Things To Do
in Hoxut
Hoxut (commonly romanized and known as Hohhot) is the capital of China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, where grassland traditions meet fast-developing urban life. The city is a gateway to wide Mongolian steppes, historic temples, and distinctive dairy- and mutton-based cuisine. Visitors find a mix of Han and Mongol cultural sites, from grand lama temples to lively markets and museums.
Hohhot’s blend of pastoral landscapes nearby and an accessible city center makes it a good base for short nature escapes and cultural exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Hoxut and settle into your local accommodations, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this lesser-known gem. Explore the charming streets and enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, relishing local flavors and freshly brewed tea. Take some time to stroll through the beautiful surroundings, capturing scenic views and vibrant local culture.
Visit the local market to immerse yourself in the daily life of Hoxut, where colorful stalls display handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with friendly vendors who are eager to share their stories and traditions, demonstrating the warmth of the community. Snack on homemade dumplings or sweet treats as you continue to explore the rustic charm of the town.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a family-run restaurant, where you can taste authentic Hoxut dishes made from local ingredients. As the sun sets, join locals in a nearby park for evening dances or tai chi sessions, embracing the communal spirit and tranquility of the area. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll under the stars, appreciating the peaceful ambiance.
Set out early to discover the stunning natural beauty surrounding Hoxut, embarking on a hiking trail that leads through lush valleys and picturesque hills. With every step, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the sights of rich flora and fauna that await you. Capture memorable photographs of the breathtaking landscapes that grace this part of China.
After a hearty picnic lunch amongst the scenery, head to a nearby river for some leisurely canoeing or simply relax by the water's edge, listening to the gentle flow of the river. Engage with local fishermen and gain insights into their traditional fishing methods, making your experience even more enriching. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Return to Hoxut to watch the sunset from a scenic viewpoint, the sky painted in shades of orange and pink. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals over dinner, exchanging travel tips and cultural experiences. Wrap up your day by enjoying local music and folk performances that showcase the vibrant culture of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.30-1 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride (3–5 km) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique blend of Mongolian and Han cultures with rich traditions and festivals
- Access to scenic grasslands close to the city for day trips
- Affordable prices for food, transport and lodging compared with larger Chinese cities
- Good opportunities for cultural photography and hands-on experiences (yurts, horse riding)
- Harsh winters and strong spring winds can limit outdoor activities
- Language barrier outside major hotels and tourist sites (less English spoken)
- Limited international flight connections — often requires a domestic transfer
- Some rural areas may have limited tourist infrastructure and fewer dining options for special diets
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxie)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？ (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is this?
- "我不吃肉 (Wǒ bù chī ròu)" - I don't eat meat
- "厕所在哪里？ (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "请慢一点 (Qǐng màn yīdiǎn)" - Please slow down / Please speak more slowly
Places to Visit in Hoxut
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph intricate interior murals, the silver Buddha statue and traditional temple architecture; good light in the morning.
Unique stupa-style pagodas and ornate carvings make excellent subjects for architectural shots.
Wide-open steppe landscapes, horses, yurts and dramatic sunrises/sunsets — ideal for panoramic and cultural shots.
Exhibits of artifacts, traditional costumes and mounted displays provide close-up cultural and historical photo opportunities (check photography rules inside).
Candid street photography, food stalls, red lanterns and daily life scenes offer vibrant, intimate images.
Food in Hoxut
Hoxut Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised mutton or roasted lamb is ubiquitous — try it at family-run restaurants or specialty mutton houses in the old town.
Must-Try!
Wheat-based noodles and steamed buns are common staples; pair them with mutton-based broths or sauces at local noodle shops.
Thick yogurt and local cheeses are often sold in markets; airag (fermented mare’s milk) is a traditional drink available in grassland areas and at cultural shows.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Street vendors and small stalls sell skewered lamb, pancakes, buns and sweets; ideal for tasting grilled mutton skewers, sesame cakes and quick noodle bowls.
Markets near the old city sell fresh dairy, breads and local produce — perfect for sampling fresh yogurt, cured meats and cheeses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful in temples and monasteries: dress modestly, speak quietly, ask before photographing monks or sacred objects, and follow signage about where to walk.
A polite nod or slight bow is common; show deference to elders and remove shoes when entering private homes in some households.
Avoid making insensitive comments about ethnic groups or politics. When visiting nomadic families, accept invitations politely and follow the host’s lead.
Bargaining is common at markets but do so politely and with a smile; fixed-price shops will not expect haggling.
Safety
Tipping in Hoxut
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely expected in most local restaurants or taxis, though it is increasingly common in high-end hotels and tours. Small tips for exceptional service are appreciated but not mandatory.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) dominate local transactions; cash (RMB) is still useful for small vendors and rural areas. International credit cards are accepted at larger hotels, some restaurants and tourist attractions, but may not work everywhere — carry some cash as backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Windy and cool; early spring remains chilly with occasional dust storms. Layers and a windproof jacket are recommended. Grasslands begin greening by late spring.
Warm and pleasant, often the best time for grassland visits; daytime temperatures typically comfortable but evenings can be cool. Peak tourist season on the steppes, so book accommodations in advance.
Crisp, dry and colorful — one of the most pleasant times to visit with stable weather and clear skies. Great for hiking and photography.
Very cold with temperatures frequently below freezing and occasional heavy snow; many outdoor attractions are quiet and some services may reduce hours. Dress in proper cold-weather gear.
Hoxut at Night
Hiking in Hoxut
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mountain and forest park options within driving distance offering trails, scenic views and cooler summer hiking; good for day hikes and nature walks.
Gentle trails and open-steppe walks on grasslands, ideal for photography and short treks rather than technical hiking.
Riverbank paths and viewing points near the Yellow River provide shoreline walks and photographic viewpoints; check local access rules and seasonal conditions.
Airports
How to reach Hoxut by plane.
Primary airport serving Hohhot with domestic flights and some regional routes; about 20–30 minutes by car from downtown depending on traffic, with airport shuttles and taxis available.
Located to the west in Baotou (approximately 1–1.5 hours by road), serves additional domestic connections and can be an alternative routing for some trips in Inner Mongolia.
Further south (Ordos region), used by travelers combining visits to Ordos and southern grassland areas; reachable by road transfers and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in the city, contributing to mainstream cultural, commercial and administrative life.
A significant ethnic minority with strong cultural traditions (language, music, dress, pastoral heritage) visible in festivals and rural areas.
A Muslim minority present in the city, home to halal food stalls and a distinct cultural quarter.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional and highly respected sport with cultural significance; matches and demonstrations are often part of festivals and cultural events.
Horse culture is strong — riding is popular recreationally and in traditional competitions; polo and horse races appear at festivals.
Like much of China, basketball and football are widely played and enjoyed in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hoxut.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with major Chinese cities. Seek out noodle shops, vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes and simple steamed buns. It helps to learn or show the phrase “wǒ chī sù” (我吃素, I am vegetarian) and confirm that broths are not meat-based. In larger hotels and restaurants there are usually meat-free choices.
There is a Hui Muslim community with halal eateries (especially in the Muslim quarter) offering lamb and beef dishes prepared according to Islamic dietary rules. Look for halal signs or ask locals for recommendations.
Wheat is common in many dishes; those with celiac disease or serious allergies should be cautious and communicate restrictions in Mandarin. Pack snacks if you have strict requirements.