When you hear about boundless grasslands, vast forests, stunning snowy landscapes, bubbling hot springs and cultural integration, do you ever consider they are descriptions — features actually — of one place? They are, believe it or not. Arxan, a tiny city in Hinggan League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is that magical place. In recent years, Arxan, a hidden gem boasting breathtaking winter landscape, has captivated visitors seeking to enjoy a "pure-white, fairy-tale world."
"Haren Arxan," Arxan's full name, means "hot holy water" in the Mongolian language. Arxan lies on the border between China and Mongolia. Arxan has long served as a gateway for cultural exchanges. It features many historic buildings, which reflect the Russian, European and other styles of architecture.
Dubbed "the most beautiful small railway station in China," Arxan railway station is a must-see. The railway station, built in 1937, is an iconic landmark in Arxan. The main, two-story building, with bright yellow walls and ink-green wooden trim, is full of exotic flavor. The station, combined with the surrounding Russian-style buildings, has become a magnet, drawing travelers, and especially shutterbugs, who want to pursue the "imprint of time."
Nestled on the southwestern slopes of the majestic Dahinggan Mountains, Arxan is located at the intersection of four major grasslands (Hulun Buir, Horqin, Xilingol and Mongolia). Given its geographic position, Arxan boasts abundant natural tourism attractions, including forests, lakes, springs, gorges, wetlands and snow-capped mountains. As such, tourists, and especially photographers, have long-considered Arxan to be a paradise.
Arxan National Forest Park is an ideal place to explore the beauty of natural landscapes. The park is renowned for its captivating volcanic landforms, invigorating hot springs and breathtaking granite peaks. It offers an immersive experience for visitors; the park promises an unforgettable experience, whether the guests prefer hiking through dense woods, strolling across gorges between peaks, or marveling at unique volcanic landscapes, such as crater lakes and volcanic lava and cones.
In winter, the park becomes a mesmerizing world of ice and snow, straight out of a fairy tale. Winter in Arxan can last seven months, with snow covering the area for six months. When visitors step into this winter wonderland, they are greeted by a pristinewhite canvas, which stretches as far as the eye can see. The mountains, adorned in snowy coats, stand majestically, inviting explorers to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of nature. The crisp air carries the soft rustling of the wind through the dense forest.
The park's lush forest not only offers a magnificent landscape, it also provides a safe haven for numerous species of local wildlife. Mongolian gazelles, red deer, roe deer and other wild animals tend to wander along the forest's trails, making it an ideal destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Heavenly Lake (also known as Tianchi) is the highlight of the park. In winter, this oval crater lake, dotted with white snow, is like a blue mirror embedded in a snowy peak. Sunrises offer travelers wonderful opportunities for stunning photos. When the first rays of dawn break over the mountain ridge, the frost-covered lake resembles a luminous sapphire, with serene and elegant luster. When the sunlight shines on the lake's surface, it sparkles, with silver gleams.
Unfrozen River is another must-see scenic spot, especially in winter. The river is like a magical ribbon. Why? When the cold wind blows, the surrounding area is covered with ice and snow, but the river still flows. Its ice-free secret lies deep beneath the river bed, where the river passes over an area of geothermal activity. The heat from below raises the temperature, allowing the river's water to stay above the freezing point. The river is a paradise for shutterbugs. Early each morning, the river is surrounded by a magical looking mist. As the sun rises, the mist, and the trees (covered by rime, a meteorological wonder that appears only when vapor meets cold air), are "dyed" in gold.
Arxan also boasts excellent hot springs, which provide travelers with a warm respite from the chilly temperature. The mineral rich springs are believed to have healing properties; it is widely believed the water helps ease joint pain, and cures muscle and joint ailments. Development and utilization of the hot springs began in 1853, during the reign of Emperor Xianfeng (1831-1861), of the Qing Dynasty (1616-1911). Since then, the thermal springs have earned, and enhanced, the city's reputation as a "healing destination." The hot springs have become a magnet, which has attracted domestic visitors and international travelers, from Mongolia, Russia and various other countries.
Arxan offers a unique blend of fascinating natural scenery and abundant cultural heritage. There is something for everyone; without a doubt, the enchanting city is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Photos from VCG
(Women of China English Monthly January 2026)
Editor: Wang Shasha
