Explore Hohhot: Your Ultimate Inner Mongolia Travel Guide

Planning Your Hohhot Adventure

Essential Travel Information

Get ready for your Hohhot trip! Here’s some key information to help you plan.

Location

China, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region

Timezone

GMT +8

Languages Spoken

Mandarin Chinese, Mongolian

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Understanding Hohhot’s Climate: Weather Snapshot

Here’s what you can expect weather-wise throughout the year:

January-February: Brace yourself for very cold, dry, and windy conditions. Temperatures can plummet below -20°C.

March-April: Things start to warm up gradually, but be prepared for increasing dust storms.

May-June: Enjoy pleasant weather with plenty of sunny days and blooming landscapes – perfect for exploring!

July-August: The warmest months, with temperatures potentially reaching 30°C. Expect occasional rainfall.

September-October: Mild and sunny weather, ideal for seeing the colorful autumn foliage.

November-December: Temperatures drop quickly with increasing snowfall. Bundle up!

Discovering Hohhot: A City Overview

Hohhot, the vibrant capital of Inner Mongolia, offers a fascinating mix of Mongolian and Han Chinese cultures.
As the gateway to the vast grasslands and deserts of Inner Mongolia, it boasts a rich history and culture. Experience nomadic traditions within the city itself, with local markets offering traditional clothing, handicrafts, and delicious dairy products.
Hohhot is a city of contrasts, where modern architecture stands alongside historical landmarks.
It provides a unique opportunity to dive deep into the heart of Inner Mongolia, exploring its diverse heritage and natural beauty. Hohhot’s strategic location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider region, including the famous Gobi Desert and the picturesque Xilamuren Grassland. And don’t forget the food scene – a delightful blend of Mongolian and Chinese flavors, offering everything from hearty mutton dishes to refined regional specialties.

When to Visit Hohhot: Finding the Perfect Time

The best time to visit Hohhot is generally from May to October, when the weather is most pleasant.

Seasonal Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options

• Spring (May-June): Pros – Pleasant weather, blooming grasslands, great for outdoor adventures. Cons – Occasional dust storms are possible.
• Summer (July-August): Pros – Warm and sunny days, many festivals and events. Cons – Occasional rainfall, peak tourist season (expect crowds).
• Autumn (September-October): Pros – Mild weather, stunning fall foliage, fewer tourists. Cons – Evenings can get cooler.
• Winter (November-April): Pros – Beautiful snow-covered landscapes, unique winter activities. Cons – Extremely cold temperatures, limited outdoor activities.

Getting to Hohhot & Visa Information

Plan your journey with these transportation and visa tips.

• Flights: Hohhot Baita International Airport (HET) is the main airport, offering direct flights from major Chinese cities and some international destinations. Check flight prices on sites like Skyscanner or Expedia.
• Trains: Hohhot is well-connected by high-speed rail to major Chinese cities. Hohhot Railway Station and Hohhot East Railway Station are the main stations. Book train tickets through China Railway (12306) or Trip.com.
• Visa Details: Most nationalities require a Chinese visa. Double-check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality well in advance of your trip. Start your visa application process through the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis, airport shuttle buses, and private car services are all available for getting to and from the airport. Didi Chuxing (China’s equivalent of Uber) is also a convenient option.

Diving Deeper into Hohhot

A Fun Fact About Hohhot

Did you know? Hohhot means “Green City” in Mongolian. It was given this name by Altan Khan in the 16th century, symbolizing prosperity and vitality for the region.

Notable Figures from Hohhot

Hohhot is the birthplace of Ulanhu, a prominent political figure in the People’s Republic of China.

Top 10 Hohhot Attractions: Must-See Places

Don’t miss these incredible sights during your visit to Hohhot!

• Inner Mongolia Museum

  Discover the fascinating history, culture, and natural wonders of Inner Mongolia.

  • Address: No.1 Xinhua East Street, Xincheng District, Hohhot
• Dazhao Temple (Wuliang Temple)

  Explore this well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture and historical significance. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about its history.

  • Address: Dazhao Qian Street, Yuquan District, Hohhot
• Xilitu Zhao Temple

  Another important Tibetan Buddhist temple, famed for its stunning murals and sculptures.

  • Address: North of Drum Tower, Yuquan District, Hohhot
• Zhaojun Tomb

  Visit the tomb of Wang Zhaojun, a famous concubine from the Han Dynasty, a symbol of peace and cultural exchange.

