A Hidden Gem in North China

Recommended Attractions Inner Mongolia Museum: Located on Xinhua East Street, Xincheng District, Hohhot, this comprehensive museum integrates collection, exhibition, research, education, and service. Its rich collection includes dinosaur fossils, bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings, showcasing the history, culture, and natural resources of Inner Mongolia. Dazhao Temple: Situated on Dazhao Qian Street, Yuquan District, Hohhot, this is the earliest built Gelugpa Monastery in Hohhot and one of the largest temples built in the early period of Mongolian conversion to Gelugpa Buddhism, second only to Meidai Temple in Inner Mongolia. The temple boasts magnificent architecture, including the Grand Hall, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, and the Guanyin Hall, housing numerous Buddha statues and cultural relics. Xilitu Zhao: Located at the north end of Shitou Alley, Yuquan District, Hohhot, this is the largest temple in Hohhot and one of the city's important cultural heritages. The temple features unique architectural styles, including the Grand Hall, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Bell Tower, and the Drum Tower, and houses numerous Buddha statues and cultural relics. Zhaojun Museum: Located in Taohua Village, Yuquan District, Hohhot, this museum focuses on the culture of Wang Zhaojun. It consists of Zhaojun's Tomb, Zhaojun Shrine, and the Xiongnu Culture Museum, showcasing the historical background, process, and impact of Zhaojun's journey to the north. Old Street of Saibei: Located on Danan Street, Yuquan District, Hohhot, this ancient street features Ming and Qing Dynasty architectural styles. The street is lined with antique shops, handicraft shops, and snack bars, where visitors can purchase various Inner Mongolian specialties and savor local delicacies. Recommended Cuisine Hand-Grabbed Mutton: This traditional Mongolian dish involves boiling bone-in mutton until cooked, without adding salt or other seasonings. When eating, the cooked mutton is removed from the bone and dipped in sauces like chive flower sauce or mashed garlic, allowing diners to fully appreciate the freshness and original flavor of the mutton. Roasted Whole Lamb: This famous traditional Mongolian dish uses a plump lamb, which is slaughtered, scalded, dehaired, marinated, and seasoned before being roasted in a special oven with fruitwood charcoal. The result is golden-brown, crispy skin, tender and juicy meat, and a rich aroma. Mongolian Hot Pot: Originating in the Yuan Dynasty, this is a perfect winter dish. Thinly sliced fresh local lamb is swirled in a boiling hot pot and served with sesame sauce, chive flower sauce, fermented bean curd, and other condiments. The meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender and flavorful. Shao Mai: One of Hohhot's specialties, these steamed dumplings are filled with mutton, green onions, and other ingredients, wrapped in thin dough, and shaped like pomegranates. They are known for their thin skin, generous filling, delicious taste, and soft texture. Lamb Offal Stew: This hearty stew is made with lamb's head, hooves, blood, liver, heart, intestines, and tripe, which are cleaned, boiled, and then cut into shreds or slices. They are then simmered with onions, ginger, garlic, chili peppers, and other seasonings. The stew is rich in flavor and nutrients. Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Hohhot and check in to your hotel. Visit the Inner Mongolia Museum to learn about the region's history, culture, and natural resources. Day 2: In the morning, visit Dazhao Temple and Xilitu Zhao to admire the temple architecture and Buddhist relics. In the afternoon, explore the Old Street of Saibei, shop for local specialties, and enjoy the local cuisine. Day 3: In the morning, visit the Zhaojun Museum to learn about the history of Zhaojun's journey north. In the afternoon, enjoy free time before preparing for your departure. Things to Note Hohhot has a dry climate and strong UV rays, so remember to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated. Inner Mongolia is a multi-ethnic region, so please respect local religious beliefs and customs. Traffic in Hohhot can be congested, so consider using public transportation or taking a taxi. When trying local delicacies like Hand-Grabbed Mutton and Roasted Whole Lamb, choose reputable restaurants to ensure food safety.