Hohhot and Inner Mongolia Trousit Visiting Guide and Practical Travel Information



Summary on Hohhot and Inner Mongolia Tour Index Information

Summary
Hohhot, the "Green City" capital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, serves as the gateway to China's vast northern frontier. Founded in 1581 by Altan Khan, descendant of Genghis Khan, this cultural crossroads blends Mongolian nomadic heritage with Han Chinese and Hui Muslim traditions. The region spans 1.18 million square kilometers featuring vast grasslands, deserts, volcanic landscapes, and historic sites. As China's "Dairy Capital" and a hub of Tibetan Buddhism, Hohhot offers authentic experiences including temple visits, grassland adventures, desert expeditions, and the legendary Naadam Festival. The city provides excellent connectivity via high-speed rail and international flights through the new Shengle International Airport, making it an ideal base for exploring the autonomous region..


Hohhot and Inner Mongolia Tourism Information Website and App

Practical and Comprehensive Information Websites for Travel Hohhot and Inner Mongolia

Authoritative General Information

Official Tourism Websites

Website Name

URL

Language

Description

Inner Mongolia Culture & Tourism Department

http://wlt.nmg.gov.cn

Chinese

Official government tourism portal

Go Inner Mongolia (Official)

http://www.goinnermongolia.com.cn

English/Chinese

Official regional tourism promotion site

Hohhot Municipal Government

http://www.huhhot.gov.cn

Chinese

City official portal

Inner Mongolia Museum

http://www.nmgbwy.com

Chinese

Official museum website

Hohhot Culture & Tourism Bureau

http://wlj.huhhot.gov.cn

Chinese

City tourism bureau

 Comprehensive Information Sources

China National Tourism Administration: http://en.mct.gov.cn/ - National-level tourism policies and guidelines

12306 China Railway: https://www.12306.cn/en/ - Official railway booking portal (English version available)

Category

Information

Time Zone

UTC+8 (China Standard Time)

Currency

Renminbi (RMB/CNY), symbol: ¥

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Type A/C/I plugs

Emergency Numbers

Police: 110, Fire: 119, Ambulance: 120

Tourism Complaint Hotline

12301 (nationwide, English-speaking operators available)

Official Mini-Program

"i游内蒙古" (iTour Inner Mongolia) — available via WeChat

Major Tourist Cities (by Foreign Visitor Frequency)

City

Key Attractions

Hohhot

Temples, museums, grassland gateway, dairy culture

Hulunbuir

World-renowned grasslands, Russian border, Manzhouli

Ordos

Genghis Khan Mausoleum, Resonant Sand Bay desert, modern architecture

Baotou

Wudangzhao Monastery, grasslands, rare earth industry

Ulanqab

Volcanic landscapes, Huitengxile Grassland, winter Naadam

Xilingol League

Horse culture, vast prairies, Naadam Festival

Alxa League

Badain Jaran Desert, rock art, Populus Euphratica Forest

Chifeng

Hongshan culture, stone forest landscapes, Hexigten Geopark

Tongliao

Horqin Grassland, Mongolian folk customs

Manzhouli

Russian-Chinese border, Matryoshka Square, European architecture

Top 5 Most-Visited Attractions by Foreign Travelers

Attraction

Nearest City

Official Link

Inner Mongolia Museum

Hohhot

http://www.nmgbwy.com (Chinese)

Dazhao Temple (Silver Buddha Temple)

Hohhot

No official English website

Genghis Khan Mausoleum

Ordos

genghiskhanmausoleum.com (Chinese/English)

Xilamuren Grassland

Hohhot

Managed by local bureaus (Chinese)

Resonant Sand Bay (Xiangshawan)

Ordos

http://www.xiangshawan.com (Chinese)

 Hohhot and Innermongolia Transportation

Air Travel

Hohhot Shengle International Airport (HET) — PRIMARY AIRPORT


Feature

Details

Status

Opened November 27, 2025; 4F certification achieved March 10, 2026

Location

Helingeer County, ~38.5km south of downtown Hohhot

Classification

4F (highest level, can handle Airbus A380 and Boeing 747)

Terminal

325,000㎡ terminal, 130 parking positions

Capacity

22 million passengers annually (initial), 28 million by 2030

Runways

Two parallel runways (3,800m × 60m and 3,400m × 45m)

Airlines

Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, Tianjin Airlines, etc.

International & Regional Connections:
Hong Kong: Direct flights operated by Greater Bay Airlines, 4x weekly
Major Domestic: Guangzhou (8 daily), Shenzhen (5-6 daily), Shanghai/Nanjing (8-9 daily), Hangzhou (5 daily), Chengdu (6-7 daily), Chongqing (4 daily)
Intra-Regional: Daily flights to Chifeng, Hulunbuir, Xilinhot, Tongliao, Ulanhot
Future Routes: Mongolia (Ulaanbaatar), Thailand (Bangkok), Vietnam (Nha Trang), Myanmar (Yangon), South Korea (Seoul/Busan — seasonal)

Airport Services for Foreign Travelers:


Service

Location

Notes

SIM Cards

China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom kiosks in Arrivals Hall

Passport required

Currency Exchange

Bank of China counter in International Arrivals

Open during flight arrivals

ATMs

Multiple 24-hour ATMs

Accept Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay

Internet/Wi-Fi

Free airport Wi-Fi

Requires SMS verification (Chinese phone number)

Tourist Information

Service desk in arrivals hall

Limited English

Duty-Free Shop

International Departures

Cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, local specialties

Airport to City Transport:


Mode

Duration

Cost

Notes

Metro Line 1

20-25 min

¥4-6

Connects to downtown

Airport Shuttle Bus

40 min

¥15

To major hotels/districts

Taxi

30-40 min

¥60-80

Flag fall ¥8, ¥2/km

DiDi (Ride-hailing)

30-40 min

Similar to taxi

English interface available

Note: Hohhot Baita International Airport closed permanently on November 27, 2025. All operations transferred to Shengle International Airport.

Airport Official Website

Railway Travel

Major Railway Stations:


Station

Type

Location

Metro Connection

Key Routes

Hohhot East

High-speed/Conventional

Wantong Rd, Xincheng District

Line 1 & Line 2

Beijing (2-2.5 hrs), Baotou (1-1.5 hrs), Ordos (1.5-2 hrs), Ulanqab (0.5-1 hr)

Hohhot Railway Station

High-speed/Conventional

No.41 Chezhan East St, Xincheng District

Line 2

Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Baotou, Ordos

Beijing-Hohhot High-Speed Rail:
Duration: 2-3.5 hours
Frequency: 45+ pairs daily
Fare: Second Class ¥189-221; First Class ¥294-355; Business Class ¥565-665
Key Rail Developments (2026):
Baotou-Yinchuan High-Speed Railway: Fully operational since December 24, 2025. 519km, 250km/h, 13 stations. Baotou to Yinchuan in 2 hours 38 minutes.
2026 New Timetable (effective Jan 26, 2026): Hohhot to Yinchuan (fastest 3h 34m), Hohhot to Lanzhou West (6h 27m), Hohhot to Xining (7h 45m)
Baotou-Ordos-Yulin High-Speed Railway: Under construction, slated for 2028 completion — Inner Mongolia's first 350 km/h line
Booking: 12306.cn/en (Official, English/Chinese) or Trip.com (English)

Long-Distance Bus

Hohhot Long-Distance Bus Station (adjacent to Hohhot Railway Station) serves destinations across Inner Mongolia. Tickets available at station counters or via WeChat mini-programs. Routes cover grassland resorts, desert areas, and nearby cities.

Urban Public Transportation

Metro (Hohhot):


Feature

Details

Lines

Line 1 (red) & Line 2 (blue)

Operating Hours

6:00 — 22:00 (peak: 15:00-20:00, 6-min intervals; off-peak: 8-10 min)

Fare

Starting ¥2, distance-based pricing

Payment

Alipay, WeChat QR, transport card, or ticket machines

Language Support

Chinese, Mongolian, English

Other City Transport:


Mode

Description

Cost

Bus

Extensive network, signs primarily in Chinese

¥1-2

Taxi

Metered, widely available; most drivers speak limited English

Base fare ¥8 + ¥2/km

Ride-hailing (DiDi)

English interface available; connect international credit card

Similar to taxis

Bike-sharing

Hellobike, Meituan Bike

¥1-2 per 30 min

Note: Bike-sharing registration requires Chinese phone number or Alipay account

Hohhot and Innermongolia Food & Dining Guide

In general, you can make a reservation via "Dianping" app, download in mobile store.

