Just returned from 3 days in Hulunbuir – my spending perspective is completely shattered!

Can you believe it? After just 3 days in Hulunbuir, the local prices gave me a real lesson – my entire consumption mindset collapsed! I thought traveling to the grasslands would save money, but by the end of the trip, my wallet was emptier than my face. That said, the breathtaking scenery and experiences were truly unforgettable, and I've been dreaming about it ever since returning. Today I'll share my Hulunbuir adventure while helping you avoid pitfalls, so you can spend less on unnecessary expenses. 1. Preparations - Transportation: I chose a direct flight to Hailar Dongshan International Airport. Booking a month in advance got me reasonable airfare, but prices fluctuate wildly during peak season. Locally, I opted for a chartered car at 300-500 RMB per person per day (including driver and fuel), which allowed flexible stops for sightseeing – though admittedly pricey. - Accommodation: Booked online in advance. A yurt in Heishantou cost several hundred RMB per night – more expensive than some city hotels! In Manzhouli, I stayed at the Matryoshka Hotel at relatively reasonable rates, within walking distance to Matryoshka Square, though rooms get scarce during peak season. 2. 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: Grassland Crossing & Wetland Encounter Morning at the Morigele River, praised by Lao She as "the world's most winding waterway." From the vantage point, the serpentine river flows like a silk ribbon across the grasslands – every shot is postcard-worthy. But horse riding prices shocked me: hundreds of RMB for 30 minutes, pricier than a hotpot feast in the city! Afternoon at the Ergun Wetland, truly deserving its title as Asia's premier wetland, with spectacular views from the observation deck. Stayed overnight in a Heishantou yurt, joining the bonfire party and fireworks under starry skies – an amazing experience, though my wallet winced in pain. Day 2: Border Highway & National Gate Morning grass sliding at 186 Colorful Ribbon River, where you can literally slide toward the Russian border on an ultra-long, thrilling track (at premium prices). Afternoon visit to Manzhouli's National Gate Scenic Area, featuring the fifth-generation national gate and Boundary Marker No. 41. The giant matryoshka dolls at the square make impressive photo ops. Russian dinner and night views transformed Manzhouli into a "Little Hong Kong," though the meal wasn't cheap. Day 3: Forest Lakes & Romantic Return Morning at the Birch Forest scenic area, where sunlight filters through snow-white trunks onto tame forest reindeer (remember to buy moss for feeding – at additional cost). Afternoon at Hulun Lake's crystal-clear waters offered therapeutic breezes and fresh lake fish. Evening return to Hailar included souvenir beef jerky purchases (also not inexpensive). 3. Pitfall Avoidance Guide 1. Spending: Food and activities within scenic areas are generally overpriced. Confirm prices for horse riding, grass sliding etc. in advance to avoid scams. Buy specialties at city supermarkets rather than tourist spots. 2. Accommodation: Book early during peak season to avoid inflated prices or no vacancies. Check yurt sanitation as some lack private bathrooms. 3. Activities: Be wary of street touts offering tours – hidden costs may apply. Though this Hulunbuir trip cost a pretty penny, those moments of running freely across grasslands and soaking in magnificent views made it all worthwhile. If you plan to visit, be sure to budget and research thoroughly!