Manzhouli Voyage Tips and guide

Manzhouli (满洲里; Mǎnzhōulǐ) is a city in Inner Mongolia Province, China.

Established in 1901 as a stop on the Trans-Manchurian Railway, which was being built at the time as a shortcut between the main line of the Trans-Siberian Railway and Vladivostok, Russia, it is now more like an international marketplace where Russians cross the border in search of cheap and portable items for selling back in the Motherland.

Manzhouli has more shopping malls than some American cities of comparable size. Look around, because you never know what you might see. It's a lot of fun.

Also, if you want to practice speaking Russian in China, this is the city to be in.

There are literally dozens of restaurants catering to Russians, and many of them have shows with traditional and modern Russian dancing and also Chinese acrobats.

Manzhouli also has lots of funny statues around town that people enjoy taking pictures with. There are statues of Santa Claus, hip hop dancers and two men carrying a keg of beer among many others. It is amazing to see.

Manzhouli developed from a small settlement into a modern border city in the early 20th century, following the construction of the Chinese Eastern Railway, which connected Northeast China with Russia. The railway transformed the area into a key transit point for goods and passengers, laying the foundation for Manzhouli’s role as an international transport hub.

Throughout the 20th century, the city’s growth was closely tied to cross-border trade and diplomatic relations between China and Russia. Its position at the frontier made it an important customs and logistics center, while also exposing it to cultural exchange, particularly Russian influence in architecture, commerce, and daily life.

In recent decades, Manzhouli has expanded rapidly as China’s largest land port, with modern infrastructure, commercial districts, and tourism facilities. Today, the city reflects a layered history shaped by railways, border trade, and international exchange, which continues to define its identity and appeal to travelers.

Manzhouli’s culture is strongly shaped by its border location and long history of cross-border exchange. The city displays a distinctive blend of Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian influences, which can be seen in its architecture, food, languages heard on the streets, and everyday life.

Russian influence is especially visible in public buildings, themed squares, restaurants, and souvenir shops, many of which feature Russian-style designs and signage. Russian cuisine, music, and cultural motifs are common, reflecting decades of trade and interaction across the border. At the same time, traditional Chinese customs and Inner Mongolian elements remain an important part of local identity.

Festivals, public performances, and themed attractions often emphasize international friendship and border culture, making Manzhouli feel noticeably different from inland Chinese cities. This multicultural atmosphere is one of the city’s main appeals for visitors, offering a cultural experience that is both familiar and foreign within China.

Manzhouli experiences a temperate continental climate, shaped by its inland location on the Hulunbuir grasslands and its proximity to the Russian border. The city is known for its distinct seasons, long winters, and short summers, with large temperature differences throughout the year.

Winter usually lasts from late October to March and is extremely cold and dry. Temperatures frequently fall well below freezing, and strong winds can make it feel even colder. Snowfall is generally light compared to coastal regions, but icy roads and severe wind chill are common. Winter travel is possible, but visitors should be prepared with heavy winter clothing, insulated footwear, and protection against wind.

Summer is brief but relatively warm, typically from June to August. Daytime temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing, though evenings can remain cool. Most of the city’s annual rainfall occurs during these months, usually as short, intermittent showers rather than continuous rain. This is also the peak travel season, especially for visitors coming to enjoy the grasslands and nearby natural attractions.

Spring and autumn are short transitional seasons, but they are widely regarded as the most pleasant times to visit Manzhouli. Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) offer mild temperatures, lower rainfall, and clearer skies, making them ideal for walking, photography, and outdoor activities. These periods also tend to be less crowded than summer.

Because of the harsh winter climate and strong seasonal variation, hotel prices and transportation availability may fluctuate throughout the year, with higher demand in summer and lower prices during the coldest months. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly and check weather conditions in advance, especially when visiting outside the peak season.

Map of Manzhouli

• 49.566667117.331 Manzhouli Airport (NZH  ^IATA) (located 9 km sw of downtown). There are flights to Beijing, Harbin and Hohhot, and an international flight to Choibalsan, Mongolia.  