  Cuisine Overview

Inner Mongolian cuisine reflects centuries of nomadic life: hearty, meat-and-dairy-rich, and deeply flavorful. Lamb and beef dominate, prepared through roasting, boiling, or hot pot. Dairy products include milk tea, yogurt, and various cheeses. Hohhot's unique position blends Mongolian grassland flavors with Hui Muslim halal cuisine and Han Chinese influences. The city is famous for shaomai (steamed lamb dumplings), roasted whole lamb, and hand-grabbed mutton. Local dairy giant Yili originated here, making dairy snacks widely available. The Muslim Quarter offers exceptional halal street food. Meals tend to be hearty, salty, and mildly spiced — ideal for refueling after grassland adventures.

Signature Dishes

Dish

Chinese Name

Description

Price Range

Hand-Grabbed Mutton

手扒肉

Lamb boiled simply without salt, dipped in wild chive flower sauce — traditional nomadic style

¥60-120/person

Roasted Whole Lamb

烤全羊

Ceremonial whole lamb roasted until golden, crispy skin, tender meat — festive centerpiece

¥800-1,500 (whole)

Shaomai

烧麦

Steamed lamb dumplings with green onions — Hohhot specialty since the 1930s

¥15-30/basket

Mongolian Hot Pot

涮羊肉

Thin-sliced lamb in savory broth

¥80-150/person

Milk Tea (Suutei Tsai)

蒙古奶茶

Salty tea made with brick tea, milk, and butter — daily staple

¥5-15/cup

Youmian (Oat Noodles)

莜面

Oat noodles with lamb broth or sauce

¥20-40

Lamb Skewers

羊肉串

Grilled cumin lamb, street food favorite

¥5-10/skewer

Stone-Grilled Lamb Leg

石头烤羊腿

Roasted on heated basalt — crispy exterior, juicy interior

¥100-200

Yogurt-Fried Millet

酸奶炒米

Chilled yogurt stir-fried with toasted millet — refreshing

¥15-30

Fermented Mare's Milk (Airag)

马奶酒

Lightly alcoholic traditional drink, slightly sour and effervescent

¥30-100

Food Streets & Night Markets

Name

Location

Specialty

Hours

Kuan Alley Food Street

Muslim Quarter, Huimin District

Halal snacks, shaomai, lamb skewers, spices

6:00-22:00

Saishang Old Street

Dazhao Temple area, Yuquan District

Traditional snacks, dairy products, souvenirs, street eats

9:00-21:00

Xinhua Square Food Area

Xinhua District

Mixed cuisine, night market

17:00-24:00

Ordos Spark Night Market

Ordos — Kangbashi District

30+ stalls, live craftsmanship, bonfire nights (Friday 21:00). Summer: 18:00-00:30; Winter: 17:00-23:00

 

Camel Night Market

Ordos

China's first camel-themed night market — camel skewers, yogurt pancakes, immersive desert atmosphere

 

Restaurants by Category

Category

Description

Avg. Cost/Person

Booking

Luxury/Specialty

High-end Mongolian feast restaurants, 5-star hotel dining (Shangri-La, Mövenpick)

¥200-500

Trip.com, hotel website, direct call

Mid-Range

Local chain restaurants, Mongolian hot pot, reliable quality

¥80-150

Meituan, Dianping, Trip.com

Fast Food/Snacks

Local noodle bowls, shaomai shops, street food stalls

¥20-50

Walk-in, cash/QR code

Traditional

Authentic Mongolian yurt dining on grasslands

¥150-300

Meituan, Dianping, book through agencies

Bars/Cafes

Modern cafes in Xincheng District; local pubs; international chains (Starbucks, Luckin)

¥40-100

Dianping, walk-in

Booking Apps:
Trip.com: trip.com — English interface, foreign credit cards accepted
Meituan (美团): meituan.com — Chinese interface, better discounts
Dianping (大众点评): dianping.com — Chinese interface, restaurant reviews and reservations

Payment Notes: Most local restaurants accept WeChat Pay or Alipay. Foreign credit cards accepted at hotel restaurants and major chains. Carry cash for street food and small local eateries. Tipping is not practiced in China.

 

Major Attractions & Scenic Spots

Most of scenic spots, you can buy tickets via Wechat mini app, just search the scenic spot name, as well as in Trip.com app or website

Top 15 Most-Visited Attractions by Foreign Travelers

Attraction

Nearest City

Official Website

Inner Mongolia Museum

Hohhot

nmgbwy.com (Chinese)

Dazhao Temple (Silver Buddha Temple)

Hohhot

No official site

Genghis Khan Mausoleum

Ordos

genghiskhanmausoleum.com (Chinese/English)

Xilamuren Grassland

Hohhot

Managed by local bureaus (Chinese)

Resonant Sand Bay (Xiangshawan)

Ordos

xiangshawan.com (Chinese)

Huitengxile Grassland (Huanghuagou)

Ulanqab

No official site

Hulunbuir Grassland

Hulunbuir

m.hlbe.gov.cn (Chinese)

Zhaojun Tomb (Green Tomb)

Hohhot

No official site

Wudangzhao Monastery

Baotou

No official site

Ulanhada Volcanic Geopark

Ulanqab

No official site

Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest

Alxa

No official site

Manzhouli National Gate

Hulunbuir

No official site

Morigele River

Hulunbuir

No official site

Badain Jaran Desert

Alxa

No official site

Arxan National Forest Park

Hinggan League

No official site

Detailed Attraction Guide

1. Inner Mongolia Museum (内蒙古博物院)
Location: Xinhua East Street, Xincheng District, Hohhot
Distance: 5km east of city center
Description: One of China's largest comprehensive museums, housed in a striking modern building covering 150,000 square meters. Collection of over 150,000 artifacts spans the region's history from dinosaurs to the Mongol Empire. Highlights include the world's largest dinosaur skeleton collection, Genghis Khan-era weaponry and armor, exquisite Mongolian costumes and jewelry, and the world's only complete woolly rhinoceros skeleton. The architecture resembles a flying eagle. English signage is limited but improving. Plan 2-3 hours.
Transportation: Metro Line 1 to Museum Station; Bus 2, 3, 16, 23, 27, 53, 59, 66, 72, 75, 89, 92, 95, 97, 102
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes from city center
Frequency: Buses every 5-10 minutes
Fare: ¥1-2 (bus); Metro ¥2-6
Admission: Free (passport/ID required)
Booking: No advance booking for individuals; group booking: 0471-4614000
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:00), closed Mondays
Notes: Bring passport; no large bags inside; photography without flash permitted

2. Dazhao Temple (大召寺 / Ih Juu)
Location: Dazhao Qian Street, Yuquan District, Hohhot
Description: The oldest and most significant Tibetan Buddhist temple in Hohhot, founded in 1579 by Altan Khan. The main hall houses a magnificent 2.5-meter silver Buddha statue crafted from 3,000kg of silver — one of China's largest. Features traditional Tibetan architecture with Han Chinese influences, stunning murals, intricate wood carvings, and colorful prayer flags. The surrounding Saishang Old Street offers traditional crafts and snacks. Active religious site — respect worshippers.
Transportation: Metro Line 2 to Dazhao Temple Station; Bus 6, 38, 42, 58, 59, 209
Travel Time: 10-15 minutes from Hohhot Railway Station
Fare: ¥1-2
Admission: ¥35 (temple only); ¥50 (combined ticket with nearby attractions)
Booking: Purchase on-site
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00 (summer); 8:30-17:30 (winter)
Notes: Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); remove hats inside; photography restricted in some areas; walk clockwise around prayer wheels

