Linjiangtun Village (临江屯), located in the northernmost border of China, is a unique settlement primarily inhabited by Russian descendants. The village takes its name from its proximity to the Argun River, a natural boundary between China and Russia. The population consists mainly of ethnic Russians, Sino-Russian descendants, as well as a blend of Han Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian ethnicities. The village’s architectural landscape is dominated by traditional Russian-style homes known as “Mukeleng.”
Mukeleng houses are characteristic of Russian dwellings, constructed from wood using hand axes to create neatly interlocked beams. These homes have precise, well-defined corners and are known for their durability and thermal efficiency. The foundations are built using stones, which are cemented together. The thickest logs are placed at the bottom, and layers are stacked with each higher layer overlapping the one below. The construction method involves drilling holes into the wood and using wooden wedges to secure them. Additionally, moss is placed between the logs for insulation, ensuring that the houses remain warm in the harsh winters, where temperatures can drop as low as -30°C to -40°C, and cool in the summer. Many of the houses feature a small enclosed porch area called a “Mendou,” which serves as a windbreak during the colder months. Once the house is completed, residents either preserve the natural wood color by applying a clear varnish or paint the exterior in vibrant shades, with blue and green being popular choices.
Linjiangtun Village lies deep within the Greater Khingan Mountains, one of the most significant and remote forest regions in China, located along the country’s northern frontier. It is accessible from the town of Shiwei via Taiping Village. The inhabitants of Linjiangtun are primarily third and fourth-generation Sino-Russian descendants. While they have preserved many traditional Chinese customs, they also maintain a strong connection to their Russian heritage. This is especially evident in their celebration of both Chinese and Russian festivals, blending the two cultures into their daily lives.
The residents of Linjiangtun are known for their simplicity and hospitality, living peacefully in harmony with the natural surroundings. The village offers visitors a chance to escape from the distractions of modern life and immerse themselves in a serene and authentic environment. Visitors can stroll through the birch forests that surround the village, listening to the whispers of the wind as it moves through the white and black birch trees. A horseback ride along the banks of the Argun River offers a breathtaking experience, with views extending to the Hulunbuir Grasslands and the enchanted Moerdaoga Forest.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
Linjiangtun Village is located in Inner Mongolia, China, about 10 kilometers north of the Merged Shiwei Town in Erguna City, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia. It sits along the right bank of the Argun River, a border river between China and Russia, and is approximately 170 kilometers from the city center of Erguna (Labudalin Street). To get there:
- From Hailar: You can take a bus from Hailar Bus Station to Erguna (commonly referred to as Labudalin). In Erguna, there is a daily bus to Shiwei, departing at 9:30 a.m.
- From Moerdaoga: There is a bus from Moerdaoga to Shiwei, departing at 3:00 p.m. The trip takes about 2 hours, with a fare of around 30 RMB.
- By Private Car: You can also hire a private car from Hailar to Shiwei, which takes about 4 hours.
Once in Shiwei, you can take a taxi to reach Linjiangtun Village.
