Shiwei Russian Village – One of China’s “Top 10 Charming Towns”

Written by Veronica | Updated June 19,2025

Shiwei Russian Village is located in the northwest of Ergun City in Inner Mongolia, facing the Russian town of Olochi across the Ergun River. It is the only ethnic Russian township in China, and also the cradleland of the Mongolian. The architectural style here is full of Russian elements, and many houses are built with wooden “Mukeden”, showcasing a strong ethnic charm. Shiwei Russian Village also has rich ethnic and cultural activities, especially the Russian family tour, which is highly popular among tourists.

Integrating Mongolian and Russian styles, boasting charming natural scenery and profound historical culture, Shiwei Russian Village has been ranked as one of the “Top 10 Charming Towns in China”. This China-Russia border town, Shiwei, is attracting more and more people to travel to Inner Mongolia to experience its unique beauty.

Content Preview

• Historical Profundity of Shiwei Russian Village
• Natural Scenery of Shiwei Russian Village
• Ethnic Customs of Shiwei Russian Village
• Best Time to Visit Shiwei Russian Village
• Getting to Shiwei Russian Village
• Attractions Nearby Shiwei Russian Village

Historical Profundity of Shiwei Russian Village

Shiwei, also known as Ji Lalin, has a long history that dates back to the 5th century AD when villagers first settled here.

Shiwei is the cradleland of the Mongolians, historically known as Mengwu Shiwei. Mengwu is the earliest Chinese translation of the word “Mongolia”. It started as a name for a clan or tribe, and later became a common term for an emerging ethnic group. As early as the Sui and Tang dynasties, there was a Mongolian Shiwei tribe living here, engaged in a nomadic fishing and hunting life.

In 2001, the Russian Village in Shiwei was officially established, which is home to over 1,800 people, of whom 63% are of Chinese-Russian descendants.

In 2005, Shiwei Russian Village became one of China’s “Top 10 Charming Towns”, according to CCTV (China Central TV).

Today, Shiwei Russian Village is a homeland where Mongolian, Russian, Ewenki, Oroqen, Daur, and other ethnic groups live together harmoniously.

Natural Scenery of Shiwei Russian Village

Lying along the Ergun River, embedded in the northern foothills of the Greater Khingan Mountains, Shiwei Russian Village boasts exquisite poetic scenery. In the center of Unity Square stands a sculpture of a galloping horse. On its observation deck, you can enjoy the quietly flowing Ergun River and overlook the Russian grassland village of Olochi on the other side. You can also take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the scenic views.

In the early morning, thick fog envelops Shiwei Russian Village, adding a touch of mystery and tranquility. At night, this town under neon lights exudes an exotic charm.

The unique location and abundant natural resources make Shiwei Russian Village an ideal place for leisure vacations and sightseeing tours.

Ethnic Customs of Shiwei Russian Village

As the only Russian township in China, Shiwei Russian Village has unique and charming ethnic customs.

Most of the Russian residents here are Russians who came to China before and after the October Revolution of the former Soviet Union. They are proficient in the Russian language and still retain the Russian way of life and traditional culture to this day.

You can experience authentic Russian family life here, taste authentic ukleba, Russian pickles, caviar, homemade red bean wine, and other delicacies, and take a Russian-style sauna. There is also a chance to play the accordion with local Russians, sing classical Russian songs, and dance cheerful Russian dances to feel the unique Russian cultural atmosphere.

In addition, Shiwei truly showcases the historical evolution of the Mongolian people from hunting culture to nomadic civilization, as well as cultural development, production, and living customs. You can explore the origin of the Mongolian here.

Shiwei Russian Village has also developed various border tourism projects, such as the Shiwei Port Tour and the China-Russian Border River Cruise Tour, allowing you to experience the friendly exchanges between China and Russia and the magnificent and mysterious border scenery.

Best Time to Visit Shiwei Russian Village

The ideal time to explore Shiwei Russian Village is during the months of June to September in summer, as the weather is pleasant, and the lush greenery enhances the scenic beauty.

However, June to September is the peak season for tourism. To avoid the crowds, you can plan your Inner Mongolia tours in early June or late September when Shiwei Russian Village is still beautiful, and the weather is still favorable.

Getting to Shiwei Russian Village

You can fly to Hailar International Airport or take a train to Hailar Railway Station, and then take a taxi or shuttle bus to Ergun City. From there, you can take a taxi or local bus to Shiwei Russian Village.

Alternatively, you can drive or rent a car to Shiwei Russian Village from nearby cities like Ergun, Genhe, Hailar, or Manzhouli.

Attractions Nearby Shiwei Russian Village

• Ergun Wetland: This is the largest and most well-preserved wetland in Asia, covering over 12,000 hectares with a diverse range of flora and fauna.
• Montenegro Head (Heishantou): This border town features a large black stone monument marking the boundary between China and Russia.
• Aoluguya Reindeer Village: This is the only place in China where you can see reindeer and their Ewenki