3. Genghis Khan Mausoleum (成吉思汗陵)
Location: Ejin Horo Banner, Ordos City (200km from Hohhot)
Description: A grand ceremonial complex honoring the legendary Mongol conqueror (not his actual burial place, which remains unknown). Features three yurt-shaped halls containing relics, saddles, and weapons. The annual Genghis Khan Memorial Ceremony draws visitors worldwide. Daily rituals and cultural performances showcase Mongolian traditions. Magnificent traditional architecture set in a vast prairie landscape.
Transportation: High-speed rail to Ordos (1.5 hours), then bus/taxi (40 min, ¥100-150); or bus from Hohhot (3 hours, ¥100)
Admission: ¥120 (peak), ¥60 (off-peak)
Booking: Trip.com, Meituan, or on-site
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Notes: Dress respectfully; allow 3-4 hours; best visited May-September; respectful silence required during ceremonies

4. Xilamuren Grassland (希拉穆仁草原)
Location: Damao Banner, 90km north of Hohhot
Description: The most accessible grassland resort from Hohhot, offering authentic Mongolian nomadic culture within a two-hour drive. Located in the foothills of the Yinshan Mountains, featuring rolling green pastures, traditional yurts (gers), herds of horses and sheep. Activities include horseback riding, wrestling and archery demonstrations, evening bonfire parties with folk singing and dancing. Famous for "hand-grabbed mutton" feasts and welcoming ceremonies with hada (white silk scarves). Nearby Puhui Temple (built 1756) adds historical depth.
Transportation: Tour buses from Hohhot Xinhua Square; private car/taxi (¥300-400 round trip); organized tours
Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours by car; 2-2.5 hours by bus
Frequency: Daily tour buses during peak season (May-October)
Fare: ¥50-80 (bus); ¥300-400 (taxi round trip)
Admission: ¥80 (grassland entry); yurt accommodation ¥200-800/night; activities ¥100-300
Booking: Book through hotels, Trip.com, or local travel agencies
Best Season: June-September
Notes: Bring warm clothing even in summer (cold nights); sunscreen essential; book yurts in advance July-August; cash preferred for local vendors; bargain for horse riding

5. Resonant Sand Bay (Xiangshawan / 响沙湾)
Location: Dalad Banner, Ordos (180km from Hohhot)
Description: A spectacular desert park within the Kubuqi Desert. Famous for "singing sands" — sand dunes that produce resonant sounds when disturbed by wind or movement. Features camel riding, sandboarding, dune bashing, zip-lining over dunes, and luxury resort accommodations in the desert. A massive crescent-shaped sand dune offers stunning sunset views.
Transportation: Hohhot → Baotou by train (1.5 hours) → bus to Xiangshawan (1 hour); or direct bus from Hohhot (2.5 hours, ¥80); organized tours
Admission: ¥130 (peak), ¥80 (off-peak); activity packages ¥200-500
Booking: Trip.com, Ctrip, or on-site
Best Season: May-October
Notes: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and water; avoid July-August midday heat; wear sand-proof shoe covers

6. Huitengxile Grassland (辉腾锡勒草原 / Huanghuagou)
Location: Chahar Right Middle Banner, Ulanqab City, 100km east of Hohhot
Description: "Cold Mountain Slope" in Mongolian, sits at 1,800-2,100 meters elevation. Famous for 99 natural lakes dotting alpine meadows and a stunning wind farm with hundreds of turbines. Features unique volcanic rock formations and best-preserved alpine meadows in Inner Mongolia. Summer temperatures rarely exceed 25°C. Excellent hiking trails, horse riding through wildflower-covered pastures, and rare bird spotting. Nearby Yellow Flower Valley bursts with golden blooms in July.
Transportation: High-speed train to Ulanqab (40 min, ¥60), then taxi (1 hour total, ¥80); private car recommended
Admission: ¥90 (Yellow Flower Valley); ¥50-100 (varies by section)
Booking: Trip.com or local agencies
Best Season: June-September
Notes: Essential to bring warm layers and rain gear; altitude may affect some visitors; limited medical facilities

7. Zhaojun Tomb (昭君墓 / Green Tomb)
Location: 9km south of Hohhot, Yuquan District
Description: Commemorates Wang Zhaojun, one of ancient China's "Four Great Beauties," sent to marry a Xiongnu chieftain in 33 BC. The 33-meter earthen mound covered in green grass symbolizes ethnic harmony. Features a museum detailing her life and the Han-Xiongnu relationship, traditional Chinese gardens with pagodas and pavilions, and panoramic countryside views.
Transportation: Bus 6, 27, 44, 53, 76; taxi ¥20-30 from city center
Travel Time: 20-30 minutes
Fare: ¥1-2 (bus)
Admission: ¥50 (some sources cite ¥65)
Booking: Purchase on-site or Trip.com
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00
Notes: Combine with Dazhao Temple visit (same bus route); allow 1.5-2 hours; good for a morning stroll

8. Wudangzhao Monastery (五当召)
Location: Shiguai District, Baotou (70km from Baotou city)
Description: The largest and best-preserved Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Inner Mongolia, founded in 1749. Known as the "Little Potala Palace," it houses thousands of Buddhist scriptures and artifacts. The monastery complex climbs a mountain slope with white-walled buildings and golden roofs set against green mountains.
Transportation: Bus from Baotou Bus Station (1 hour, ¥20); 2 hours from Hohhot by car
Admission: ¥60
Best Season: May-October
Notes: Photography restrictions apply; allow 2-3 hours

9. Hulunbuir Grassland
Location: Surrounding Hulunbuir city, northeastern Inner Mongolia
Description: One of the world's three most pristine grasslands, stretching as far as the eye can see. Visitors stay in traditional yurts, ride Mongolian horses, and experience nomadic life firsthand. The area includes Ergun Wetlands, Manzhouli border city, and the famously winding Morigele River.
Transportation: Fly Hohhot → Hulunbuir (2 hours, ¥800-1,500, multiple daily); charter car to grassland (1-2 hours)
Admission: Free (grassland access); yurt stays ¥200-600/night; horseback riding ¥100-300/hour
Booking: Trip.com for flights and accommodation; local tour operators for grassland activities
Best Season: June-August
Notes: Pack warm layers (cold nights); insect repellent essential; chartered 4x4 recommended for remote areas

10. Five Pagoda Temple (五塔寺)
Location: 27 Wuta West Street, Yuquan District, Hohhot
Description: Unique diamond-shaped pagoda built in 1732 with Mongolian astronomical chart carved in stone. Tibetan-style stupa features five towers atop a square base. Walls bear 1,563 Buddha relief carvings and a rare Mongolian astronomical map showing constellations and planetary positions.
Transportation: Bus 1, 26, 27, 50, 53, 74, 76, 81; 15 minutes from city center
Admission: ¥35
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00, closed Mondays

11. Xilitu Zhao (席力图召)
Location: Next to Dazhao Temple, Yuquan District, Hohhot
Description: Active Tibetan Buddhist monastery founded in 1694, known for beautiful architecture and living religious community. Main hall features elaborate thangka paintings and Buddhist statues. Visitors can observe monks conducting daily prayers and rituals.
Admission: ¥30 (or combined ticket with Dazhao)
Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00

12. Hohhot Great Mosque (清真大寺)
Location: Tongdao South Street, Huimin District, Hohhot
Description: Built in 1693 during the Qing Dynasty, one of China's oldest and largest mosques. Architecture blends traditional Chinese and Islamic styles with green-tiled roofs and ornate wood carvings. Surrounding Muslim Quarter offers excellent halal food and the lively Kuan Alley market.
Admission: Free
Notes: Non-Muslims welcome outside prayer times; dress modestly

13. Ulan Suhai (Wuliangsuhai / 乌梁素海)
Location: Bayannur
Description: Known as the "Pearl beyond the Great Wall," this vast wetland lake is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially for rare swan and crane species. Boat tours available.
Transportation: High-speed train to Bayannur, then car (1.5 hours)
Admission: ~¥80 (boat tour)
Notes: Bring binoculars

