Things To Do
in Zalantun

Local produce, preserved meats, dumpling stalls and snack vendors where you can try breakfast items (baozi, steamed buns) and buy foraged mushrooms and berries in season.

Small clusters of family-run restaurants near main roads and scenic areas serving noodle soups, stews and lamb dishes—great for a rustic, authentic meal.

A simple Mandarin greeting (ni hao) is fine; show respect to elders, accept food or gifts politely, and offer both hands when presenting/receiving something formal. Avoid sensitive political discussions.

Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in ethnic minority villages; a small gift or polite introduction helps build rapport.

Meals are often shared communally; wait to be invited to start and avoid wasting food. Toasting at the table is common—respond politely and cup your glass with both hands if toasting an elder or host.

In private homes you may be asked to remove shoes; follow the host’s lead and bring clean socks or slippers if you plan a home visit.

Tipping is not widely expected in small-town Inner Mongolia; rounding up a taxi fare or leaving small change at restaurants is appreciated but not required. For guides or drivers who provide exceptional service, a modest tip is customary.

Cash (RMB) remains important in smaller towns and markets. Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are common in larger stores and restaurants but may be less available in rural or ethnic-village settings; carry cash for remote areas and small purchases.

Cool to mild, with melting snow and budding trees; muddy trails are common — good for bird migration and early wildflowers in lower elevations; bring layers and rain protection.

Warm days and cool nights, ideal for hiking, horseback riding and forest walks; insects (mosquitoes) can be present, and afternoon thunderstorms are possible.

One of the best times to visit — clear skies, crisp air and spectacular fall foliage in larch and birch forests; temperatures drop quickly after sunset so pack warm clothing.

Very cold with snow from late November through March — excellent for winter landscapes and snow activities but requires serious cold-weather gear; some roads or facilities may be closed.

The majority ethnic group involved in trade, farming and town life.

Significant Mongol population with cultural ties to pastoralism and horse culture.

Indigenous ethnic minorities in the region with distinct languages, crafts and cultural traditions, visible in villages and cultural events.

Small numbers of Manchu and other Northeastern Chinese ethnicities contributing to local cultural diversity.