Du'ermenqin Daur Ethnic Town in Fularji District, Qiqihar

Duermenqin Daur Township (杜尔门沁达斡尔族乡) is located in Fulaerji District (富拉尔基区), Qiqihar (齐齐哈尔市), Heilongjiang Province (黑龙江省), just 8 km from the urban center. Situated on the alluvial plain where the Nenjiang River (嫩江) meets the Kule River (库勒河), it is one of the key Daur ethnic settlements in the region.

The township’s name originates from the Daur word “Durubegle,” meaning “four houses,” reflecting its early settlement pattern dating back to the early Qing Dynasty. Today, it is a multi-ethnic community led by the Daur people (about 23% of the population), alongside Manchu, Mongolian, and Ewenki groups. With highlights such as Hanbodai Village (罕伯岱村), the Old Longtou Scenic Area (老龙头景区), and riverside wetlands, it offers a blend of ethnic traditions, pastoral scenery, and river culture—ideal for short trips near the city.

Ethnic Culture

Daur People (达斡尔族)

The Daur are an ancient ethnic group native to the Nenjiang River basin, historically known as part of the “Solon” tribes.

• Heritage: Skilled in horseback riding, farming, and fishing
• Settlement: Around 2,800 Daur residents live in the township, mainly in Hanbodai Village (罕伯岱村) and Duermenqin Village (杜尔门沁村)
• Cultural Preservation: Hanbodai Village is recognized as a provincial traditional village and a model for preserving Longjiang-style residences
• Language: Daur language (Mongolic branch, Altaic family), with Chinese widely used

Traditions & Lifestyle

Kumule Festival (库木勒节)

Held annually in May–June, this is one of the most important Daur festivals. “Kumule” refers to wild Artemisia (柳蒿芽), a symbolic survival food.

Festival highlights include:

• Traditional Hanbo Dance (罕伯舞) and Zandale folk songs (扎恩达勒)
• Horse racing, archery, wrestling, and field hockey
• Communal feasts featuring wild herb dishes

Traditional Housing

• “Jie”-shaped thatched houses (介字草房) with mud walls and grass roofs
• Interior features the “Manzi Kang” (蔓子炕), a heated platform bed surrounding three sides of the room

Customs & Beliefs

• Strong emphasis on respect for elders and hospitality etiquette
• Fishing and hunting taboos tied to nature worship
• Shamanistic traditions and reverence for river and mountain spirits

Folk Arts

• Hanbodai folk songs (national intangible cultural heritage)
• Birch bark and leather crafts with distinctive ethnic motifs

Local Cuisine

Must-Try Specialties

• Wild herb dishes (柳蒿芽炖排骨 / 鲶鱼): Slightly bitter, aromatic, and highly nutritious
• Millet-based staples (稷子米饭) and buckwheat foods (荞麦饸饹)
• Hand-grabbed meat (手把肉): Boiled beef or lamb with simple seasoning

River & Grassland Flavors

• Talahā grilled fish (塔拉哈)
• Stewed Nenjiang fish (江水炖江鱼)
• Dairy products such as milk skin and dried cheese
• Traditional salty milk tea

Top Attractions

Hanbodai Village & Old Longtou Scenic Area (罕伯岱村・老龙头景区)

The cultural core of the township, featuring:

• Daur Folk Museum and traditional residences
• Hands-on experiences with ethnic costumes, dances, and kang living
• Modern attractions like glass cabins, slides, and ATV rides

Nenjiang–Kule River Wetland Belt (嫩江-库勒河湿地)

• 3.7 km of Nenjiang riverside views
• Wetlands, grasslands, and fishing spots
• Ideal for birdwatching, camping, and photography

Qianduer Menqin Village (前杜尔门沁村)

A quiet traditional village where visitors can explore the origins of the “four houses” settlement and enjoy rural life.

Accommodation

Ethnic Homestays

Stay in Hanbodai Village in traditional Daur houses with kang beds and local meals.

Budget Inns

Available in Duermenqin and nearby villages

Fulaerji District Hotels

More comfortable options just 15 minutes away, suitable for travelers seeking modern amenities

Transportation

Getting There

• By Car: 30 minutes from downtown Qiqihar; 8 km from Fulaerji District via Fujing Road
• Public Transport: Rural buses from Fulaerji to Duermenqin or Hanbodai (limited frequency)

Local Travel

Attractions are close together—self-driving or walking is convenient; car hire is also available .

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

• May–June: Kumule Festival and wild herb season
• July–August: Lush wetlands and cool summer climate
• Winter: Experience traditional Daur New Year (Ane Festival 阿涅节) and snowy landscapes

Cultural Etiquette

• When visiting homes, sit on the south side of the kang (a sign of respect)
• Ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies

Packing Advice

• Spring/Summer: Windproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent
• Winter: Heavy thermal gear (-20°C to -30°C)

Suggested Itineraries

1-Day Tour

Hanbodai Village → Old Longtou Scenic Area → Nenjiang wetlands → Daur cuisine experience

2-Day Tour

Day 1: Duermenqin ethnic culture
Day 2: Fulaerji District (China First Heavy Industry tour 中国一重 + Hong’an Park 红岸公园)