Manzhouli is an important railway hub on the China–Russia border and is well connected by train. Manzhouli Railway Station handles both domestic services within China and international rail traffic. Regular domestic trains link the city with Hailar, Harbin, and other cities in Northeast China.

The city is also famous as the Chinese terminus of the Trans-Siberian Railway, with international trains connecting Manzhouli to Zabaykalsk in Russia and onward to Irkutsk and Moscow (international services and schedules are subject to border and visa regulations).

• 49.583117.44232 Manzhouli Railway Station (Stantsiya Man'chzhuriya (Russian name), 1st - class Railway Station, Major Land Port Railway Station of China), South 1st Street, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (It is located in the southern part of Manzhouli urban area. You can take local public transport or taxis directly to the station. It is about 9.8 kilometers away from Manzhouli Port and the terminal of Binzhou Railway.). (updated Dec 2025)

For getting around Manzhouli, public city buses are inexpensive and cover all major parts of the city, including the railway station, downtown commercial streets, and key tourist areas. Most bus routes pass through a small number of central streets and terminate at major transport or sightseeing hubs, making the system relatively easy to understand despite limited English signage. The main bus stops used by travelers are concentrated in these areas. They are:

• 49.5974117.43923 Manzhouli Railway Station Bus Stop, Near Manzhouli Railway Station, Xikai Street, Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia, China (Located directly outside the main entrance of Manzhouli Railway Station.). Major bus stop serving city routes connecting the railway station with downtown Manzhouli and tourist areas. Convenient for travelers arriving by train. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6247117.46564 Guomen (National Gate) Bus Stop, Near Manzhouli National Gate Scenic Area, Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia, China (Located near the entrance of the National Gate Scenic Area at the western edge of the city.). Main bus stop for visitors traveling to the China–Russia National Gate Scenic Area. Serves as a terminus for city bus routes from the city centre. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.5958117.43395 Yidao Street Bus Stops, Along Yidao Street, city centre, Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia, China (Distributed along Yidao Street, the main commercial street in the city centre.). One of the main public transport corridors in Manzhouli, connecting commercial areas with major transport hubs. Frequently used by local buses. (updated Dec 2025)

The city centre is compact and walkable. Taxis are widely available and inexpensive. Local buses connect major landmarks, though distances are short enough that most visitors rely on taxis. To reach out-of-town attractions such as the National Gate, a taxi or private car is the most convenient option.

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  49.630182117.3537081 Manzhouli National Gate Scenic Area (Manzhouli China-Russia Border National Gate Scenic Area; Manzhouli 5th-Generation National Gate Scenic Spot), 9 kilometers west of Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China, ☏ 0470 - 6668688Country code missing. The Manzhouli National Gate is the most iconic landmark of the city, located directly on the China–Russia border. The current structure is the fifth-generation gate, featuring a massive rectangular frame topped with the national emblem. Inside the scenic area, visitors can see Border Marker No. 41, retired steam locomotives, and the Manzhouli Border Defense Museum. On clear days, the gate stands strikingly against the deep blue sky. 60CNY. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6082117.31572 Matryoshka Square (Taowa Scenic Area) (Manzhouli Matryoshka Resort; Manzhouli Matryoshka Theme Park), West of Wanda Plaza, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (Located in the western part of Manzhouli urban area, about 3 km from Manzhouli Railway Station and 10 km from Manzhouli National Gate Scenic Area. Accessible by taking local bus No. 6 or directly by taxi.). 09:00–21:00 (daily; the night view lighting time is usually from 19:00 to 21:00, subject to on-site notice in peak season). Matryoshka Square features one of the largest matryoshka doll buildings in the world, standing over 30 meters tall. The open square contains dozens of brightly painted giant dolls representing Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian cultural motifs. At night, the illuminated display creates a whimsical and surreal visual experience. 148CNY. (updated Dec 2025)

  