14. Saihan Tal Grassland Park (赛汗塔拉城中草原)
Location: Within Hohhot city (Urban Grassland)
Description: Unique "grassland in the city" park covering 200+ hectares. Features walking trails, horse riding, yurt restaurants, and wetland areas. Offers a convenient grassland experience without leaving the city.
Admission: Free
Transportation: Bus 5, 10, 35, 54; Metro Line 1

15. Daqing Mountain (大青山)
Location: Northern suburbs, 10km from city center
Description: Scenic mountain range offering hiking trails, Buddhist temples, and panoramic views of Hohhot. Features ancient rock carvings and is popular for weekend excursions. Several scenic spots including Wusutu Zhao temple.
Transportation: Bus 63, 87; taxi ¥30-40

Admission: ¥25-40 (varies by section)


Website and Information of Accommodation and Hotels in Heifei and Anhui

Luxury Hotels (5-Star)

Hotel Name

City

Price/Night (¥)

Features

Booking

Shangri-La Hotel Hohhot

Hohhot

800-1,500

International standard, multiple restaurants, pool, spa, city views, English-speaking staff

Trip.com / Shangri-La.com

Crowne Plaza Hohhot

Hohhot

600-900

IHG brand, near Inner Mongolia Museum, business facilities

Trip.com / IHG.com

Sofitel Hohhot

Hohhot

700-1,100

French elegance, near Qingcheng Park

Trip.com / Accor.com

Kempinski Hotel Hohhot

Hohhot

650-1,000

European luxury, central business district

Trip.com / Kempinski.com

Radisson Blu Hohhot

Hohhot

500-800

Modern rooms, reliable Western breakfast

Trip.com / Radisson.com

Sheraton Hohhot

Hohhot

700-1,300

Marriott brand, Western amenities, business facilities

Marriott.com

Ordos Kingdom Hotel

Ordos

600-1,200

Desert resort-style, spa facilities

Trip.com

Hulunbuir Hotel

Hulunbuir

500-900

Grassland views, traditional decor

Trip.com

Mid-Range Hotels (3-4 Star)

Hotel Name

City

Price/Night (¥)

Features

Booking

Holiday Inn Hohhot

Hohhot

400-700

International brand, consistent quality, English-speaking staff

IHG.com

Hohhot Hotel

Hohhot

350-600

Historic hotel, renovated, central location

Trip.com

Novotel Hohhot

Hohhot

400-600

Accor mid-range, reliable for foreigners

Accor.com

Mercure Hohhot

Hohhot

350-550

French mid-range brand, comfortable

Accor.com

Atour Hotel (Hohhot Guandi)

Hohhot

350-500

Popular local chain, smart rooms, great tea lounge

Trip.com / Meituan

Ji Hotel (Hohhot Xinhua Square)

Hohhot

300-450

Minimalist design, good location

Trip.com / Meituan

Orange Hotel (Hohhot Dazhao)

Hohhot

280-400

Trendy design, walkable to Dazhao Temple

Trip.com / Meituan

Hampton by Hilton Hohhot

Hohhot

350-500

Hilton's mid-tier, good fitness center

Hilton.com

Vienna Hotel (Hohhot Station)

Hohhot

250-380

Standard business hotel near railway

Trip.com / Meituan

Jinjiang Inn (Hohhot Center)

Hohhot

200-300

Basic but clean, central location

Trip.com / Meituan

Baotou Tianwai Tian Hotel

Baotou

300-550

Reliable mid-range in Baotou

Trip.com

Ordos Jinjiang Hotel

Ordos

320-580

Comfortable mid-range in Ordos

Trip.com

Hulunbuir Derun Hotel

Hulunbuir

280-500

Good value in Hulunbuir

Trip.com

Ulanqab Jinshan Hotel

Ulanqab

250-480

Base for volcanic grassland tours

Trip.com

Manzhouli Friendship Hotel

Manzhouli

300-550

Near Russian border

Trip.com

Budget/Economy Hotels & Hostels

Hotel Name

City

Price/Night (¥)

Features

Booking

7 Days Inn (Hohhot various)

Hohhot

100-150

Ultra-budget, near universities

Trip.com / Meituan

Hanting Hotel (various)

Hohhot/Baotou

160-280

Budget chain, standardized rooms

Trip.com / Meituan

Home Inn (Hohhot East Station)

Hohhot

130-200

Reliable budget chain, near HSR

Trip.com / Meituan

GreenTree Inn (Hohhot Station)

Hohhot

120-180

Standard budget choice

Trip.com / Meituan

Super 8 (various)

Hohhot

120-200

International budget brand

Trip.com

Ibis Hotel Hohhot

Hohhot

200-350

International budget brand, basic amenities

Accor.com

Youth Hostels

University district

50-120/bed

Dorm beds, social atmosphere

Hostelworld

Pod Inn (Hohhot Center)

Hohhot

80-130

Capsule/pod style, very cheap

Meituan

Local Guesthouses

Near Dazhao Temple

100-200

Traditional courtyard style

Walk-in / Meituan

Grassland Yurt Homestays

Grassland areas

200-500

Authentic Mongolian experience

Book through agencies

Ordos Youth Hostel

Ordos

50-100

Budget base for desert tours

Walk-in

Hulunbuir Grassland B&B

Hulunbuir

180-350

Rustic grassland accommodation

Book through agencies

Booking Channels

Platform

URL

Language

Notes

Trip.com

trip.com

English

Best for foreign visitors; foreign credit cards accepted

Booking.com

booking.com

English

International standard; free cancellation options

Agoda

agoda.com

English

Good for Asian destinations

Meituan (美团)

meituan.com

Chinese

Better discounts; requires Chinese payment

Fliggy (飞猪)

fliggy.com

Chinese

Alibaba platform; good for flights + hotels

Foreigner-Friendly Note: Most mid-range and luxury hotels accept foreign passports; some economy hotels may require Chinese ID — confirm before booking. Prices listed are per room per night for standard double/twin; peak season (July-August) prices may increase 30-50%; off-peak discounts available.

Major Activities Leisures & Events

Annual Fixed Events & Festivals

Event Name

Date

Location

Description

Inner Mongolia Cultural Season

April 21 — September 30, 2026

Across Inner Mongolia

Nine thematic programs showcasing cultural diversity. Highlights include China (Hohhot) Performing Arts Trade Fair, "Impressions of Inner Mongolia" song and dance shows, exhibitions from Italy's Museo Egizio, and resident performances at Chilechuan Grassland and Genghis Khan Mausoleum.

Spring Flower Viewing Season

April 16 — June, 2026

Wusutu Apricot Blossom Valley, Hohhot

Celebrates apricot blossoms with cultural performances

Grassland Naadam Festival

July (annually)

Across Inner Mongolia

The premier Mongolian festival featuring the "Three Manly Games": wrestling, horse racing, and archery. Opening ceremonies with religious rituals, offerings, and processions in traditional costume. Hundreds of wrestlers compete in leather aprons; horse races cover 15-30km across open terrain ridden by child jockeys; archery uses traditional composite bows.

Hohhot International Horse Racing Festival

July-August (annually)

Hohhot

Professional horse racing meets traditional Mongolian equestrian culture. Features flat racing, steeplechase, and traditional horse shows. Horse trading fairs, equipment exhibitions, and riding opportunities.

Yellow River Cultural Festival

August (annually)

Ordos/Baotou

Cultural performances and events along the Yellow River

Winter Naadam (Ice & Snow Festival)

January — March, 2026

Xilingol, Ulanqab, Xilinhot

Camel racing, ice skating, snow sculpture exhibitions, and winter sports on frozen grasslands

Ejina Populus Euphratica Festival

October (annually)

Ejina Banner, Alxa

Celebrates the spectacular golden autumn colors of the desert poplar forest

Ice and Snow Festival

January-February (annually)

Hohhot

Winter celebration featuring ice sculptures, snow carving competitions, and traditional ice sports. Transforms parks into winter wonderlands with illuminated ice structures.

Year-Round Tourism Activities

Activity

Location

Description

Cost

Booking

Grassland Horseback Riding & Yurt Homestays

Xilamuren, Huitengxile, Hulunbuir

Experience authentic Mongolian hospitality in traditional yurts. Includes meals, horseback riding, and cultural performances.

