Shiwei Russian Ethnic Village Guide: Border River, Log Cabins & Russian Charm

Shiwei is located on the Ergun River, facing Russia across the water. It has been named one of "China's Top 10 Charming Towns" and is the most Russian-flavored town in Inner Mongolia.

🌊 Border River

The Ergun River forms the Sino-Russian border. A river cruise lets you view the Russian village of Olochi across the water — colorful wooden houses, grazing cattle, and watchtowers.

🏠 Log Cabins

Shiwei's distinctive accommodation is the "mukeleng" — traditional Russian log houses built without nails, warm in winter and cool in summer. Many are run by Chinese-Russian families who serve authentic home-cooked Russian meals.

🍞 Russian Cuisine

Try freshly baked khleb (bread), blueberry jam, borscht, and Russian grilled meats.