#erguna

[theworldunderground]

The Erguna wetlands. Winds whipped through at high speeds, and the sun only poked out in spots as we reached the peak. Supposedly the largest wetland in Asia, though it was near impossible to find official statements on the matter, par for the course for much of this area in Inner Mongolia. Only a few "said to be's" dot the internet. It was cold as we trekked down seemingly endless stairs, and around the basin. After taking this photo, reaching the end, the sun finally appeared as if to welcome us there. Entry with a small cart up was cheap enough for the experience, totaling about 100 RMB, or $15 USD. Erguna was a branching off point to head to the larger city of Manzhouli, or further east. The city itself was quite interesting, to me. Definitely worth a stop. So ended our first day in Inner Mongolia. #innermongolia #erguna #wetlands (at Ergun)

[theworldunderground]

Dinner in Erguna, Inner Mongolia. Lamb ribs, perfectly tender, crispy on the outside, served with a deep red sour sauce, and spices for dipping. Not pictured, a gigantic bowl of freshly made soup noodles. I must say, many of the articles I could find on the area mentioned an abundance of meat as if it'd be the only option. In almost every case, we did not find this to be the true. Having a Mandarin speaker by my side was so crucial to that, though. This was an amazing first proper meal. I've had this type (and the spit roast leg) in China many times, and these surpassed all of them. We paired it with Russian beer, and ended up seeking that particular brand for the rest of the trip, and it was easily found in all the shops. Such a solid start to this trip, much thanks to our hotel's owner. #innermongolia #erguna #erguncity (at Ergun)

[theworldunderground]

Inner Mongolia. Promises of vast green fields. A Big Sky Country in North Asia. I finally pulled the trigger, after years of living so close. Only having five days, we nixed the large cities, focusing on a small town circle around the Hulunbuir grasslands. A town per day, with two hour treks between. Exiting Hailar immediately, and straight to Erguna, a launching point to either side. First order of business, proper Mongolian milk tea. On a tip, we went to an old school sausage and tea shop. She mixed butter, milk fat, beef, millet into the pot, letting it brown before pouring the base. Spectacular. I'll be alternating between people, places, and what we ate in the days to come. #innermongolia #erguna #food (at Ergun)