¥200-800/night

Trip.com, local agencies

Desert Adventures

Resonant Sand Bay, Kubuqi Desert

Camel treks, sandboarding, jeep safaris, zip-lining. Overnight camping in desert yurts available.

Day trip ¥200-500; overnight ¥500-1,000

Trip.com, agencies

Boat Cruises

Laoniwan Yellow River Grand Canyon, Hohhot

1-2 hour scenic cruises along the Yellow River

¥80-150

Local tour operators or on-site

Horseback Riding

Most grassland resorts

Independent horse riding across the steppes

¥100-300/hour

On-site at grasslands

Regular Cultural & Entertainment Activities

Activity

Description

Cost

How to Book

Mongolian Song and Dance Performances

Evening shows featuring throat singing (khoomi), long songs (urtiin duu), and traditional dances at theater restaurants and hotel ballrooms

¥100-300 including dinner

Hotels or Trip.com

"Qian Gu Ma Song" (Eternal Ode to Horses)

Equestrian show at Chilechuan Grassland — daily performances

Check "i游内蒙古" mini-program

WeChat mini-program

Temple Ceremonies

Daily Buddhist rituals at Dazhao Temple and Xilitu Zhao. Morning prayers (6:00-8:00) and evening ceremonies

Temple entry fee only

Arrive early, observe silently

Saishang Old Street Evening Performances

Traditional music, shadow puppetry, and dance shows every weekend evening

Free or nominal fee

Walk-in

How Foreigners Can Participate: Most events are open to all visitors. Tickets via "i游内蒙古" WeChat mini-program (use translation tools), on-site counters (passport required), Trip.com, or hotel concierge assistance. Arrive 30 minutes early for major performances. Some venues require passport for ticket purchase. Many shows have Chinese narration only; check for English audio guides at museums.

Peak/Off-Peak Seasons, Holidays & Travel Advice

Seasonal Breakdown

Season

Months

Characteristics

Recommendation

Peak Season

June — August

Warm weather (15-30°C), lush green grasslands, all attractions open, highest prices, most crowded, Naadam Festival

Best for grasslands but book 2-3 months ahead

Shoulder Season

May, September — October

Mild temperatures (5-20°C), autumn colors (golden Populus euphratica), fewer crowds, moderate prices, grasslands still green/golden

Best value for foreign visitors

Low Season

November — March

Bitterly cold (-15 to 5°C), snow-covered landscapes, some grassland attractions closed, lowest prices, fewest tourists

Good for budget travel, winter Naadam, ice festivals

Regional Holidays & Festivals

Inner Mongolia celebrates both national Chinese holidays and unique regional festivals. Chinese national holidays include Spring Festival (late January/early February — travel surge, many business closures), Labor Day (May 1-5 — busy), and National Day (October 1-7 — extremely crowded, avoid if possible).
Region-specific celebrations include the Grassland Naadam Festival (July) — a centuries-old Mongolian tradition featuring wrestling, horse racing, and archery competitions. Winter Naadam (January-March) brings camel racing, ice skating, and snow sculpture exhibitions to the frozen grasslands. The Mongolian New Year (Tsagaan Sar, late January/February) involves family gatherings, traditional foods, and white food offerings. Spring Flower Viewing Season (April-May) celebrates apricot blossoms in Wusutu Valley with cultural performances.

Student Vacation Periods (2026)

Vacation

Typical Dates

Impact on Travel

Winter Vacation

Mid-January — late February

Domestic tourism high; book ahead

Spring Break

Early April (Qingming Festival week)

Short domestic travel surge

Summer Vacation

Early July — late August

Peak tourism season; highest prices; book 2-3 months ahead

Autumn Break

October 1-7 (National Day Golden Week)

Extremely crowded; avoid if possible

Travel Advice for Foreigners

Best Timing: For the best balance of cost and experience, visit in early June (grass is green, weather warm, pre-Naadam pricing) or early September (fewer crowds, cool weather, harvest season, stunning autumn landscapes). Late May also provides pleasant conditions before the July-August rush.
Avoid Crowds: Visit major attractions (Genghis Khan Mausoleum, Xiangshawan) on weekdays. Avoid traveling during Chinese National Day (October 1-7) and Spring Festival (late January/early February).
Time Your Visit Right: For green grasslands, go June-August. For winter activities (ice Naadam, snow viewing), go January-February. For autumn colors, go late September-October.

Budget Travelers: Visit November-March for lowest accommodation prices (50-70% off peak rates). Winter offers unique experiences without the crowds.

Travel Budget (RMB Only)

Daily Expense Breakdown (Per Person)

Expense Category

Budget Traveler (¥)

Mid-Range Traveler (¥)

Luxury Traveler (¥)

Accommodation (per night)

80-200

250-600

700-1,500

Meals (per day)

60-120

150-300

350-600

Local Transport (per day)

30-60

80-150

200-400

Attraction Tickets (per day)

50-100

150-300

300-500

Activities (per day)

0-80

100-250

300-800

Daily Total

¥220-560

¥730-1,600

¥1,850-3,800

4-Day Trip Budget (Excluding Arrival Transport)

Season

Budget Traveler

Mid-Range Traveler

Luxury Traveler

Peak (Jun-Aug)

¥1,400-2,200

¥3,200-5,000

¥7,500-12,000

Shoulder (May/Sep-Oct)

¥1,100-1,800

¥2,800-4,200

¥6,500-10,000

Off-Peak (Nov-Mar)

¥900-1,500

¥2,200-3,500

¥5,500-8,500

10-Day Trip Budget (Excluding Arrival Transport)

Season

Budget Traveler

Mid-Range Traveler

Luxury Traveler

Peak (Jun-Aug)

¥3,500-5,500

¥8,000-12,500

¥18,000-30,000

Shoulder (May/Sep-Oct)

¥2,800-4,500

¥7,000-10,500

¥16,000-25,000

Off-Peak (Nov-Mar)

¥2,200-3,800

¥5,500-8,800

¥13,000-22,000

Money-Saving Tips

Travel off-peak (November-March): Accommodation prices drop 50-70%; attractions less crowded
Use public transportation: Metro (¥2-6) and buses (¥1-2) instead of taxis
Eat local: Street food and small noodle shops (¥20-40/meal) instead of hotel restaurants
Book in advance: Use Trip.com for flight and hotel deals (15-30% savings)
Combine tickets: Some attractions offer multi-site packages
Stay in economy hotels or youth hostels (¥60-150/night)
Travel in groups: Share taxi costs, tour guide fees, and meal expenses
Use WeChat/Alipay: Many merchants offer digital coupons and discounts
Free attractions: Inner Mongolia Museum, Saihan Tal Urban Grassland, Great Mosque — free entry
Avoid Chinese holidays: Prices double during National Day (October 1-7) and Spring Festival
Take high-speed train instead of flying between Hohhot, Baotou, and Ordos
Book grassland day-trips via Meituan rather than hotel desks to avoid markups

Bargain at markets: Souvenirs and street food prices are negotiable

Classic Travel Itineraries

Itinerary 1: Hohhot Highlights (4 Days / 3 Nights)

Best for: First-time visitors, short stays, culture focus


Day

City

Activities

Transport

1

Hohhot

Arrival, Dazhao Temple & Xilitu Zhao, Saishang Old Street, Muslim Quarter dinner

Metro & Taxi

2

Hohhot

Inner Mongolia Museum (morning), Five Pagoda Temple, evening Mongolian performance

Metro & Bus

3

Hohhot

Xilamuren Grassland day trip (horse riding, yurt lunch, return evening)

Tour bus / Chartered car

4

Hohhot

Zhaojun Tomb, Great Mosque, departure

Metro & Taxi

Itinerary 2: Central Loop — Culture, Temples & Desert (5 Days / 4 Nights)