  • Address: 9 km south of Hohhot
• Five Pagoda Temple

  Admire the unique pagoda structure with its intricate carvings and Buddhist scriptures.

  • Address: Qingcheng Park, Yuquan District, Hohhot
• Saiwai History Museum

  Learn about the history and culture of the Saiwai region of Inner Mongolia.

  • Address: Inside the Xinhua Square, Hohhot
• Inner Mongolia Ethnic Minorities Cultural Village

  Immerse yourself in the traditional yurts, costumes, and cultural performances of Inner Mongolia’s diverse ethnic groups. Check the performance schedule in advance.

  • Address: South of the Race Course, Hohhot
• Qingcheng Park

  Enjoy scenic views, relaxing walking trails, and various recreational activities in this popular park.

  • Address: Zhongshan West Road, Hohhot
• Manhan Ancient City

  Explore these ancient city ruins steeped in cultural history.

  • Address: Manhan Village, Tumd Left Banner, Hohhot
• Suiyuan City Wall General Government Office Site

  Visit this historical site, the former General Government Office.

  • Address: Xilin South Road, Hohhot

Uncovering Hohhot’s Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the main attractions and discover these local favorites.

• Geological Mineral Museum of Inner Mongolia

  Explore the unique geological formations and mineral resources of Inner Mongolia.

  • Address: No. 20, Da Xue Xi Street, Saihan District, Hohhot
• Islam Style Food Street

  Indulge in authentic Islamic and Mongolian cuisine at this local street food haven.

  • Address: Zhongshan West Road, Yuquan District, Hohhot

Experiencing Hohhot’s Culture: Local Festivals & Events

Immerse yourself in local traditions by attending these vibrant events.

Nadam Fair: A traditional Mongolian festival featuring wrestling, archery, horse racing, and cultural performances (usually held in the summer months). Check local listings for dates and locations.

Inner Mongolia International Culture and Tourism Festival: Celebrate Inner Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage with performances, exhibitions, and culinary delights (typically in summer). See local event schedules for details.

Beyond Hohhot: Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

Expand your adventure with these exciting excursions.

Xilamuren Grassland: Experience nomadic life firsthand with horseback riding and traditional Mongolian hospitality (approx. 2-3 hours drive). Book a tour or arrange transportation in advance.

Genghis Khan Mausoleum: Pay your respects to the legendary Mongol leader (approx. 4-5 hours drive). Consider combining this trip with a visit to the Ordos Museum.

Gobi Desert: Explore the vast desert landscape and enjoy activities like camel riding (requires more planning and travel time). Several tour operators offer Gobi Desert expeditions from Hohhot.

Capturing Hohhot: Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places

Get your camera ready for these stunning locations!

Dazhao Temple: Capture the intricate details of the temple’s architecture and vibrant colors, especially during golden hour.

Xilamuren Grassland: Photograph the endless grasslands, traditional yurts, and grazing livestock, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Zhaojun Tomb: Snap scenic shots of the tomb and the surrounding landscape, particularly during the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

Inner Mongolia Museum: Photographing the artefacts.

Planning Your Stay: Where to Stay & How to Get Around

Find the perfect accommodation and transportation options for your Hohhot visit.

Recommended Length of Stay

A stay of 3-5 days is ideal for exploring Hohhot and its surrounding attractions.

Top Places to Stay in Hohhot

Budget-Friendly Options

• Hohhot Hongyun Hotel: Conveniently located near the railway station.
  • Address: No.28, Chezhan East Road, Huimin District, Hohhot
• Jinjiang Inn Hohhot Railway Station: Close to transportation hubs.
  • Address: No.58, Chezhan East Road, Huimin District, Hohhot
• Home Inn Hohhot University of Technology Branch: A basic and affordable option.
  • Address: Inside Inner Mongolia Industrial University, Hohhot

Mid-Range Hotels

• Sheraton Hohhot Hotel: Enjoy a comfortable stay with good amenities.
  • Address: No.5, Xinhua East Street, Xincheng District, Hohhot
• Holiday Inn Hohhot: Well-equipped and conveniently located for exploring the city.
  • Address: No.71, Xinhua East Street, Xincheng District, Hohhot
• Shangri-La Hotel, Hohhot: Experience luxurious comfort and excellent service.
  • Address: No.5, Zhao Wu Da Road, Hohhot

