There is a river in Arxan that never freezes, even at minus 30 degrees Celsius.

It is called the Unfrozen River, a section of the Halha River about 20 kilometers long. Geothermal heat beneath the riverbed keeps the water at a constant temperature of around 4°C year-round, so even when the banks are already frosted, the river still flows and steams. No wonder some call it “the warm belt of the Greater Khingan Range.”

Watch the Autumn Morning Mist

On autumn mornings, a layer of white mist rises from the river and drifts slowly along the channel. Larches and birches on both banks glow golden in the morning light, their reflections falling on the water—the whole river looks like a flowing golden ribbon.

Wait for the Cattle to Drink

Another regular spectacle at the Unfrozen River is the cattle coming to drink. Herders bring their herds to the riverbank around 9:30 a.m. But they don't linger long—so keep your camera ready.

Shooting Spots

At the river bend: you can capture steam, morning mist, distant mountains, and the silhouettes of cattle all at once—the most layered composition.

At the open stretch of the river: the cattle often wade in here to drink, making it a popular spot for “cattle drinking” shots.

From high on the bank: a wide-angle lens can take in the river winding through the golden forest; drone shots are even more spectacular.

Timing Guide

5:00–7:00: The mist is at its thickest. Just after dawn, white fog churns over the river—ideal for photography.

7:00–8:30: Around sunrise, the mist is tinted pale gold by the sun, and the light is at its softest.

9:30–10:30: Villagers drive their cattle to the river one group after another. Each group stays in the water for only a few minutes, so once you've got your shots, wait for the next herd.

Beyond photography, you can also ride a horse slowly along the river. Hooves splash through the shallows, golden birches arch overhead from both banks, and mist drifts around you— riding through the river feels more like stepping into a painting than standing on the shore.