What other places are worth visiting around the Ussuri River?

The Ussuri River forms the border between China and Russia. Its basin boasts fertile land, dense primeval forests, and abundant flora and fauna. It has been recognized by the United Nations Environment Programme as an unpolluted river. Here's a travel guide to the Ussuri River: Main Attractions • Hutou Town: Located in Hulin City, Jixi City, Heilongjiang Province, Hutou Town marks the starting point of the Ussuri River. The Songhua River in China and the Iman River in Russia converge at Hutou and flow into the Ussuri River. Here, the "World's First Tiger" statue stands majestically on the banks of the Ussuri River. Measuring 25 meters long, 16 meters high, and weighing 30.4 tons, this massive copper-forged and welded sculpture covers an area of 200 square meters. It has been listed in the Shanghai Great World Guinness Book of Records and serves as a significant cultural landmark and iconic symbol of the Hutou scenic area. You can also visit the ruins of the Japanese Imperial Army's Hutou Fortress, including a museum and underground fortifications, which showcase the evidence of Japan's invasion of China through artifacts and relics. • Zhenbao Island: Located on the Ussuri River, Zhenbao Island was originally a peninsula extending from the Chinese side into the river. Over time, the constant flow of water transformed it into an island. It is the station of the Chinese Sail-860 missile boat and was also one of the sites of the Sino-Soviet border conflict, holding significant historical importance. • Ussuri Town: Situated on an islet at the confluence of the Heilongjiang and Ussuri Rivers, Ussuri Town marks the easternmost point of China's territory, with Russia just across the river. Only one family resides here permanently. Despite its small size, the town has a rich history and abundant tourism resources. It is home to China's largest chum salmon farm. Famous attractions include East Pole Square, Bolshoy Ussuriysky Island, and the Easternmost Outpost of China. • 856 Farm: Located in Mishan City, Jixi City, Heilongjiang Province, 856 Farm boasts a border line and islands. The border line is the lowest boundary formed by the confluence of the Heilongjiang and Ussuri Rivers, while the islands are steep formations created by the impact of the two rivers, offering stunning scenery. Best Time to Visit The Ussuri River offers unique experiences in every season. Spring (March-May) is ideal for witnessing the melting ice and snow and the revival of nature. Summer (June-August) is hot, humid, and rainy, making the riverside a perfect place to escape the heat. Autumn (September-November) showcases the vibrant colors of the "five-flower mountain," with forests ablaze in hues of red, yellow, and orange. Winter (December-February) transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, perfect for enjoying winter activities. Food Recommendations The local cuisine is characterized by its salty and spicy flavors. Heilongjiang cuisine is diverse, with signature dishes such as braised chum salmon, pickled vegetable powder, and the "Four Stews of Northeast China" (catfish stewed with eggplant, pork stewed with vermicelli, sauerkraut stewed with pork belly, and chicken stewed with mushrooms). Local snacks include Harbin red sausage, pine nut tripe, and Lao Ding Feng pastries. Transportation Guide • Hutou Town: Visitors can fly or take the train to Jixi City. From Jixi Highway Passenger Transport Terminal, take a long-distance bus directly to Hutou Town. There are two buses daily, one in the morning and one in the evening. After arriving, you can take a taxi or walk along the river. From Harbin, take the Jiamusi-Harbin Expressway → YiChun-Qiqihar Expressway → Hegang-Dalian Expressway → Jian-Ji Expressway, and exit at the Hulin/858/Hutou exit, then turn onto S309. From Yichun, take the Hegang-Nenjiang/Hegang-Yichun Highway to Hegang-Jiamusi Expressway, then Hegang-Dalian Expressway → Jian-Ji Expressway, and exit at the Hulin/858/Hutou exit, then turn onto S309. • 856 Farm: Fly to Jiamusi Airport and transfer to 856 Farm (approx. 2-hour drive). Alternatively, take the train to Mishan Station and transfer to the farm (approx. 1.5-hour drive). Things to Note • There is a large temperature difference in winter. Bring warm clothing and cold medicine. Keep your camera warm. • Summer is rainy. Be prepared for flood prevention. • The Ussuri River area is sparsely populated, and Siberian tigers inhabit some areas. Be cautious when cycling along the border.