The summer coolness in Mohe is back! I really don't recommend sisters to go this month! Because...
Because it's too cool!!!
In most people's impression, Mohe is a winter ice and snow kingdom, but little do they know that summer here is also full of surprises. When the summer sun shines on this land at 53° north latitude, the long daylight, lush forests, and unique border customs together paint a leisurely and romantic travel picture.
1. Complete Transportation Guide
Arriving in Mohe
Although Mohe Guliang Airport has direct flights, the routes are limited and flight times are few. It is more recommended to fly to Harbin first, then take a special train to Mohe. The overnight train lets you travel through the vast Northeast plains and dense forests in your sleep, and when you open your eyes in the morning, you are already in this mysterious northern borderland. If you prefer convenience, you can also choose to fly directly to Mohe Guliang Airport, rest briefly after landing, and start your journey immediately.
Local Transportation
Mohe's attractions are quite spread out, and public transportation is inconvenient. It is recommended to contact reliable local car rental services in advance. With a driver familiar with the routes, you can easily reach each attraction and explore some lesser-known hidden gems, making your trip more flexible and comfortable.
2. Immersive Three-Day Leisure Route
Day 1: Through the Forest Sea, Exploring the Northernmost Secret
- Morning: Depart from Mohe city center and head to the Primitive Birch Forest first. The straight and tall birch trees form a canopy, sunlight filters through the leaves casting dappled shadows. Walking in the forest, your feet tread on thick fallen leaves, and the gentle wind whispers in your ears, as if stepping into a fairy tale world. Stroll slowly along the forest path, feeling the tranquility and beauty of nature.
- Noon: Continue driving to the First Bend of the Heilongjiang River. Here, the river forms a unique Ω-shaped big loop. From the viewing platform, you can overlook the emerald river winding around lush islands, like emeralds embedded in the earth, with breathtaking scenery. However, the viewing platform has many steps, so remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a lightweight hiking pole.
- Afternoon: Head to the Ussuri Shoal and the northernmost point of China. Stand by the shoal and feel the surging waters of the Heilongjiang River; take a photo at the "Northernmost Point of China" monument to record your precious moment of reaching the country's northernmost tip.
- Evening: As night falls, stay in Beihong Village. This place retains strong Northeast folk customs. Stay in a warm farmhouse courtyard, sleep on a traditional large floral kang bed, listen to the rustling pine waves outside the window, and fall asleep under the stars.
Day 2: Exploring Arctic Village, Tracing Northernmost Imprints
- Morning: Depart from Beihong Village and head to Arctic Village. This mysterious border town is the northernmost town in China. Upon arrival, visit the Golden Rooster Crown sculpture, created with the "seal" as the design element, symbolizing Arctic Village's unique position on China's map. Then go to Boundary Marker No. 138 to feel the solemnity and sanctity of the border.
- Noon: Taste local specialties in Arctic Village and take a short rest.
- Afternoon: Visit the Arctic Outpost to experience the dedication and perseverance of border guards. Enter the northernmost post office, pick a postcard featuring Arctic Village scenery, stamp it with the "Northernmost Post Office in China" postmark, and send it to distant friends or your future self. When tired, step into the Arctic Café, order a rich coffee, and enjoy the peaceful town view through the window.
- Night: Continue staying in Arctic Village. The night here is especially quiet, with countless stars seeming close enough to touch.
Day 3: Accompanying Reindeer, Experiencing Cultural Charm
- Morning: Visit the Reindeer Park, enter the Evenki tents, and get close to the gentle and adorable reindeer. Feed them moss, watch their lively eyes and antlers adorned with blessing bells, wear colorful ethnic costumes and take photos with the reindeer, feeling like a forest spirit.
- Noon: After lunch, visit the 56 Fire Memorial Hall. Through rich exhibits and scene restorations, learn about the nationwide-shocking fire, remember history, and cherish the present.
- Afternoon: Go to Songyuan Park, a primitive Korean pine forest with century-old trees towering into the sky, where squirrels often dart and jump. It is said that walking clockwise around the ancient trees three times can pray for safety, so why not follow local customs and make a beautiful wish? Finally, climb the 153 steps to Polaris Square, stand at the city's highest point and overlook the whole of Mohe. At dusk, the huge Polaris sculpture reflects brilliant colors in the sunset, a stunning sight. After the tour, start your return journey, concluding your Mohe trip perfectly.
3. Taste of Mohe
- Iron Pot Stew: One of the must-try dishes in Mohe. Fresh chicken, ribs, or fish are stewed slowly in a large iron pot with green beans, potatoes, vermicelli, and other ingredients. The rich broth envelops the ingredients, fragrant and steaming, full of Northeast generosity and enthusiasm.
- Braised Pork Bones: Selected pork bones are braised for a long time until the meat is tender and flavorful, with a strong sauce aroma. Chewing the bones and sucking the marrow, the more you eat, the more delicious it gets. This is a classic hearty Northeast dish.
- Di San Xian (Three Earth Delicacies): A classic Northeast home dish made of eggplant, potatoes, and green peppers fried and stir-fried. The texture is rich, with soft eggplant, fluffy potatoes, and refreshing green peppers, savory and perfect with rice.
- Frozen Pears and Frozen Persimmons: Even in summer, you can taste these special frozen treats. Put the hard-frozen pears and persimmons in cool water to soften, then bite into them. The sweet juice instantly spreads in your mouth, cool and refreshing.
4. Thoughtful Travel Tips
1. Clothing Preparation: Mohe has a large temperature difference between day and night in summer. The daytime is warm, so wear light and breathable clothes; early morning and evening are cooler, so bring long-sleeve jackets and long pants to avoid catching a cold.
2. Sun Protection: The summer sun is strong with high UV radiation. Remember to bring sunscreen, sun hats, sunglasses, and other sun protection items to avoid sunburn.
3. Mosquito and Insect Protection: There are many mosquitoes and insects in forest areas. Prepare mosquito repellent, floral water, and other insect repellents, and try to avoid staying long in grass or other mosquito-dense areas.
During your summer time in Mohe, there is no need to rush. Slow down, sincerely feel every scenery, every flavor, and every unique cultural atmosphere here. Believe you will fall in love with this charming northern borderland.