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HRB destination photo
NZH destination photo

HRB → NZH

Which side of the plane to sit from Taiping Airport (Harbin) to Manzhouli Xijiao Airport (Manzhouli)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the vast Hulunbuir Grasslands and features the stunning Hulun Lake, one of China's largest freshwater lakes, during the descent into Manzhouli.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
ðŸŒū

Songnen Plain

Expansive agricultural views of the fertile black soil plains surrounding Harbin.

ðŸĶĒ

Zhalong Wetlands

Gliding over the vast marshlands near Qiqihar, known for being a red-crowned crane habitat.

ðŸŒē

Southern Khingan Ridges

Aerial views of the southern slopes of the Great Khingan Range as the terrain begins to rise.

🐎

Hulunbuir Grassland

Infinite stretches of undulating steppe that define the iconic Inner Mongolian landscape.

🌊

Hulun Lake

The massive blue expanse of the 'Sea-like Lake' visible shortly before landing.

Opt for a morning flight to have the sun behind you for better photography. The highlight is Hulun Lake, which appears on the left during the final 20 minutes of flight. Summer (June-August) offers vibrant green grass, while winter provides a surreal, frozen white desert appearance.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙ïļ

Harbin Skyline

A view of the winding Songhua River and the northern urban sprawl of the Ice City upon takeoff.

⛰ïļ

Great Khingan Forest

Dense covers of larch and birch trees across the heart of China's largest forest reserve.

ðŸĒ

Hailar District

The administrative center of Hulunbuir visible as a concentrated urban patch amidst the grass.

🇷🇚

Russian Border Horizon

Distant views toward the Argun River valley which forms the natural border with Russia.

🊆

Manzhouli Approach

Glimpses of the unique Russian-influenced architecture and the giant Matryoshka Square.

The right side is ideal for seeing the densest parts of the Great Khingan Mountains. If flying in late September, the larch forests turn a brilliant gold. During landing, watch for the distinct mix of Chinese, Russian, and Mongolian architectural styles that define the Manzhouli cityscape.

Top Activities in Manzhouli
Route Information

Distance: 799 km (496 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min

Departure: HRB (45.6234016418457, 126.25)

Arrival: NZH (49.566666999999995, 117.33)

Route Type: Domestic

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