a tight schedule. You will be able to see the meandering rivers and grasslands, ride a horse along the road and feel the charm of border cities.
The brief 5-day itinerary is as follows:
Day 1: Arrival in Hailar
Day 2: Hailar – Mozhgrad River – Ergun
Day 3: Ergun – Border defense road – Heishantou Town
Day 4: Heishantou Town – 186 Colorful Ribbon River – Manchuria
Day 5: Manchuria – Hulun Lake – Hailar.
Recommended tour: 5 Days Inner Mongolia Hulunbuir Grassland Tour
Sample 7-Day Itinerary
Compared with the 5-day tour, a 7-day tour usually has a leisurely pace and tourists can fully experience the natural scenery and cultural charm of the Hulunbuir Grassland.
Day 1: Arrival in Hailar
Day 2: Hailar – Mozhgrad River – Ergun
Day 3: Ergun – The White Birch Forest – Enhe/Shiwei Town
Day 4: Shiwei – Border Checkpoint – Heishantou Town
Day 5: Heishantou Town – 186 Colorful Ribbon River – Manchuria
Day 6: Manchuria – National Gate – Hulun Lake – Balhu Tribe
Day 7: Manchuria – Hailar
Recommended tour: 7 Days Hulunbuir Family Tour: Kid-friendly
Essential Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit Hulunbuir Grassland
The best time for your Inner Mongolia tour to Hulunbuir Grassland is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm with sunny clear days. The grass is green dotted with wildflowers. The temperature usually ranges from 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C). It’s the perfect season for outdoor activities like horseback riding.
Autumn (September to October) is also a good time to visit for a different, golden landscape and cooler temperatures. But keep in mind that the temperature difference between day and night can be significant. So be sure to pack something warm.
Another thing you might want to consider is Nadam Festival. It takes place twice a year on Hulunbuir Grassland, with the Summer Naadam in late July and Winter Naadam in late December.
Must-Pack Items
- Comfortable shoes for hiking.
- Sunscreen and a hat (intense summer sun).
- Light jacket for evenings (autumn/winter).
- Insect repellent (Mosquitoes and other bugs thrive in grassland summers)
Cultural Etiquette
- Ask permission before photographing locals.
- Accept milk tea—it’s a sign of hospitality, though you may not get used to the taste from the beginning.
- When entering a yurt, do not step on the threshold, which is considered impolite.
- If the host proposes a toast to you, take the cup with both hands even if you do not drink wine.
Eco-Friendly Notes
- Avoid littering; respect wildlife habitats.
- Support local businesses by buying things like handmade crafts
Care for the livestock
If there are sheep or cows in front of your car, please honk your horn in advance to let them get away. Do not drive through in case the animals are scared.
Attractions nearby Hulunbuir Grassland
- Manzhouli Matryoshka Square in Manzhouli, Hulunbuir, is a large attraction with giant matryoshka dolls. Because of its location near the border of China and Russia, you’ll find a fusion of Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian culture at this popular attraction.
- Sino-Russian border Highway is along the border control line between China and Russia. The view is absolutely stunning driving down this highway. You’ll see endless grasslands, winding rivers, and rolling hills on your sides.
- White Birch Forest Scenic Area is a picturesque forest park that has a massive area of white birch trees, grasslands, lakes, and wooden houses.
FAQs about Hulunbuir Grassland
What is the best time of year to visit Hulunbuir Grassland for the lush green scenery?
Mid-June to August is definitely the golden time.
How many days are recommended for a full Hulunbuir Grassland experience?
5 – 7 days are needed for a full experience.
What is the local Mongolian food I should definitely try?
The roasted whole lamb, hand-served mutton, local salty milk tea, stone barbecue and Buryatia steamed buns are must-try foods.
Is mobile phone service and internet coverage reliable on the remote parts of the grassland?
In main tourist places, like Hailar and Manchuria, the service is reliable. But in the remote pastoral areas, the hinterland of grasslands and the Greater Khingan Forest Area, the internet coverage is still not stable.
What kind of clothing should I pack for the grassland, especially considering the night-time temperature drop?
A light jacket or a fleece will be helpful in dealing with the cold temperature at night. During daytime, summer clothes are enough, such as a short T-shirt, a long skirt, etc.
Adventure to Hulunbuir Grassland with China Xian Tour
The vast area of the Hulunbuir Grassland leads to a long distance between the main scenic spots. For first comers and tourists not familiar with the complex road conditions, it is strongly recommended to travel with China Xian Tour. We will offer you a complete carefree tour. Our itinerary will be customized based on your likes and a local driver will be assigned to ensure you enjoy a safe and smooth tour. We will also book the hotels for you. So do not hesitate to contact us.
