Day 1
Dazhao Temple (大召寺)
Dazhao Temple is the largest and oldest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Hohhot, built during the Ming Dynasty (16th century). It is known for its silver Buddha statue, intricate murals, and traditional architecture.
How to Get There
By Taxi:
Most convenient option; about 10–15 minutes from the city center.
By Bus:
Routes 1, 2, 19, 58, 59, or 60 stop near the temple. Get off at Dazhao Temple Station.
Tickets and Costs
• Entry Fee: 35 RMB.
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM.
What to See
• Silver Buddha Statue: A remarkable representation of Sakyamuni.
• Murals: Stunning depictions of Buddhist stories.
• Traditional Courtyards: Admire the temple’s Ming-style architecture.
Tips
• Visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Wear respectful clothing (e.g., no shorts or sleeveless tops).
Inner Mongolia Museum (内蒙古博物院)
This modern museum highlights Inner Mongolia’s history, culture, and natural wonders. Exhibits include Mongolian nomadic traditions, dinosaur fossils, and displays of ethnic artifacts.
How to Get There
By Taxi:
Located in downtown Hohhot, approximately 10 minutes from most hotels.
By Bus:
Routes 3, 16, 26, or 59 stop at Inner Mongolia Museum Station.
Tickets and Costs
• Entry Fee: Free (passport required for registration).
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
What to See
• Dinosaur Fossils: From the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
• Ethnic Culture Exhibits: Displays of Mongolian yurts, traditional costumes, and herding tools.
• Silk Road History: Artifacts detailing Inner Mongolia’s role in trade routes.
Tips
• Allocate 2–3 hours for the museum.
• English captions are limited; consider hiring a guide or downloading a translation app.
Day 2
Mongolian Yurts and Hada Ceremony
Staying in a Mongolian yurt is a cultural highlight, offering a chance to experience nomadic life firsthand. The Hada ceremony is a traditional welcome involving the presentation of a white or blue silk scarf.
How to Get There
• Yurts are located in the Xilamuren Grasslands (approx. 1.5–2 hours from Hohhot).
Transport Options:
• Join a tour from Hohhot.
• Hire a private car or taxi.
Costs
• Yurt Stay: 200–500 RMB per night (basic to luxury options).
• Hada Ceremony: Usually included in tours or accommodation packages.
Tips
• Bring warm clothes as yurts can get chilly at night, even in summer.
• Ask locals about the symbolism of the Hada and its significance in Mongolian culture.
Xilamuren Grasslands (希拉穆仁草原)
Rolling steppes ideal for horseback riding and cultural experiences.
How to Get There
Location:
About 90 km northwest of Hohhot. Travel time is approximately 1.5–2 hours.
By Tour:
• Many local tour agencies and hotels in Hohhot offer day trips or overnight tours to Xilamuren.
• Prices range from 300–600 RMB per person, including transport, activities, and meals.
By Private Car or Taxi:
• Hire a taxi or private car for around 300–500 RMB round trip.
• Negotiate the price beforehand, and make sure the driver waits for you if it’s a day trip.
By Bus:
• Take a long-distance bus from Hohhot’s Xinhua Bus Station.
• Fare: 20–40 RMB one way.
• Note: This option is less common and requires some walking or arranging transport from the bus stop to the grasslands.
Entry Fee
30 RMB (varies by tour).
Highlights
Horseback riding, archery, and interactions with herders.
Bonfire Party (篝火晚会)
Evening bonfires are a Mongolian tradition and feature local singing, dancing, and cultural performances.
How to Participate
• Hosted in Xilamuren Grasslands and usually included in overnight yurt stays or tour packages.
Costs
• Often included in accommodation or tour fees. Standalone tickets range from 50–100 RMB.
Tips
• Dress warmly as evenings on the grasslands can be cold.
• Join in the dancing for a memorable experience!
Day 3
Huitengxile Grasslands (辉腾锡勒草原)
Known for lush wildflowers, hills, and wind turbines.
Location
About 110 km northeast of Hohhot. Travel time is approximately 2–2.5 hours.
Transport Options
By Tour:
• Tours to Huitengxile often include activities like horseback riding and village visits.
• Prices range from 350–700 RMB, depending on the inclusions.
By Private Car or Taxi:
• Hire a car for about 400–600 RMB round trip.
• A private car is the most flexible option, especially for groups.
By Bus:
• Take a bus from Hohhot to Zhuozi County (卓资县), then arrange local transport to the grasslands.
• Fare: 20–50 RMB for the bus, with additional costs for the local taxi (~50 RMB).
• This option requires more planning but is cost-effective.
Tickets and Costs
Entry Fee: 50 RMB.
Tips
Best Time to Visit:
• Summer (June to August) is the best time, as the grasslands are lush and green.
• Avoid visiting in winter, as the grasslands are barren and cold.
Duration:
• Day trips are possible but staying overnight in a Mongolian yurt offers a more immersive experience.
Book in Advance:
• Yurt stays and horseback riding are popular, so book ahead during peak seasons.
What to Bring:
• Warm clothing (nights can be chilly even in summer).
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun.
• Snacks and water, as options can be limited on the grasslands.
Resonant Sand Gorge (响沙湾)
Part of the Gobi Desert, this site is famous for sand that “sings” when walked on or slid down.
How to Get There
• Located near Baotou, about 2.5–3 hours from Hohhot.
• Join a tour or hire a private car.
Tickets and Costs
• Entry Fee: 120 RMB.
Optional activities:
• Sandboarding: 50–100 RMB.
• Camel Rides: 100 RMB.
Tips
• Bring sunglasses and sunscreen for the desert.
• Try sliding down the dunes to hear the singing sand!
Hohhot Night Markets
Hohhot’s night markets are lively hubs for street food and local snacks.
Where to Go
1. Saihan Night Market: Known for Mongolian lamb skewers and milk tea.
2. Dazhao Temple Night Market: Great for street snacks and souvenirs.
Tips
• Most stalls operate from 6:00 PM to midnight.
• Bring cash, as mobile payments may not always be accepted.
Day 4
Five Pagoda Temple (五塔寺)
A unique Buddhist temple featuring five Indian-style pagodas and over 1,500 carved Buddhist scriptures.
How to Get There
By Taxi:
10–15 minutes from downtown Hohhot.
By Bus:
Routes 1, 2, or 18 stop nearby.
Tickets and Costs
• Entry Fee: 35 RMB.
Tips
• Visit in the morning for quiet contemplation.
Saishang Old Street (塞上老街)
A historic street showcasing traditional Mongolian and Han architecture. It’s great for exploring shops, cafes, and local snacks.
How to Get There
• Easily walkable from Dazhao Temple.
Tips
• Try Mongolian milk tea or buy handcrafted souvenirs.
Attraction Details
All information is subject to change.