Genhe, a City Known as the ‘Pole of Cold’ with Extreme Winters

Genhe, formerly known as Ergun Left Banner, is a city at the county level in the Hulunbuir Prefecture within the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in China.

Genhe is surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Additionally, the region is known for its vast grasslands, dense forests, and mountain ranges.

The city encompasses an area of 7,590 mi² and had a recorded population of 130,722 as of 2019.

Genhe is administratively structured into 4 subdistricts and 4 towns.

Located in this area are residences for several distinct ethnic groups, among them the Ewenki people.

Genhe is well-known for its captivating winter phenomenon, characterized by a magical transformation of the landscape. This change involves the terrain being adorned with a pristine blanket of snow, generating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.

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Indigenous Ethnic Group: The Ewenki People

The Ewenki historically lived around Genhe, deeply connected to the Greater Khingan Mountains and Gen River landscapes.

Furthermore, they represent one of China’s 56 ethnic groups and embody a nomadic heritage.

Their traditional dwellings, known as chums or yurts, are portable and well-suited for a nomadic lifestyle. This enables the Ewenki people to move in harmony with the seasons and the availability of resources.

Additionally, they have traditionally relied on hunting, fishing, and reindeer herding for their livelihoods. For generations, the Ewenki people have centered their way of life around herding reindeer. These animals supply meat and milk, playing a vital role in Ewenki culture.

Moreover, the Ewenki use reindeer for transportation, and they craft tools, clothing, and other essentials from their antlers and hides.

In terms of clothing, the Ewenki people traditionally wear garments crafted from animal hides for insulation against harsh winter temperatures. The clothing, functional and adorned with intricate patterns, reflects the cultural aesthetics and beliefs of the Ewenki.

A Residence for Other Ethnic Groups

There are other indigenous ethnic groups, such as the Daur, Oroqen, and Han, that have unique traditions, languages, and customs that enrich the cultural fabric of Genhe.

The Daur people, known for their agricultural practices and vibrant festivals, have a long history of inhabiting the grasslands and river valleys of Inner Mongolia.

Similarly, the Oroqen, renowned for their hunting skills and intimate knowledge of the forest, have traditionally roamed the Greater Khingan Mountains, coexisting harmoniously with the natural environment.

The Han Chinese population, while not indigenous to the region, has also made significant contributions to the development and diversity of Genhe, bringing with them their own customs, cuisine, and traditions.

Subarctic Climate in Genhe

The city experiences a subarctic climate, marked by cold winters and short, warm summers.

Additionally, winter temperatures can plunge well below freezing, creating a stunning winter wonderland.

Moreover, it claims the coldest temperatures due to its elevation of 2,343 feet.

The recorded annual average temperature stands at -4.4 °C, with the lowest recorded temperature plummeting to -58 °C.

Notably, winters endure as lengthy, freezing periods with minimal precipitation.

Meanwhile, summers are brief and warm, experiencing higher temperatures briefly from June to August, ranging from 19 °C to 23 °C.

A Mesmerizing Winter Wonderland Phenomenon

The snow-cold winter phenomenon in Genhe, Inner Mongolia, transforms the landscape into a mesmerizing winter wonderland.

As temperatures plummet, a pristine blanket of snow covers the terrain, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.

Additionally, glistening white snow adorns the Greater Khingan Mountains and surrounding areas, creating breathtaking scenery with frozen rivers and lakes.

Furthermore, the trees, typically conifers, are blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of a postcard. Low temperatures often form intricate ice crystals on branches, adding delicate beauty to the winter landscape.

Despite the cold harshness, Genhe’s winter phenomenon offers a unique, enchanting spectacle for those appreciating snow-covered landscapes and nature’s resilience in extreme temperatures.

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Economy of the City

Genhe’s economy is closely tied to its natural resources, including forestry, agriculture, and animal husbandry.

Additionally, traditional activities such as hunting and fishing contribute significantly to the livelihoods of the local population.