Best for: Comprehensive overview, history enthusiasts


Day

City

Activities

Intercity Transport

1

Hohhot

Arrival, Dazhao Temple, Saishang Old Street

2

Hohhot

Inner Mongolia Museum, Chilechuan Grassland half-day trip

3

Ordos

Travel to Ordos, Genghis Khan Mausoleum

HSR Hohhot→Ordos (1.5 hr, ¥120)

4

Ordos

Xiangshawan Desert activities (camel riding, sandboarding, sunset)

Chartered car

5

Hohhot

Return, departure

HSR Ordos→Hohhot (1.5 hr, ¥120)

Itinerary 3: Grasslands & Volcanoes (6 Days / 5 Nights)

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure seekers


Day

City

Activities

Intercity Transport

1

Hohhot

Arrival, city orientation

2

Ulanqab

Huitengxile Grassland (Huanghuagou) — flower meadows, wind farms

HSR Hohhot→Ulanqab (40 min, ¥60)

3

Ulanqab

Ulanhada Volcanic Geopark hiking

Chartered car

4

Hohhot

Return, Yili Health Valley, evening food street

HSR Ulanqab→Hohhot (40 min, ¥60)

5

Hohhot

Monishan Intangible Heritage Town

Bus + Taxi

6

Hohhot

Departure

Itinerary 4: Desert Adventure (4 Days / 3 Nights)

Best for: Adventure seekers, contrast landscapes


Day

City

Activities

Intercity Transport

1

Ordos

Arrival, Ordos Museum, Kangbashi New Area

HSR Hohhot→Ordos (1.5 hr, ¥120)

2

Ordos

Xiangshawan — camel riding, sand sliding, desert sunset

Chartered car

3

Ordos

Kubuqi Desert overnight camping (yurt experience)

Chartered car

4

Ordos

Return to Hohhot for departure

HSR Ordos→Hohhot (1.5 hr, ¥120)

Itinerary 5: Northern Frontier — Hulunbuir (7 Days / 6 Nights)

Best for: Deep grassland immersion, Russian border culture


Day

City

Activities

Intercity Transport

1

Hohhot→Hulunbuir

Fly to Hulunbuir, arrival

Flight Hohhot→Hulunbuir (2 hr, ¥800-1,500)

2

Hulunbuir Grassland

Grassland horseback riding, yurt stay

Chartered car

3

Hulunbuir Grassland

Nomadic family visit, traditional dairy making

Chartered car

4

Manzhouli

Drive to Russian border city, Matryoshka Square

Chartered car (3 hr)

5

Manzhouli

China-Russia border, shopping for Russian goods

Taxi/Walking

6

Hulunbuir

Return, Hulun Lake

Chartered car (4 hr)

7

Hulunbuir→Hohhot

Fly back to Hohhot for departure

Flight (2 hr)

Itinerary 6: Autumn Colors — Ejina Populus Euphratica (5 Days / 4 Nights, late September-October only)

Best for: photographers, nature enthusiasts, seasonal spectacle


Day

City

Activities

Intercity Transport

1

Hohhot→Alxa

Fly to Alxa, transfer to Ejina

Flight Hohhot→Alxa (1.5 hr)

2

Ejina

Populus Euphratica Forest — golden autumn landscape

Chartered car

3

Ejina

Heicheng Ruins, Guaizi Lake

Chartered car

4

Ejina

Juyan Lake, desert sunset

Chartered car

5

Ejina→Hohhot

Return to Hohhot for departure

Flight

Local Travel Agencies (Foreigner-Ready)

Top 5 Recommended Agencies

Agency Name

Year Founded

Services

Languages

Specialty

Contact

Zhongwang (Inner Mongolia) International Travel Service

Full-service inbound tours, custom itineraries, VIP access, cross-border tours

Chinese, English

Grassland, desert, cross-border tours; 5A certified; transparent pricing

400-858-8897

Inner Mongolia Blue Diamond Sheyue International Travel Service

2006

Multi-lingual guide teams, high-end custom tours, MICE, large-group receptions

English, Japanese, Korean, French

High-end custom tours, large corporate events; 98% satisfaction on OTAs

Book via OTA platforms

Inner Mongolia Huixiang International Travel Service

2018

Full-service ground handling, inbound tours, study tours, corporate events

Chinese, English

Grassland, desert, volcano routes, family tours; "no shopping" guarantee

Book via OTA platforms

Inner Mongolia CYTS International Travel Service

Standardized group tours, small-team sightseeing, classic routes

Chinese, limited English

Mass-market grassland tours; hassle-free packaged tours

Book via OTA platforms

Inner Mongolia Grassland Travel Service

Grassland tours, Naadam packages, nomadic homestays, seasonal activities

English, Mongolian

Authentic grassland access, nomadic culture expertise, own yurt camps

+86-471-628-1555

International Online Agencies

Agency

Website

Language

Specialty

China Highlights (Inner Mongolia Dept)

chinahighlights.com/inner-mongolia

English

Premium packages, 24/7 support, seamless logistics for Western tourists

Wild Great Wall Adventure

wildgreatwall.com

English

Off-the-beaten-path grassland hikes combined with Great Wall segments

Tibet Travel (Outer Mongolia Branch)

tibettravel.org

English

Overland tours connecting Inner Mongolia with Tibet

Mongolia Grassland Tours

mongoliagrasslandtours.com

English

Authentic nomad family visits, specialized foreigner services

Booking Notes:
Most local agencies do not maintain English websites but can be booked through Trip.com, Ctrip (携程), or via hotel concierge
Request written confirmation of "no shopping" policies
Confirm guide's English proficiency before booking
Prices vary significantly by season — book 2-4 weeks in advance for peak season (July-August)

For luxury bespoke tours, contact agencies directly for custom quotes.

Shopping Guide

Featured Products & Souvenirs

Product

Description

Origin

Where to Buy

Price Range (¥)

Cashmere Products

Sweaters, scarves, blankets; world-famous quality

Ordos, Hohhot

Ordos brand stores, department stores, Erdos Cashmere flagship

200-3,000

Mongolian Silver Jewelry

Traditional designs, turquoise inlay

Hohhot workshops

Saishang Old Street, museum gift shops

50-500

Horsehead Fiddle (Morin Khuur)

Traditional two-stringed instrument; miniatures available

Hohhot, Xilingol

Cultural shops, museum gift shops, specialty stores

50-500 (miniature); 200-2,000 (full)

Mongolian Costumes (Deel)

Robes, boots, hats; miniature or full-size

Across Inner Mongolia

Custom shops near Dazhao Temple, cultural markets

100-3,000

Dairy Products

Milk tea powder, cheese snacks, yogurt candies

Hohhot (Yili base), Galutu Town

Supermarkets, specialty food stores, airport shops

20-200

Felt Crafts

Rugs, wall hangings, yurt decorations, ornaments

Sonid, grassland workshops

Craft markets, grassland camps

30-500

Genghis Khan Memorabilia

Replicas, bronze statues, wall hangings, books

Regional

Museum shops, bookstores, Saishang Old Street

30-300

Mongolian Medicine

Traditional remedies, supplements

Regional

Pharmacy chains, specialty shops

50-300

Hada Scarves

White silk greeting scarves

Buddhist temples

Temple shops, Saishang Old Street

10-50

Leather Goods

Bags, belts, horse gear

Local tanneries

Muslim Quarter markets, craft shops

100-800

Agate Products

Stones, jewelry, carvings

Duolun

Specialty stone shops

100-5,000

Populus Euphratica Wood Carvings

Artistic carvings from desert poplar wood

Ejina

Ejina specialty shops

50-1,000

Fermented Mare's Milk (Airag)

Bottled traditional drink

Grassland areas

Specialty food stores, airport shops

30-100

Shopping Malls & Commercial Districts

Name

City

Features

Website

Saishang Old Street

Hohhot — Yuquan District

Historic street with souvenir shops, crafts, antiques, snacks, traditional snacks

N/A

Muslim Quarter / Kuan Alley

Hohhot — Huimin District

Halal food, spices, local products, street food

N/A

Hohhot Wanda Plaza

Hohhot — Saihan District

Modern mall, international brands, cinema, dining

wanda.cn (Chinese)

