Mohe Border Port in Heilongjiang

Mohe Border Port (漠河口岸) is located in the northeastern part of Mohe City (漠河市), Heilongjiang Province (黑龙江省), and holds the distinction of being the northernmost national first-class border port in China. Situated along the Heilong River (黑龙江), it directly faces the town of Garingda (加林达) in Amur Province (阿穆尔州), Russia. The port is a vital hub for China’s trade with Russia and facilitates international passenger and freight transport. Its operations are seasonal, with water-based transport used during the ice-free period, and vehicle transport during the winter months when the river is frozen.

Overview of Mohe Border Port

Geographic Location

Mohe Border Port is strategically situated in the northernmost part of Heilongjiang Province, directly across the river from Garingda in Russia. The port serves as a crucial link for international trade, connecting China’s Heilong River shipping network with Russia’s rail infrastructure. The proximity of Mohe Port to the Russian border makes it a key trade point for both countries.

The river segment here is ideal for docking large ships of up to 1,000 tons, facilitating the movement of goods between the two countries. The port is easily accessible via a three-level highway system that connects to the Heimo Highway (黑漠公路), linking the port to nearby cities and towns. Mohe City is located 183 kilometers away, while the nearest train station, Changying Station (长缨火车站), is 100 kilometers from the port.

Historical Background

The port’s history dates back to the Qing Dynasty, when gold mining activities were established in the region. The name “Mohe” is derived from the river, which was known as “Mohe” (墨河) due to the color of the water. This area became a major border town, and the Mohe Border Port was officially opened in 1989 as a national first-class port. In 1993, the port was confirmed as an international cargo and passenger transportation hub by both the Chinese and Russian governments.

Infrastructure and Facilities

Mohe Border Port is equipped with comprehensive facilities to handle both cargo and passenger traffic. The port spans around 10,000 square meters and includes inspection units, offices, and operational areas. The port operates seasonally, with waterway transport for shipping during the ice-free months and vehicle transport across the frozen river during winter. The port is strategically located on the Heimo Highway (黑漠公路) and offers seamless access to both the local road network and the rail network connecting China with Russia.

Key Infrastructure:

  • Inspection Facilities: The port has dedicated inspection units and infrastructure to manage both international cargo and passenger transport.

  • Transportation Network: The port is well connected to the surrounding areas via a three-level highway system. The nearest railway station is Changying Station (长缨火车站), located 100 kilometers away.

Climate and Natural Wonders

The Midnight Sun and Northern Lights

Mohe is famous for its stunning natural phenomena, including the “Midnight Sun” (白夜) and the “Northern Lights” (极光). During the summer solstice, Mohe experiences very long days, with only a brief period of twilight at midnight. The “white nights” occur around the summer solstice when the sky remains illuminated for most of the night, creating a magical atmosphere. This phenomenon attracts many visitors who come to the Heilong River to experience the beauty of the endless daylight.

In winter, Mohe becomes a prime location to witness the Northern Lights, with vibrant colors lighting up the northern sky. The display is dynamic, beginning as a small light and growing in intensity before gradually fading away. The combination of snow and the Northern Lights offers a unique and mesmerizing sight.

Climate

Mohe experiences a subarctic climate, with cold, long winters and short, warm summers. The annual average temperature is -5.5°C, and the region experiences an extended period of sub-zero temperatures. The frost-free period is relatively short, lasting about 86 days annually. Winter temperatures can plunge to as low as -52.3°C, while summer temperatures can peak at 36.3°C.

Key climatic features include:

  • Average annual temperature: -5.5°C

  • Winter temperatures: Can reach as low as -52.3°C

  • Summer temperatures: Can rise to 36.3°C

  • Average frost-free period: 86 days

Transportation

Mohe Airport (漠河古莲机场)

Mohe Airport holds the distinction of being the northernmost civilian airport in China. Located 893 kilometers from Harbin Airport (哈尔滨机场), it serves as an essential transportation hub for this remote region. The airport began construction in 2006 and was completed in 2008 with a total investment of 236 million RMB. The airport’s runway is 2,200 meters long and 45 meters wide, capable of handling mid-sized aircraft.

Mohe Airport is equipped to handle approximately 120,000 passengers annually, providing essential connectivity for both locals and travelers to this northernmost region.

Key Features of Mohe Airport:

  • Runway length: 2,200 meters

  • Terminal area: 2,000 square meters

  • Annual passenger capacity: 120,000 passengers

  • Distance from Harbin Airport: 893 kilometers

The airport is critical for the region’s accessibility, facilitating the movement of goods and people between Mohe and other parts of China, as well as to international destinations.