Famous Landmarks in Hohhot. Attractions, Monuments, Sightseeing

Iconic Landmarks

Hohhot's landmarks offer profound understanding of its history and culture.

These sites connect visitors with the territory's Buddhist heritage, historical figures, and the vast cultural narrative of Inner Mongolia.

Each landmark provides an unique perspective about the city's identity, from old temples to modern museums.

Major Landmarks

Dazhao Temple (大召寺 - Dàzhào Sì): A large, well-preserved Buddhist monastery.
Zhaojun Tomb (昭君墓 - Zhāojūn Mù): The tomb of Wang Zhaojun, symbolizing ethnic unity.
Inner Mongolia Museum (内蒙古博物院 - Nèiměnggǔ Bówùyuàn): Showcases history, culture, and natural resources.
General's Mansion (将军衙署 - Jiāngjūn Yámǔ): Former residence and office of the Qing Dynasty's military governor.

Visitor Information & Tips

Operating Hours & Fees

Dazhao Temple: Typically 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Entry fee around ¥30-50.
Zhaojun Tomb: Typically 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (winter). Entry fee around ¥60-80.
Inner Mongolia Museum: Typically 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed Mondays). Free entry with your passport.
General's Mansion: Typically 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Entry fee around ¥20-30.
Guided tours may be is offered at major sites. You can also hire local tour guides.
Consider booking attraction tickets in advance. GetYourGuide

Best Viewing & Photography Tips

Visit Dazhao Temple early to avoid crowds. Respect religious customs; photography is often not allowed in some halls.
Climb to the top of Zhaojun Tomb for vistas of the surrounding area.
Allow ample time (2-3 hours) for the Inner Mongolia Museum, as it is large.
Weekdays, especially mornings, are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays.

Exploring side streets around Dazhao Temple can offer atmospheric photo opportunities.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Inner Mongolia Museum: Highlights include dinosaur fossils, steppe culture, Mongolian history, and aerospace exhibits.
Inner Mongolia Library: A significant cultural institution.
Inner Mongolia Geological Museum: Concentrates on the geology and mineral resources of the region.
Hohhot City Museum: Focuses on the heritage and development of Hohhot city.

Art Galleries and Performance Venues

Art Galleries:
Some boutique galleries exist, often connected to local universities or cultural centers.
Cultural Centers:
Local cultural centers may host smaller heritage performances or exhibitions.
Inner Mongolia National Grand Theatre:
Hosts various performances, including Mongolian song and dance.
Special Exhibits:
Check local listings for temporary exhibitions at the Inner Mongolia Museum or other cultural venues.

Historical Sites

Explore Hohhot's historical sites to connect with its rich past.

Historical Districts & Religious Sites

Old Street (塞上老街 - Sàishàng Lǎo Jiē)
A pedestrian street near Dazhao Temple, featuring traditional architecture, local crafts, and eateries.
Qing Dynasty & Earlier Architecture
The area around Dazhao Temple and the General's Mansion provides examples of historical architecture.
Dazhao Temple
A Tibetan Buddhist monastery and significant spiritual site.

Xilitu Zhao Temple (席力图召 - Xílìtú Zhào)
Another significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery, adjacent to Dazhao Temple, known for its Living Buddha's residence.
Great Mosque of Hohhot (呼和浩特清真大寺)
One of the oldest and largest mosques in Inner Mongolia, reflecting the Hui community's presence.
Archaeological Sites & Ruins
Less prominent within Hohhot city. Inner Mongolia as a region has various ancient ruins and archaeological sites related to nomadic empires.

Memorial Sites & Monuments

Zhaojun Tomb: A memorial to Wang Zhaojun. Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue: A prominent statue symbolizing Mongolian heritage.

Historical Districts

Old Street near Dazhao Temple with traditional architecture and local crafts.

Industrial & Military Heritage

This is less of a focus for tourism in Hohhot and its immediate vicinity.

Religious & Spiritual Sites

Hohhot is home to various religious sites that reflect its varied cultural and religious landscape.

Dazhao Temple and Xilitu Zhao Temple: Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
Great Mosque of Hohhot: A central place of worship for the Hui Muslim community.
Other smaller temples and cathedrals are present, serving local communities.

Natural Attractions

While Hohhot is a city, nearby natural attractions offer a change of scenery.

Grassland Escapes

Experience the vast beauty of Inner Mongolia's grasslands.

Explore the Steppe

Xilamuren Grassland: One of the closest and most popular grasslands for yurt stays and cultural shows.
Gegentala Grassland: Larger and more developed, with extensive tourist facilities and cultural experiences.
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see horses, sheep, cattle, and various bird species.

Urban Green Spaces

Find tranquility within the city's green areas.

Relax in Nature

Qingcheng Park: A large urban park with lakes, gardens, plus for fun facilities.
South Lake Wetland Park: Natural wetlands, birdwatching, and walking paths.
Urban Lakes: Lakes in Qingcheng Park and South Lake provide recreation.

Geological Features

Geological features are not common in Hohhot itself.

Wider Region Geology

The wider Inner Mongolia region has varied geological landscapes.
Inner Mongolia Museum has dinosaur fossils.
Desert vistas are further west.

Consider day trips farther away for outstanding geological sites.

Beaches, Lakes, and Waterways

Hohhot has no beaches.

Urban Waterways

Hohhot has urban lakes, like those in Qingcheng Park and South Lake.
These lakes are suitable for recreation like paddle boating.

Major rivers or large natural lakes for extensive water sports are not in the immediate vicinity.

Birdwatching Opportunities

South Lake Wetland Park and surrounding grassland areas provide habitats for various bird species.

Birdwatching Spots

South Lake Wetland Park is a known spot.
Grasslands attract migratory birds seasonally.
Bring binoculars for the best experience.

Local guides can sometimes arrange birdwatching excursions in prime seasons.

Hidden Gems for Unique Perspectives

Five Pagoda Temple 五塔寺 - Wǔtǎ Sì

A unique temple with a Diamond Sutra Pagoda featuring exquisite carvings, including an astronomical map.

Wudangzhao Lamasery 五当召 - Wǔdāngzhào

Near Baotou, this large Tibetan Buddhist monastery is less touristy than Dazhao and offers a more serene experience.

Local Markets in Huimin District

Explore these for an authentic glimpse into daily life and local interactions, rarely visited by mass tourism.

Explore Beyond the City

The beauty of Inner Mongolia truly unfolds on its vast grasslands. Consider a day trip or an overnight stay to fully immerse yourself in the natural landscape and nomadic culture.

Famous Landmarks in Hohhot