Arxan history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the city of Arxan is inextricably linked to its unique natural treasures. The settlement's name originates from the Mongolian phrase "Halun Arshan," which translates as "hot holy spring." For a long time, this territory in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, part of China, served as a nomadic ground for Mongolian tribes who revered the local waters as sacred and healing.

The actual formation of a permanent urban-type settlement began in the first half of the 20th century. A key historical milestone was the construction of the railway station in 1937. The station building, erected during that period, has survived to this day and remains one of the city's most recognisable symbols.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of this remote area into a significant settlement was driven by several reasons:

• Geographical Location: The city is situated at the foot of the Greater Khingan mountain range, in a zone of extinct volcanoes. This predetermined the presence of geothermal resources.
• Transport Infrastructure: The arrival of the railway connected this isolated mountain district with the rest of the region, allowing for the active development of the territory.
• Resource Base: The vast forests surrounding Arxan became the foundation for the development of the timber industry, which was the city-forming sector for a long time.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the early stages, Arxan's economy was based primarily on forestry and railway maintenance. The city developed as a working settlement surrounded by wilderness.

The cultural identity was formed at the intersection of the traditions of the indigenous Mongolian population, engaged in cattle breeding, and new industrial trends. Even during the city's formative period, its recreational potential began to unfold: the springs were used not only for rituals but also for therapeutic and sanatorium purposes, laying the foundation for its future status as a resort city.

Development Chronology

The history of the transformation of a small settlement into the famous resort of Arxan includes several important stages related to the utilisation of natural wealth and infrastructure development in China.

• 1937: Completion of the railway station construction; the building is now recognised as a protected architectural monument.
• 1996: The State Council officially approved the establishment of Arxan as a county-level city, designating it as an independent administrative unit.
• 2000: Establishment of the National Forest Park, which marked the beginning of the large-scale development of eco-tourism in the region.
• 2004: The territory was granted the status of a National Geopark due to its unique volcanic landscapes and mineral springs.
• 2011: Commissioning of the Arxan Yi'ershi Airport, ensuring air connections with major metropolises.
• 2012: A total ban on commercial logging in the Greater Khingan mountains, finally reorienting the city's economy from timber to tourism.
• 2017: Inclusion of the Arxan Geopark in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, confirming the international value of local natural sites.
• 2019: Assignment of the highest 5A category to the Arxan-Chaihe Tourism Area in the national rating of tourist attractions.

Major Milestones in Urban Transformation

The path taken by Arxan reflects significant changes in approaches to nature management and urban planning. From a working settlement, the city has turned into a modern tourist centre that China takes pride in. Several fundamental transformations that defined the current look of the resort can be highlighted.

• Transition from Logging to Eco-tourism. Historically, the economy was built on timber extraction, but the complete ban on logging in the Greater Khingan mountains became a turning point. This decision forced the city to completely restructure its economic model, focusing on nature conservation and recreation.
• Gaining Administrative Independence. Obtaining the status of a county-level city allowed for the formation of its own budget and development plan, focused on improving the urban environment and creating comfortable conditions for guests.
• Integration into the Transport Network. The construction of the airport and the modernisation of railway connections brought the city out of isolation. Transport accessibility became a catalyst for the tourism boom, opening the resort to travellers from distant provinces.
• International Recognition of Natural Heritage. The inclusion of the local geopark in the global UNESCO network not only increased the city's prestige but also imposed obligations to protect unique volcanic landscapes, stimulating the development of scientific and cultural activities.
• Modernisation of Balneological Infrastructure. The renovation of historical sanatoriums and the construction of new spa complexes allowed for the effective use of geothermal resources, securing the city's reputation as the "Capital of Hot Springs."
• Formation of an All-Season Cluster. The creation of infrastructure for winter sports turned the city into a year-round resort, ensuring a stable flow of tourists and jobs regardless of the season.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of the city of Arxan represents a remarkable combination of early 20th-century historical heritage and modern resort development. Unlike the typical metropolises for which China is known, low-rise construction prevails here, harmoniously blended into the mountain landscape. The urban planning concept is subordinate to the idea of creating a cosy, "European" space amidst Asian forests, which is why the city is often called the "Eastern Switzerland."

Historical Eclecticism (1930s)

The most important and oldest architectural monument of the city is the railway station building, constructed in 1937. It set the tone for the entire subsequent development of the settlement.

• Style: Japanese modernism with elements of Alpine architecture.
• Features: The building is distinguished by a low roof with wide eaves, characteristic of mountain chalets, small windows, and the use of natural materials. The yellow walls and green roofs of the station have become the city's calling card.
• Significance: This structure is recognised as a protected cultural object and is considered one of the most beautiful small railway stations in the country.

Modern Resort Style (21st Century)

With the development of tourism in the 2000s, the city underwent a massive reconstruction. Modern architects decided not to destroy the historical atmosphere but to enhance it, choosing a stylisation of European classics and mountain resorts for new developments.

• Stylisation of European Romanticism: The central streets are lined with buildings featuring pitched roofs, turrets, and decorative facades. Here one can find elements referring to Baroque and Classicism, but in a simplified, modern interpretation.
• Colour Solutions: Colour is actively used in urban planning. House roofs are often painted in red, blue, or orange tones, creating a bright contrast with the green forests in summer and white snow in winter.
• Landscape Design: Wide squares, embankments, and park zones adorned with Mongolian-style sculptures have become an important part of the urban environment, adding local flavour to the general "European" appearance.

Legendary and Historical Figures

• Genghis Khan (Temüjin)
  Founder of the Mongol Empire
  According to local lore, the healing properties of the mineral springs of Arxan were discovered by Mongol warriors during campaigns. Legends state that Genghis Khan's troops stopped here to rest and treat wounds with the "sacred water," which laid the foundation for the area's fame long before the city appeared.
• Japanese Architects and Engineers (1930s)
  Builders of the Railway Station
  A group of specialists whose names remain in history as the collective author of the city's main symbol. The station building they designed in 1937 is a unique example of combining Eastern style and Alpine architecture, which is today a protected cultural heritage monument.

Modern Figures

• Xi Jinping
  President of the PRC
  His visit in 2014 became a key event in the resort's recent history. After inspecting the region, he called for an end to deforestation and a focus on eco-tourism. This visit gave a powerful impulse to infrastructure development and the transformation of an industrial settlement into a popular tourist centre that China is proud of.
• Guo Yongcai
  Forestry Industry Veteran, Local Resident
  He became a symbol of social change in the city. The former logger became famous after meeting the head of state, demonstrating a successful transition from hard labour in logging to a comfortable life in a renovated tourist city. His story personifies the transformation of the local population's way of life.
• Yu Jiujiang
  Entrepreneur, Former Forester
  One of the pioneers of private tourism in the region. After the ban on logging, he was the first among local residents to reorient towards the hospitality sector, opening a successful business. His example inspired many citizens to engage in preserving the nature of the Greater Khingan instead of exploiting it.