Hohhot Inner Mongolia, China Travel Guide
Hohhot lies in the south-central part of Inner Mongolia, nestled on a high plain. The Daqing Mountains mark its northern boundary, providing a dramatic backdrop to the city. To the south, the Yellow River meanders, influencing the region's climate and historical development. The city sits at an elevation of about 1,000 meters (3,300 feet), giving it a distinct high-plateau climate.
Surrounding Hohhot, the landscape transitions into grasslands, making it an ideal base for exploring the iconic steppes of Inner Mongolia. This where it is geographically connects the city to both the vast pastoral lands and the further agricultural areas influenced by the Yellow River.
The location positions Hohhot as a bridge between central China and the Mongolian heartland, a role it has played for centuries.
Hohhot’s history stretches back over 2,A millennium, with evidence of people settlement dating from the Warring States period.
Its modern identity began to take shape during the Ming Dynasty when the city, then called Guihua, was founded by Altan Khan, a powerful Mongol leader. He built the city as a center for trade and culture, fostering an unique blend of Han Chinese and Mongolian influences.
Evidence of human settlement from the Warring States period.
City, then Guihua, founded by Altan Khan as a trade and cultural center.
A Tibetan Buddhist masterpiece, a testament to its era.
Hohhot contributed to the struggle for national identity.
Became the main city of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
The Dazhao Temple, a masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist design, a testament to this era. Hohhot also played a role in the struggle for national identity in the early 20th century, eventually becoming the main city of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in 1947.
This deep history imbues the city with a character unlike any other, offering a tangible connection to the past around every corner.
The city fostered an unique blend of Han Chinese and Mongolian influences.
Hohhot City Skyline and Traditional Architecture
Hohhot has travelers with a diverse set of experiences. You can wander through ancient Buddhist monasteries, marvel at the vast collections within the Inner Mongolia Museum, and savor the rich flavors of Mongolian cuisine.
Beyond the city limits, the iconic grasslands beckon with opportunities for horseback riding, staying in traditional yurts, and experiencing Mongolian cultural performances.
Experience equestrian activities and traditional yurt stays.
Discover shopping malls, a metro system, and street food.
Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and museums.
The city itself buzzes with modern life, featuring shopping malls, a growing metro system, and a lively street food scene. Yet, it retains a distinct cultural flavor, evident in its architecture, the prevalence of Mongolian script, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Explore vast collections demonstrating the region's history, culture, and natural heritage.
Visit this significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery, a masterpiece of it's construction style.
Discover the tomb of Wang Zhaojun, an ancient Han Dynasty figure.
A eating together experience featuring various types of meat and vegetables cooked in a simmering broth.
A staple of Mongolian cuisine, often prepared with traditional spices.
Explore a variety of local dairy items, from milk tea to yogurt and cheese.