Hailiang Plaza

Hohhot — Xincheng District

Modern mall, international brands, cinema

N/A

Victoria Square

Hohhot — Xincheng District

Local department store, cashmere products

N/A

Ordos Kangbashi New Area Shopping Center

Ordos

Modern mall, luxury brands

N/A

Erdos Cashmere Flagship Store

Ordos

World-famous cashmere products direct from manufacturer

Ordos Official (Chinese)

Inner Mongolia International Convention Center Exhibition

Hohhot

Annual New Year Fair (Jan-Feb) with 700+ booths featuring intangible cultural heritage crafts

N/A

Hulunbuir Local Products Center

Hulunbuir

Grassland specialties, dairy products

N/A

Tax Refund & Duty-Free Policies

Tax Refund (VAT Refund) for Foreign Travelers:
Eligibility: Foreign visitors staying less than 183 days in China
Minimum Purchase: ¥500 per day at same Tax-Free store
Refund Rate: 11% of purchase price (minus 2% service fee → net ~9%)
Process:
Shop at stores displaying "Tax Free" sign
Request tax refund form (passport required)
At departure airport (Hohhot Shengle International Airport), present goods, receipts, passport, and boarding pass at Customs for stamp
Claim refund at designated bank counter
Airport: Tax refund counter located in International Departures area

Duty-Free Shopping:
Hohhot Shengle International Airport Duty-Free Shop (International Departures) — limited selection of cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, and local specialties
No duty-free shopping within city
Important Shopping Notes:
Bargaining expected at markets (Saishang Old Street, Muslim Quarter) — start at 50% of asking price
Fixed prices at department stores and malls
Authenticity certificates available for high-value items (jade, cashmere, silver)
Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at large stores and malls; smaller shops prefer WeChat Pay/Alipay or cash

Keep all receipts for tax refund and customs inspection

Pre-Departure Preparation

Climate Overview

Inner Mongolia has a continental monsoon climate with extreme seasonal variations. Summers (June-August) are warm to hot (15-30°C / 59-86°F) with occasional rain and cool nights. Winters (November-March) are bitterly cold (-15 to -5°C / 5-23°F) with dry, sunny days. Spring (March-May) brings strong winds and sandstorms. Autumn (September-November) offers crisp, clear days with temperatures 5-20°C. Annual precipitation is low (400mm), concentrated in July-August. The city sits at 1,065 meters elevation, causing rapid weather changes and strong UV exposure year-round. Grassland temperatures are 5-10°C cooler than the city, with cold nights even in summer. Desert regions (Alxa, Kubuqi) experience extreme temperature swings — hot days, cold nights.

Clothing Recommendations

Season

Essential Items

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Light layers, breathable fabrics, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+), light jacket for evenings, rain gear, insect repellent, water bottle

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Warm layers, windbreaker, light down jacket by November, comfortable walking shoes, scarf for dust

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Heavy down coat, thermal underwear, wool socks, gloves, scarf, hat, non-slip boots, lip balm, moisturizer (extremely dry air), hand warmers

Spring (Mar-May)

Windproof jacket, dust mask for sandstorms, layered clothing, moisturizer

Other Important Preparations

Altitude Considerations:
Hohhot elevation: ~1,050-1,065 meters (generally not problematic)
Grassland areas: 1,500-2,100 meters (minor altitude possible for sensitive individuals)
Symptoms: Mild shortness of breath, headache
Advice: Stay hydrated, avoid heavy first-day activities, consult doctor if heart conditions

Rainy Season:
When: July-August (monsoon season)
Impact: Sudden afternoon thunderstorms, grassland roads may become muddy
Preparation: Waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothing, sturdy shoes, compact umbrella

Health Preparations:
Vaccinations: Standard (hepatitis A/B, typhoid recommended for rural areas)
Medications: Bring personal prescriptions; anti-diarrheal medication recommended
Water: Drink bottled water only; avoid tap water and ice
Food: Street food is generally safe at busy stalls; avoid uncooked vegetables in rural areas
Air Quality: Spring (March-May) can have dust storms — wear a mask if sensitive

Documentation:
Passport (6+ months validity)
Chinese visa (required for most nationalities; L-tourist visa)
Travel insurance covering medical evacuation
Hotel confirmations and return flight tickets (may be checked at immigration)
Copy of passport stored separately

Money Matters:
Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB)
Credit Cards: Limited acceptance outside hotels; bring cash
ATMs: Available at airports, banks, major hotels; notify bank before travel
Mobile Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate; foreign cards increasingly accepted but setup can be complex
Carry ¥500-1,000 cash for small vendors and rural areas
Communication:
Internet: Free WiFi at hotels, cafes, airports (requires SMS verification)
VPN: Essential if you need Google, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp — download before arrival
SIM Card: Purchase at Hohhot Shengle Airport (China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom) — passport required. Local plans start at ¥50-100 for 10-20GB
Translation App: Download offline Chinese-English dictionary (Baidu Translate or Google Translate with VPN)

Language: English is not widely spoken outside hotels and tourist sites

Complaints & Emergency Assistance

Official Tourism Complaint Hotlines

Service

Phone Number

Languages

Notes

China National Tourism Complaints

12301

English (ask for English operator)

Nationwide 24-hour service

Inner Mongolia Tourism Complaints

0471-6961373

Chinese (limited English)

Business hours only

Hohhot Tourism Complaints

0471-12345

Chinese (ask for English)

Municipal hotline

Hohhot Citizen Service Hotline

12345

English-speaking operators available

May require short hold

Emergency Numbers

Service

Number

Notes

Police

110

Emergency only; English speakers sometimes available

Fire

119

Emergency only

Ambulance

120

Emergency only; Chinese operators

Traffic Accidents

122

Police traffic division

Comprehensive Emergency

112

Works on all phones

Foreigner Assistance

Service

Contact

Notes

Foreign Affairs Office — Inner Mongolia

0471-4864726

For consular assistance and foreigner emergencies

Entry-Exit Administration

0471-669-5118

Visa issues, 9:00-17:00

Tourist Police

110 (ask for English)

Major attractions have dedicated police posts

Hohhot Baita Airport Information

0471-4941222

Flight inquiries (note: airport closed Nov 2025)

China Railway Customer Service

12306

English option available

Directory Assistance (English)

108

International operator; may require calling from hotel

Additional Assistance

Hotel Concierge: Best first point of contact for English-speaking assistance

Lost Passport: Contact your country's embassy/consulate (see Task 16) and local police for a lost property report

Medical Services

Medical Services & Hospitals

Major Hospitals with International Medical Services

Hospital Name

Location

Specialties

Official Link

Inner Mongolia People's Hospital

Hohhot — Saihan District, No. 20 Zhaowuda Road

General medicine, emergency, cardiology, pediatrics; largest hospital in region; English-speaking staff in international wing; accepts international insurance

nmgrmyy.com (Chinese)

Inner Mongolia Medical University Affiliated Hospital

Hohhot — Xincheng District, No. 1 Tongdao North Street

Comprehensive tertiary care, international patient services, advanced medical technology, research focus, English-speaking doctors available

nmgyfy.com (Chinese)

Hohhot First Hospital

Hohhot — Yuquan District, No. 75 Nanchafang Street

Emergency medicine, general practice, 24/7 emergency department, experienced with foreign patients

Limited web presence

Inner Mongolia People's Hospital — Emergency: 0471-662-0000 / 0471-3283000. No dedicated International Medical Department, but the emergency room is equipped to handle foreign patients. English proficiency among medical staff is limited — bring a translator app or Chinese-speaking companion.
Inner Mongolia Medical University Affiliated Hospital — Emergency: 0471-663-0000 / 0471-3451234. The largest and most comprehensive hospital in the region. The International Outpatient Department offers assistance for foreign patients.

Healthcare System & Treatment Process for Foreigners

Emergency Care: Call 120 (Chinese operators; may not speak English). Hotel concierge can assist with translation.
Walk-in Visit: Go directly to hospital ER or outpatient registration desk with passport.
Registration: Pay registration fee (¥10-50) at counter — cash or WeChat/Alipay accepted.
Consultation: See doctor (consultation fee ¥20-100). English-speaking doctors may not be available — use translation app.
Payment: Most hospitals require upfront payment before treatment (cash, WeChat, Alipay; international credit cards rarely accepted). Keep all receipts for insurance claims.
Prescription: Pharmacies inside hospitals and citywide (Western and traditional Chinese medicine).

