Huitengxile Grassland

Historical Overview

This ancient steppe has sustained nomadic civilizations for over 3,000 years. Key historical milestones:

• 13th Century: Part of Genghis Khan's northern campaign routes
• 17th Century: Site of the decisive Battle of Huitengxile between Qing and Mongol forces
• 1995: First wind turbines installed, marking China's early renewable energy development
• 2015: Recognized as a national eco-tourism demonstration zone

Structural Layout

The grassland presents three distinct zones:

1. Core Conservation Area (60% of total area): Undisturbed alpine meadows with 200+ plant species
2. Wind Farm Zone: 342 turbines generating 500MW across 45sqkm
3. Cultural Experience Zone: Traditional Mongolian yurts, horse tracks, and performance venues

Key landmarks include:

• Yellow Flower Valley (seasonal blooming meadows)
• Aobao Sacred Mounds (ancient navigation markers)
• 12km Wooden Boardwalk through wetland ecosystems

Major Attractions

1. Wind Turbine Observation Deck: Panoramic views of 65m-tall turbines against mountain backdrops
2. Yellow Flower Valley: June-August wildflower season with 50+ species including edelweiss
3. Nomadic Culture Village: Traditional yurt stays with dairy product making demonstrations
4. Huitengxile Lake: Glacial lake with migratory bird populations (April-October)
5. Equestrian Center: Horseback riding across 15km designated trails
6. Astro-Observatory: Dark Sky Park certification for stargazing

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Day Tour (6–7 hours):
   Wind Farm Visitor Center → Yellow Flower Valley → Nomadic Culture Village → Aobao Mounds → Sunset Viewpoint
   Highlights: Photography opportunities at wind turbines and wildflower fields

2. Cultural Immersion (2 Days):
   Day 1: Arrival → Yurt Camp Setup → Horseback Riding → Evening Bonfire
   Day 2: Milk tea Making → Archery Lesson → Visit Wind Farm Museum → Departure

3. Adventure Route (3 Days):
   Day 1: Hiking in Yellow Flower Valley
   Day 2: Mountain Biking on Boardwalk Trails
   Day 3: Paragliding Experience → Local Museum Visit → Traditional Banquet

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip or Fliggy (up to 15 days in advance)
• On-Site: Main Entrance Ticket Office (opens 7:30 AM)
• Prices:
  Peak Season (June–August): ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (students)
  Off-Season: ¥80 (adults), ¥40 (students)
  Free: Children under 1.2m

Transportation

• By Car: 2.5-hour drive from Hohhot (150km via G6 Expressway)
• By Bus: Daily buses from Hohhot Long-Distance Bus Station (¥50/person)
• By Train: High-speed rail to Ulanqab Station + 40-minute taxi
• Guided Tours: Full-day tours from Hohhot starting at ¥300/person

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Visit: June–September (wildflower season, average 18–25°C)
• Avoid Crowds: Weekdays (weekends host 5,000+ daily visitors)
• Essentials:
  • Layered clothing (temperature swings of 15°C between day/night)
  • Sun protection (UV index often exceeds 8)
  • Cash for remote yurt vendors
• Prohibited: Littering, off-trail hiking, drone flying without permit