Everyone thought I went abroad—this small city of Manzhouli is as beautiful as a fairy tale

Manzhouli, located on the China-Russia border, truly took my breath away. With its Russian-style castles and churches, my friends all thought I’d traveled abroad. The entire city is bathed in a candy-colored, fairy-tale filter. If you’re visiting Hulunbuir, set aside a day for this enchanting little town— you’ll find every romantic scene imaginable here. 🚗 Must-Visit Spots China-Russia Border Gate Scenic Area → Matryoshka Doll Square → Bear Xiaoman → Wedding Palace → Mammoth Park 📷 Photography Tips 📍 China-Russia Border Gate Scenic Area Visit in the morning—afternoon light is backlit. The Manzhouli Border Gate, standing tall through five generations, solemnly guards this land and is well worth a visit. 📍 Matryoshka Doll Square The landmark Matryoshka Hotel is here, much larger than expected. The vibrant buildings make for perfect photo ops. No need to enter the paid area—just snap pics outside. 📍 Bear Xiaoman Inside North Lake Park, you’ll find a giant pink strawberry bear. Drone shots here are spectacular. 📍 Wedding Palace Avoid mornings due to backlighting. This hidden hillside church is best photographed from a distance with a telephoto lens for a grander effect. It also offers panoramic views of Manzhouli and is ideal for sunsets. 📍 Mammoth Park Take the bus from downtown—it’s convenient, with a short walk from the stop. The park features giant candy-colored onion-dome castles, a Ferris wheel, and mammoth sculptures. Tickets are pricey, but you can photograph the castle from the parking lot without entering. 🚗 My Hulunbuir Itinerary Day 1️⃣ Arrive in Hailar → Explore city attractions → Stay in Hailar Day 2️⃣ Hailar → Moer River Cliff → Erguna Wetland → Erguna Day 3️⃣ Erguna → Birch Forest → Enhe Russian Ethnic Village → Shiwei Day 4️⃣ Shiwei → Cross the "Card Line" → Horseback riding on the prairie → Heishantou Day 5️⃣ Heishantou → Prairie train ride/grass sliding → Hulun Lake → Manzhouli Day 6️⃣ Border Gate → Matryoshka Square → Bear Xiaoman → Wedding Palace → Mammoth Park → Return to Hailar 📝 Travel Tips - **Transportation**: Attractions in Hulunbuir are far apart—self-driving is ideal. Expect 100+ km daily, but roads are smooth and beginner-friendly. - **Weather**: Prairie weather changes fast. Pack rain gear and a light jacket for temperature swings. - **Outfits**: Solid colors work best. A cowboy hat, baseball cap, or straw hat adds flair to photos. - **Gear**: Bring a telephoto lens for stunning prairie shots. A drone is a must for unique perspectives.