Emergency Medical Contact

Emergency Ambulance: 120
Pharmacies (药房, yàofáng): Abundant in cities; common medications available without prescription

Foreigner Medical Assistance Tips: For non-emergency medical needs, visit the International Outpatient Department at Inner Mongolia Medical University Affiliated Hospital. Always carry your passport and travel health insurance card. Most hospitals require payment before treatment — keep receipts for reimbursement. For serious conditions, consider traveling to Beijing (2.5 hours by high-speed rail) for international hospitals such as Beijing United Family Hospital (English-speaking). Register with your embassy upon arrival for consular medical assistance options. Learn basic Chinese medical phrases or download a translation app before seeking care.

Foreign Consulates & Embassies

Consulates in Hohhot

Currently, Mongolia is the only country with a consular presence in Hohhot.


Country

Consulate Name

Address

Phone

Consular Protection Hotline

Mongolia

Consulate General of Mongolia in Hohhot

Unit 5, Wulan Xiaoqu, Xincheng District, Hohhot (呼和浩特市新城区乌兰小区5号楼)

0479-7539200

0479-7539200 / 0479-7539201

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00-12:00 (visa/consular services by appointment)
Services: Visa issuance, passport renewal, notarial services, and consular protection for Mongolian citizens.

Embassies in Beijing (Nearest Full Diplomatic Missions)

For citizens of other countries, the nearest full embassies are in Beijing (approximately 480km/2.5 hours by high-speed rail from Hohhot).


Country

Address

Emergency Contact

United States

55 Anjialou Road, Chaoyang District

+86-10-8531-4000

United Kingdom

11 Guanghua Road, Chaoyang District

+86-10-5192-4000

Canada

19 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District

+86-10-5139-4000

Australia

21 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District

+86-10-5140-4111

Germany

17 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District

+86-10-8532-9000

France

60 Tianze Road, Chaoyang District

+86-10-8531-2000

Japan

1 Liangmahe South Road, Chaoyang District

+86-10-8531-9800

South Korea

20 Dongfangdonglu, Chaoyang District

+86-10-8531-0700

Russia

4 Dongzhimenbei Zhongjie, Dongcheng District

+86-10-6532-1381

Mongolia

2 Xiushui Beijie, Chaoyang District

+86-10-6532-1203

Emergency Consular Assistance:
China Global Emergency Call Center: +86-10-12308 (Ministry of Foreign Affairs consular protection hotline — English available, 24/7)
Local Support for Foreigners: Inner Mongolia Foreign Affairs Office (0471-4864726) — can assist with directing foreign nationals to appropriate consular contacts

Tourism Websites & Online Resources

Official Government Tourism Sites

Region

Official Tourism Website

Language

Link

Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region

Inner Mongolia Department of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.nmg.gov.cn

Hohhot City

Hohhot Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlj.huhhot.gov.cn

Baotou City

Baotou Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.baotou.gov.cn

Ordos City

Ordos Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.ordos.gov.cn

Hulunbuir City

Hulunbuir Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.hlbe.gov.cn

Ulanqab City

Ulanqab Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.wulanchabu.gov.cn

Xilingol League

Xilingol Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.xlgl.gov.cn

Alxa League

Alxa Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.als.gov.cn

Chifeng City

Chifeng Bureau of Culture and Tourism

Chinese

wlt.chifeng.gov.cn

Other Institutional Tourism Websites

Website

Purpose

Language

Link

China Daily — Inner Mongolia

News, cultural features, tourism info

English

innermongolia.chinadaily.com.cn

TravelChinaGuide — Inner Mongolia

Comprehensive travel guide

English

travelchinaguide.com/inner-mongolia

China Discovery — Inner Mongolia

Tours, attractions, food guides

English

chinadiscovery.com/inner-mongolia

Trip.com — Hohhot

Flight/hotel/attraction booking

English

trip.com/travel-guide/destination/hohhot

Booking Websites

Service

Platform

Language

Link

Flight Booking

Trip.com / Ctrip (携程)

English/Chinese

trip.com / ctrip.com

Train Booking

12306 (Official)

English/Chinese

12306.cn/en

Hotel Booking (International)

Trip.com / Agoda / Booking.com

English

trip.com / booking.com

Hotel Booking (Local)

Meituan (美团) / Fliggy (飞猪)

Chinese

meituan.com

Attraction Tickets

Trip.com / Meituan

English/Chinese

trip.com

Restaurant Booking & Reviews

Dianping (大众点评) / Meituan

Chinese

dianping.com

Ride-hailing

DiDi

English (app setting)

didiglobal.com

Official Practical Information & Tools

Tool/Resource

Purpose

Language

Access

"i游内蒙古" Mini-Program

All-in-one tourist info (attractions, tickets, routes, smart audio guide)

Chinese

WeChat — search mini-program

Inner Mongolia Foreign Affairs Office

Consular services, foreigner assistance

Chinese

wsb.nmg.gov.cn

Hohhot Shengle Airport

Flight info, airport services

Chinese

Airport website

China Railway 12306

Train schedules, booking

English/Chinese

12306.cn/en

Baidu Maps

Navigation (download offline maps)

Chinese

map.baidu.com

Note: English versions of official government tourism websites are extremely limited for Inner Mongolia. The "i游内蒙古" WeChat mini-program is the most comprehensive official resource — use translation features or browser translation tools.

Videos & Live Feeds

Official Tourism Promotion Videos

Video Title

Platform

Language

Link/Access

"Discover Inner Mongolia" Official Promo

YouTube

English

Search: "Discover Inner Mongolia Official"

"Beautiful Hohhot" City Promo

YouTube

English/Chinese

Search: "Beautiful Hohhot"

Inner Mongolia Cultural Season Promo (2026)

China Daily

English

innermongolia.chinadaily.com.cn

"锡林河" Flash Mob MV — Xilin River (2026 Official)

Xilingol Government Portal

Chinese

Xilingol government portal

Major Agency/Media Videos

Video Title

Platform

Language

Link/Access

Ulanqab Ice & Snow Naadam "Camel & Horse Competition" (2026)

CCTV / Various

Chinese

Search: "乌兰察布冰雪那达慕 驼马争霸"

Ejina River Valley Sunset

Worker.cn

Chinese

workercn.cn

Hasu Sea Winter Fishing

Worker.cn

Chinese

workercn.cn

Yellow River Zigzag — Jungar Banner Lantern Festival

Zhibolvyou

Chinese

zhibolvyou.com

Travel Vlogs & Documentaries (High Value for Foreigners)

Video Title

Platform

Language

Link/Access

Japanese Traveler's Inner Mongolia Food & Culture Experience

Bilibili / YouTube

Japanese with Chinese subtitles

bilibili.com

Japanese Traveler's Dream Grassland Scenery

Bilibili / YouTube

Japanese with Chinese subtitles

bilibili.com

Inner Mongolia Grassland & Desert Travel Vlogs

YouTube

English

Search: "Inner Mongolia travel vlog"

Hohhot City Guide Videos

TikTok / Instagram

English/Chinese

TikTok/Instagram (requires VPN)

Naadam Festival Documentary

YouTube

English

Search: "Naadam Festival Inner Mongolia documentary"

Live Feeds / Real-Time Video

Live Feed

Platform

Language

Link/Access

Hohhot Shengle Airport Flight Info Screens

Airport website

Chinese

Airport official site

Traffic Cameras — Hohhot City

Baidu Maps

Chinese

map.baidu.com (real-time traffic view)

Hulunbuir Grassland Real-time Live Cam (Summer)

YouTube

None

Search: "Hulunbuir grassland live stream"

Note on Access: YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and most Western social media platforms are blocked in mainland China. Access requires a VPN installed before departure. Bilibili is accessible within China without VPN.


If there are any changes or updates, please contact us for revisions.



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