• 49.6058117.31223 Manzhouli Wedding Palace (Manzhouli Love Castle; Manzhouli Wedding Theme Church), South of Matryoshka Square, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (Located in the western tourist area of Manzhouli, adjacent to Matryoshka Square (about 500 meters apart). Accessible by taking local bus No. 6 to Matryoshka Square Station, then walking south for 10 minutes; or directly by taxi from downtown Manzhouli (about 15 minutes' drive).). Manzhouli Wedding Palace is a striking brick-red Gothic-style building on Dongshan Botanical Garden’s hillside, with sharp spires and delicate carvings. It mainly serves as a venue for wedding ceremonies and pre-wedding shoots, while also drawing tourists with its unique look. The hilltop spot offers a bird's-eye view of Manzhouli, making it a popular photo check-in landmark of the border city. (updated Dec 2025)

• 49.6201117.36254 Beihu Park (Manzhouli) (Manzhouli North Lake Park), North of Minzhu Street, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (Located in the northern part of Manzhouli urban area. Accessible by taking local bus No. 3 to Minzhu Street North Station, then walking north for 8 minutes; or by taxi from downtown (about 10 minutes' drive). It is about 2 km away from Manzhouli Railway Station.). Manzhouli Beihu Park is a free urban park centered on a lake. It has lush greenery and waterfront trails perfect for casual walks. Summer brings boating fun, while winter turns the lake into an ice-skating spot. It’s a great place to experience local leisure life. Free. (updated Dec 2025)

  

  

• 49.6075117.30825 Manzhouli Mammoth Park (Manzhouli Mammoth Theme Park; Manzhouli Ice and Snow Mammoth Park), West of Matryoshka Square, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (Adjacent to Matryoshka Square (about 1km away). Take Bus No.6 to Matryoshka Square Station, then walk west for 15 minutes; or take a taxi from downtown (10-minute drive).), ☏ 470-6246666Country code missing. 09:00–18:00 (May–October); 09:00–17:00 (November–April). Manzhouli Mammoth Park is a theme park famous for its giant mammoth sculptures and grassland scenery. It displays dozens of lifelike mammoth statues, recalling the prehistoric ecological features of the region. The park combines cultural display and outdoor leisure, suitable for families and history lovers. It also offers ice-snow activities in winter, adding seasonal fun to the visit. Free. (updated Dec 2025)

• 49.6098117.35626 Manzhouli Museum (Manzhouli City Museum; Manzhouli Border Culture Museum), 22 Minzhu Street, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (Located in the downtown area. Accessible by taking Bus No.1/3 to Minzhu Street Station, then walking for 5 minutes; a 10-minute taxi ride from Manzhouli Railway Station.), ☏ 470-6225270Country code missing. 09:00–16:30 (Tuesday–Sunday); Closed on Mondays (except public holidays). Manzhouli Museum showcases the city’s border history and Sino-Russian cultural exchanges. It houses exhibits on local geology, ethnic customs and trade development. The museum offers free entry, requiring valid ID for registration. It is a key spot to understand Manzhouli’s unique border charm. Free. (updated Dec 2025)

  

• 48.8632117.57657 Hulun Lake (Dalai Lake) (Dalai Nur; Hulun Nur Scenic Area), New Barag Right Banner, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (about 60 km southwest of Manzhouli City) (No direct public bus; recommended to take a chartered car or self-drive from Manzhouli (1.5-hour drive). Follow the provincial highway S203 to the scenic area entrance.). Hulun Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Inner Mongolia. It boasts stunning grassland-lake scenery and rich aquatic biodiversity. The lake is a popular spot for birdwatching and lake-view picnics in summer. It’s a highlight of Manzhouli’s natural landscape. 40CNY. (updated Dec 2025)

• Join a border-tour bus to see the China–Russia boundary up close
• Watch Russian-style dance shows or Mongolian performances
• Take evening photos of illuminated buildings
• Visit trade markets for Russian foods and crafts

Shopping in Manzhouli is heavily influenced by Russian culture. Many stores and markets feature Russian-style architecture and sell Russian food products, crafts, amber jewelry, fur garments, vodka, matryoshka dolls, and other imported goods. Prices vary widely, making the city suitable for both budget and premium shoppers.

