The Poetry and Distant Horizons of the Grassland

Hohhot Chilechuan Grassland is an ecological grassland close to the city, offering both natural scenery and cultural experiences, making it perfect for short trips or in-depth travel. Here’s a detailed guide: --- ### **1. Basic Information** - **Location**: Baohao Town, Xincheng District, Hohhot, about 15 km from the city center (20-minute drive). - **Opening Hours**: Open year-round; summer (June–September) is the best time to visit, with lush greenery and ideal outdoor conditions. - **Admission**: Free. - **Recommended Visit Duration**: 3–5 hours (or a full day if participating in activities). --- ### **2. Transportation** - **By Car**: From downtown Hohhot, drive along Hohhot East Street for about 20 minutes. - **Public Transport**: Take the Chilechuan Grassland Sightseeing Line, which connects the city center to the core grassland area (affordable and convenient). - **Private/Shared Car**: Ideal for groups, with optional stops at nearby attractions like Hongshiya and Jiulongwan. --- ### **3. Highlights & Experiences** **(1) Chilechuan Grassland Core Area** - **Scenic Views**: Walk or cycle along the wooden boardwalks and immerse yourself in the poetic landscape of "wind-swept grass revealing cattle and sheep." - **Cultural Activities**: - Visit the Inner Mongolia Ethnic Cultural Sports Center to watch the *Ancient Horse Ode* equestrian show (check performance schedules in advance). - Try traditional Mongolian activities like horseback riding and archery (some require extra fees). **(2) Nearby Attractions** - **Hongshiya**: A 1-hour drive with stunning views, perfect for photography. - **Hasuhai Lake**: A wetland and lake landscape with boat tours, about 1 hour from Chilechuan Grassland. - **Chilechuan Starlight Lane**: A cultural and artistic complex with immersive performances, ideal for evening visits. --- ### **4. Seasonal Activities** - **Dragon Boat Festival (Late May–Early June)**: - Sunset concerts, horse races, camping parties, and bonfire gatherings. - **Summer Activities**: - Grassland hiking, horseback riding, and stargazing (stay in a stargazing yurt). - **Winter Activities**: - Ice and snow sports, folk culture experiences (e.g., Morin Khuur music town). --- ### **5. Accommodation** - **Stargazing Yurts**: Experience nomadic life under the stars (similar options in Xilamuren Grassland). - **Qingzi Yun Chuan Hotel, Xingbo Yao Zhang Homestay**: Well-equipped for families or couples. - **City Hotels**: Convenient for late returns, with easy access to next-day itineraries. --- ### **6. Food Recommendations** - **Grassland Flavors**: Hand-grabbed lamb, roasted whole lamb, milk tea, and dairy tofu (available at local herders’ homes or scenic restaurants). - **City Eats**: - Saishang Old Street: Local snacks and handicrafts. - Naobao Village: A trendy spot for Chilechuan specialties. --- ### **7. Travel Tips** - **Attire**: Sun protection in summer (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen); warm layers in winter. - **Eco-Friendly**: Avoid littering to protect the grassland ecosystem. - **Connectivity**: Weak signals in some areas—download offline maps in advance. --- ### **8. Suggested Itineraries (1–2 Days)** - **Day Trip**: City → Chilechuan Grassland (morning) → Hongshiya/Hasuhai Lake (afternoon) → Return. - **Two-Day Trip**: - **Day 1**: City → Chilechuan Grassland (activities + camping). - **Day 2**: Hasuhai Lake → Mongolian Culture Park → Departure. --- Chilechuan Grassland is easily accessible for independent or group travel. For longer stays, combine it with Xilamuren Grassland or Xiangshawan for a 5-day in-depth adventure.