Chilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Zone

Historical Overview

The site’s heritage traces to the 6th-century Turkic Khaganate, with artifacts like bronze cauldrons and deer stones unearthed in 1980. The modern tourism zone was established in 2003, inspired by the “Song of Chile” poem describing “Heaven-like grasslands” and “wind-blown herds.” Key milestones include the 2010 completion of the 80-meter-diameter Golden Horse Yurt and the 2017 hosting of the International Mongolian Traditional Wrestling Tournament.

Structural Layout

The tourism zone is divided into three zones:

1. Nomadic Culture Core Zone: Features the Golden Horse Yurt, equestrian arena, and traditional ger (yurt) camps.
2. Steppe Landscape Zone: Includes 30km² of rolling meadows, lakes, and the poetic “Chile Nine Bends” wetland.
3. Arts & Crafts Zone: Offers workshops on Mongolian calligraphy, leather crafting, and throat singing.

Supporting facilities include a yurt-themed hotel, outdoor BBQ areas, and a nomadic museum.

Major Attractions

1. Golden Horse Yurt: The world’s largest traditional yurt (80m diameter), housing 1,500 artifacts, including a 12th-century silver saddle.
2. Equestrian Arena: Daily performances featuring horseback archery, “Ulan Muqam” singing, and camel herding displays.
3. Chile Nine Bends Wetland: A 5km² marshland with migratory birds and boardwalk trails.
4. Nomadic Museum: Displays 300+ nomadic tools, from felt-making looms to bronze cauldrons.
5. Throat Singing Pavilion: Interactive workshops on Khoomei (Mongolian throat singing).
6. Archery Range: Traditional Mongolian bow-and-arrow experiences with target practice.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Nomadic Tour (3–4 hours):
   Entrance → Golden Horse Yurt → Equestrian Arena → Nomadic Museum → Throat Singing Pavilion → Exit
   Highlights: Core culture and performances.

2. Cultural Deep Dive (5–6 hours):
   Entrance → Archery Range → Golden Horse Yurt → Equestrian Arena → Chile Nine Bends Wetland → Nomadic Museum → Exit
   Highlights: Hands-on activities and natural scenery.

3. Adventure Ecology Tour (Full Day):
   Entrance → Horseback Riding (2hr trail) → Chile Nine Bends Wetland → Nomadic Museum → Equestrian Arena → Throat Singing Pavilion → Camping → Exit
   Highlights: Overnight camping and immersive steppe life.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program “Chilechuan Tourism” (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets sold at the entrance (8:00–18:00).
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (June–August): ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (September–May): ¥80 (adults), ¥40 (students/seniors).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and Mongolian ethnic minorities.

Transportation

• By Plane: Fly to Hohhot Baita International Airport (HET), 30km from the zone.
• By Train: Take the high-speed rail from Beijing (2.5 hours) or Ordos (1.5 hours).
• By Car: Self-drive from Hohhot downtown (20km, 30 minutes) via G0601 Expressway.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: June–August for lush grasslands; September–October for autumn Festivals.
• Avoid Crowds: Visit early morning (8:00–10:00) or late afternoon (15:00–16:30).
• Essentials:
  • Sunscreen and hat (high UV at altitude).
  • Warm clothing (evenings can drop to 10°C in summer).
  • Respect nomadic customs: remove shoes before entering yurts.
• Prohibitions: No littering; drones require park approval.