Huitengxile Grassland
Huitengxile Grassland, located in Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia, spans 2,800 square kilometers at an altitude of 2,100 meters. Known as the "Wind Power Capital of Asia," it combines pristine grassland ecosystems with modern renewable energy infrastructure. The steppe features rolling hills, 100+ crystal-clear lakes, and the world's largest contiguous wind farm with 342 turbines. Designated a national geological park in 2006, it offers a unique blend of nomadic culture and sustainable technology.
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:
- Core Conservation Area (60% of total area): Undisturbed alpine meadows with 200+ plant species
- Wind Farm Zone: 342 turbines generating 500MW across 45sqkm
- 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
- Wind Turbine Observation Deck: Panoramic views of 65m-tall turbines against mountain backdrops
- Yellow Flower Valley: June-August wildflower season with 50+ species including edelweiss
- Nomadic Culture Village: Traditional yurt stays with dairy product making demonstrations
- Huitengxile Lake: Glacial lake with migratory bird populations (April-October)
- Equestrian Center: Horseback riding across 15km designated trails
- Astro-Observatory: Dark Sky Park certification for stargazing
Suggested Itineraries
-
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
-
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
-
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
- 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