Popular Russian food items include:

• Korovka milk candy
• Alenka chocolate with the iconic red packaging
• Russian yogurt, cheese, and milk tablets
• Honey varieties from Bryansk or Siberian forests
• Kvass, a fermented black bread beverage
• Vodka brands such as Beluga and Russian Standard
• Red and black caviar (check freshness and transport conditions)

These products are widely available in border markets, specialty stores, and supermarkets.

Russian-style souvenirs are widely sold, including:

• Matryoshka dolls in various sizes and finishes
• Amber jewelry (necklaces, earrings, bracelets)
• Russian wood carvings and embossed metal artworks
• Fridge magnets, keychains, postcards with Russian motifs
• Traditional Russian scarves and folk costumes

Amber and matryoshkas are particularly popular, though prices vary greatly across shops.

Manzhouli’s food culture mixes Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian flavours.

Recommended dishes:

• Russian borscht, baked bread, grilled meats
• Mongolian mutton, dairy dishes, hotpot

• 

  Local lake fish from Hulun Lake There are many Russian-themed restaurants around the central district.

There are dozens of bars and restaurants in Manzhouli.

Some of the top Russian bars are VIP Zona, Baikal, Marina 888 and Spa Port. The best Chinese club is Banana.

Beer and vodka are easy to find here.

There's also a Chinese/Mongolian drink called bai jiu. It has been described as a Chinese vodka. However, it's quite possibly stronger than vodka and the taste, well, you don't really care about the taste do you.

Manzhouli is just south of Siberia and it gets bitter cold. (Some) People like to drink really strong alcohol.

You will also want to make sure to try the Mongolian milk tea.

• 49.6085117.35121 VIP Zona (Russian Bar) (VIP Zona Russian Style Bar), Russian Style Street, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia (Located in the core area of Russian Style Street; 15-min taxi ride from Manzhouli Railway Station), ☏ 470-6238888Country code missing. 18:00–02:00. VIP Zona is a popular Russian bar with authentic decor and drinks. It serves classic Russian vodka and snacks, attracting both locals and tourists. Live music performances are available on weekends, creating a vibrant atmosphere. 80–150CNY. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6092117.35482 Baikal (Russian Bar) (Baikal Russian Pub), Zhongyang Street, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia (In downtown Manzhouli; 10-min walk from Manzhouli Museum; accessible via Bus No.3 to Minzhu Street Station), ☏ 470-6229998Country code missing. 17:30–01:30. Baikal features traditional Russian interior design and local flavors. It offers a wide selection of Russian beers and homemade pickles. The bar is known for its cozy vibe, perfect for casual gatherings with friends. 60–120CNY. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6078117.31453 Marina 888 (Russian Bar) (Marina 888 Russian Lounge), Near Matryoshka Square, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia (5-min walk from Matryoshka Square; take Bus No.6 to Matryoshka Square Station). 19:00–03:00. Marina 888 is a stylish Russian bar close to tourist attractions. It serves premium Russian wine and seafood platters. The bar’s waterfront view adds to its charm, making it a great spot for night-outs. 100–200CNY. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6185117.36824 Spa Port (Russian Bar) (Spa Port Russian Bar & Lounge), Border Economic Cooperation Zone, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia (20-min taxi ride from downtown; near the Sino-Russian border checkpoint), ☏ 470-6258889Country code missing. 18:30–02:30. Spa Port blends Russian bar culture with relaxing lounge services. It offers signature cocktails and light meals, paired with soft background music. It’s a favorite among visitors seeking a laid-back nightlife experience. 90–160CNY. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.612117.35755 Banana (Chinese Club) (Banana Club Manzhouli), Xinggong Road, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia (10-min taxi ride from Manzhouli Railway Station; accessible via Bus No.1 to Xinggong Road Station), ☏ 470-6236666Country code missing. 20:00–04:00. Banana is the top Chinese club in Manzhouli, featuring modern decor and dynamic music. It hosts DJ shows and theme parties regularly, drawing a young crowd. The club offers a variety of Chinese and international drinks for partygoers. 150–300CNY. (updated Dec 2025)

Manzhouli offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget inns and mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties. Hotels are found throughout the city, with many clustered near the central pedestrian streets, Russian-influenced commercial zones, and near North Lake Park. Prices can vary significantly depending on season, events, and demand.

