Nestled in northern China near the border, lies a magical little city where four famous grasslands converge: Hulunbuir Grassland, Xilingol Grassland, Horqin Grassland, and Mongolian Grassland.
The majestic Greater Khingan Mountains pause here, where the vast sea of forests meets endless grasslands. Glaciers and hot springs coexist harmoniously in this enchanting land.
Elegant European-style architecture stands tall here, blending Eastern and Western charm. This town is none other than Aershan, the “Eastern Switzerland” lying quietly along the China-Mongolia border in Inner Mongolia!
Though merely a small county town, it gathers a wealth of world-class scenery. Backed by forests and facing grasslands, Aershan is a magical blend of pristine lakes, volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, and adventure. Within this one place lies a large part of China’s breathtaking beauty.
What’s more, every household here raises deer, so you don’t need to travel to Nara to have close encounters with these lovely creatures. A real-life version of The Wizard of Oz, Aershan is adorned with log cabins, Russian-style brick houses, and exquisite Western architecture, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into Eastern Europe or Russia.
A trip to Aershan is like experiencing multiple journeys in one! Step into Aershan and unlock the magical realm of 47°N, where every season is like a painting.
Spring in Aershan
Spring transforms Aershan into a sea of blooming azaleas. As the snow melts, life awakens, and the mountains are painted red like a morning glow.
Summer in Aershan
Summer in Aershan offers a refreshing 22°C. Verdant forests and crystal-clear streams make it the perfect summer retreat.
Autumn in Aershan
Autumn is a golden fairytale here. Layered forests and grasslands turn into various shades of gold, creating a stunning palette.
Winter in Aershan
Winter is a gentle embrace of glaciers and hot springs. In this season of “water freezing in mid-air,” rising steam dances atop snow-covered landscapes.
Step into Aershan and embark on an exotic journey through this border town.
Aershan Railway Station, a charming house with strong East Asian flair, is known as China’s most beautiful and smallest railway station. It attracts tourists and railway enthusiasts alike. Watching the green train glide in feels like stepping back in time.
Nordic-Style Architecture Aershan boasts a variety of beautiful buildings: spires, domes, bell towers, wooden houses… The diverse colors and designs give the town a unique flair.
Aershan Ski ResortIn winter, the Aershan Ski Resort is a must-visit. Speeding down the slopes, flanked by breathtaking snowy mountains, you’ll experience the perfect blend of thrill and scenery.
Oronbukhan Scenic Area. One of Aershan’s top attractions, this is where you can meet reindeer and follow the descendants of Tungusic people to explore their ancient and mysterious civilization.
Natural Wonders of Aershan. Aershan is a treasure gifted by nature. Millennia of geological movements have shaped its unique terrain, while centuries of harmony with nature have given it many remarkable gifts. A deep and enigmatic volcanic lake, Tianchi is a tranquil “dead lake” with no fish but teeming with waterbirds and ducks.
Hump Ridge Tianchi. Legend says that if two lovers toss stones into this lake and both stones float, they will stay together forever.
A Culinary Journey in Aershan“Living off the mountains and waters” is a way of life here. With grasslands at its doorstep and the Greater Khingan Mountains at its back, Aershan offers a bounty of natural delicacies.
Wang Xiao’er Pancakes
Legend has it that a local chef named Wang Xiao’er perfected these pancakes after learning from a master. Crispy outside and tender inside, these pancakes are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Zhe Luo Fish
Aershan’s abundant waterways produce this freshwater fish, known for its tender and delicious meat. It can be stewed, fried, or made into soup—or minced for dumplings.
Fried Willow Fish
Don’t be fooled by the name! This isn’t a plant but a small freshwater fish. Fried to a crisp, it’s a perfect snack to pair with drinks.
Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms
Wild yellow mushrooms from the mountains are slow-cooked with free-range chicken in an iron pot. The dried mushrooms become chewy, and their rich flavor blends perfectly with the chicken broth.
Hand-Pulled Lamb
Inner Mongolia’s lamb is renowned for its tenderness, making it perfect for hand-pulled lamb dishes. Fresh lamb is boiled with seasonings, then cut and served with dipping sauces. Pair it with Mongolian salty milk tea with roasted rice, and you have a taste of heaven.
Aershan is a treasure trove of beauty and culture. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, a culinary adventure, or simply new horizons, Aershan promises a unique experience that will leave you enchanted.