Luxury Accommodations

• Shangri-La Hotel, Hohhot: Offers stunning city views and exceptional amenities.
  • Address: No.5, Zhao Wu Da Road, Hohhot
• Hilton Hohhot: A modern hotel with stylish rooms and excellent facilities.
  • Address: No.79, Zhongshan East Road, Xincheng District, Hohhot
• Pullman Hohhot: Contemporary hotel with excellent service and dining options.
  • Address: No. 109, Hulunbei’er South Road, Hohhot

Getting Around Hohhot: Transportation Options

• Public Transport: Buses are the most common and affordable way to navigate the city. Purchase a transportation card for easy travel.
• Taxis: Readily available, but always ensure the meter is used. Have your destination written in Chinese to show the driver.
• Bikes: Bike-sharing services are available for short distances, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore.

Preparing for Your Hohhot Experience: Essential Tips

Make your trip smooth and enjoyable with these helpful tips.

What to Pack for Your Hohhot Trip

Be prepared for anything with this packing checklist:

Weather-appropriate clothing: Pack layers to accommodate temperature changes, especially during spring and autumn. A warm jacket is essential for winter.

Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring historical sites and attractions.

Sunscreen and hat: Protect yourself from the strong sun, especially during summer and in the grasslands.

Dust mask: Especially important during spring dust storms. You can purchase these locally.

Universal adapter: Ensure you can charge your electronic devices with a universal adapter.

Useful Apps for Your Trip

Download these apps to make your trip easier:

Baidu Maps: Essential for navigation and finding local information. Note that it’s primarily in Chinese.

Didi Chuxing: China’s ride-hailing app, similar to Uber. You’ll need a Chinese phone number to use it.

Pleco: A comprehensive Chinese-English dictionary app for translating words and phrases.

WeChat: The most popular messaging and payment app in China. It’s helpful for communicating with locals and making purchases.

Local Customs, Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

• Learn basic Mandarin phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases will be incredibly helpful for communication.
• Be respectful of local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering a yurt.
• Bargain respectfully: Bargaining is common in markets and shops, but always do it politely and with a smile.
• Watch out for scams: Be wary of overly friendly strangers or offers that seem too good to be true.
• Stay hydrated: The climate can be dry, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Food, Fun & Finds: Exploring Hohhot’s Delights

Indulge in local cuisine, nightlife, and souvenir shopping.

Top Restaurants in Hohhot

Experience the best of Hohhot’s culinary scene.

• Gerile Ama (格日勒阿妈奶茶馆): A popular spot for traditional Mongolian cuisine, especially dairy products and hand-grabbed mutton. Check online reviews for current locations and opening hours.
  • Address: Multiple locations across Hohhot.
• Little Sheep Hot Pot (小肥羊): A famous hot pot chain known for its flavorful broth and fresh ingredients. Search online for the nearest location.
  • Address: Multiple locations across Hohhot.
• Islam Style Food Street Restaurants: Explore the diverse range of authentic Islamic cuisine in this vibrant food street.
  • Address: Zhongshan West Road, Yuquan District, Hohhot

Must-Try Dishes in Hohhot

Don’t leave Hohhot without trying these local specialties:

Hand-grabbed Mutton (手抓羊肉): Tender mutton cooked and eaten with your hands – a truly authentic experience.

Milk Tea (奶茶): A salty and savory tea made with milk, tea leaves, and salt – a staple of Mongolian cuisine.

Shaomai (烧麦): Steamed dumplings filled with mutton and ginger, a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Roasted Whole Lamb (烤全羊): A festive dish prepared for special occasions, often served at banquets and celebrations.

Hohhot’s Nightlife & Entertainment

Explore Hohhot after dark.

• Bars near Inner Mongolia University: A popular spot for students and young professionals, offering a lively atmosphere and affordable drinks.
  • Address: Area around Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot
• Night markets in Yuquan District: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the night markets, offering street food, local products, and entertainment.
  • Address: Yuquan District, Hohhot

What to Buy: Souvenirs & Markets in Hohhot

Find the perfect mementos of your trip.

• Inner Mongolia Department Store: Offers a wide variety of souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts.
  • Address: Xinhua Square, Hohhot
• Mongolian knives: Decorative and functional knives, but be sure to check regulations for transporting them, especially on flights.
• Camel wool products: Scarves, blankets, and clothing made from soft and luxurious camel wool – a great way to stay warm and support local artisans.