• 49.6105117.35381 Friendship Hotel - Manzhouli (Manzhouli Friendship Hotel; Central Business District Mid-range Hotel), 18 Minzhu Street, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (Located in the central business district; 8-min taxi from Manzhouli Railway Station; 5-min walk from Manzhouli Museum), ☏ 470-6222168Country code missing. A well-rated mid-range hotel near central business streets. It offers clean, comfortable rooms and efficient service. Good value for money, popular with business and leisure travelers. Convenient access to shopping and dining areas. 380–580CNY. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6089117.34922 Matryoshka Doll Hotel (Manzhouli Matryoshka Theme Hotel; Russian-style Character Hotel), 36 West Zhongyang Street, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (In the Russian-style street area; 12-min taxi from Manzhouli Railway Station; 10-min walk from Matryoshka Square). A unique Russian-style themed hotel with matryoshka-inspired decor. Affordable and fun, ideal for tourists seeking cultural experiences. Rooms are cozy and full of character, with friendly staff. 280–600CNY. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6132117.35963 Manzhouli International Hotel (Manzhouli International Business Hotel), 56 Xinggong Road, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (10-min taxi from Manzhouli Railway Station; 15-min drive from Matryoshka Square; accessible via Bus No.1 to Xinggong Road Station). A standard city hotel suitable for mid-range travelers. It features modern facilities and reliable service. Rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with convenient access to urban amenities. 420–1200. (updated Dec 2025)
• 49.6112117.34854 Venice Hotel (Manzhouli Venice Business Hotel), n the commercial core area; 9-min taxi from Manzhouli Railway Station; 8-min walk from Manzhouli Museum. A mid-range local hotel with decent reviews. It provides clean rooms and thoughtful service at a reasonable price. Close to shopping malls and restaurants, convenient for daily travel. 350–650CNY. (updated Dec 2025)

• 49.6182117.37565 Manzhouli Shangri-La Hotel (Shangri-La Manzhouli; Manzhouli Luxury International Hotel), 88 Binhe East Road, Manzhouli City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China (Located by the riverfront; 15-min taxi from Manzhouli Railway Station; 20-min drive from Matryoshka Square; accessible via Bus No.5 to Binhe East Road Station). A luxury international hotel offering premium amenities and river views. It features fine dining restaurants, a spa and an indoor pool. Service is impeccable, ideal for high-end travelers. It’s a top choice for comfort and elegance in Manzhouli. 1,280–3,280CNY. (updated Dec 2025)

In addition to hotels, there are guesthouses and inns near the railway station and pedestrian streets, as well as lake-view homestays near Hulun Lake for a more scenic, countryside feel. These options can be especially attractive in summer. Prices and quality vary, so checking online reviews before booking is recommended.

Manzhouli has a temperate continental climate with very cold, dry winters and short, warm summers. Temperatures in winter can drop far below freezing, while summer is mild and wet compared to the rest of the year. Spring and autumn are brief but often the most comfortable for travel.

• Hotel rates vary seasonally, with May and July–August typically more expensive. Booking in advance often yields better rates.
• Weekdays (e.g., Thursday) may be cheaper than weekends.
• Look for package deals that combine hotel and activities to save money. expedia

Whether you’re on a budget or seeking upscale comfort, Manzhouli’s accommodation range covers all needs — from budget friendly inns and mid-range city hotels, to luxury options like Shangri-La. The city’s climate and seasonal pricing can affect availability, so plan ahead if you’re travelling in peak months.

Zabaykalsk, Russia