Wulanchabu

Wulanchabu brings together grasslands, volcanoes, lakes and forests, making it ideal for escaping the summer heat and taking a road trip. The itinerary below can help you plan a visit to the “Grassland Summer Resort Capital.”

Classic 3–4 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival and a First Look at the City

After arriving in <u data-keyword="乌兰察布集宁区">Jining District</u>, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the <u data-keyword="乌兰察布博物馆">Wulanchabu Museum</u>, which offers free admission with an ID card, and learn about the history of the grassland region. In the evening, head to Wulanchabu by Night for light shows and fireworks, then sample local snacks at the night market.

• Day 2: Into a Volcanic Wonderland

Drive to the Ulan Hada Volcanic Group, about 1.5 hours away. You can start at Volcano No. 8, then visit Nos. 6, 5 and 3 in turn. After 4 p.m., the light is softer and ideal for watching the grassland sunset from a volcanic crater. Return to the city in the evening, or stay at a guesthouse near the volcanoes.

• Day 3: A Restorative Grassland Journey

Drive along the <u data-keyword="乌兰察布科凉线">Keliang Line</u> to Huitengxile Grassland, stopping to rest wherever the scenery appeals to you. Navigate to <u data-keyword="乌兰察布牛粑粑欢乐草原">Niubaba Happy Grassland</u> to try horse riding, grass skiing and a grassland train. If you do not enter the paid scenic area, you can also admire and photograph the grassland from outside.

• Day 4: Lakeside, Forest or Departure

In the morning, go to the shore of Laolihai to drink coffee and enjoy the water views, or visit Sumushan instead for a forest experience. Buy dairy products, dried beef and other local specialties in the afternoon, then begin your return journey.

Local Food Recommendations

Wulanchabu is known as the “Potato Capital of China.” Lamb and dairy products are also local specialties. The following foods are worth including in your plans:

Accommodation and Transportation Tips

• Where to stay:
  • Jining District (city center): Options range from budget chains to mid-range and upscale hotels. Dining and shopping are convenient, making it suitable for travelers who want a stable base and fewer hotel changes.
  • Grassland yurts: If you want to join a bonfire party and admire the stars, consider staying in a yurt around Huitengxile Grassland or at a Planet Guesthouse beneath the volcanoes. Book ahead during peak season, and confirm whether the room has a private bathroom and heating.
• Getting around:
  • High-speed rail: Trains from Beijing reach Wulanchabu Station directly in about two hours; from Hohhot, the journey takes about one hour.
  • Driving/renting a car: Attractions are far apart, usually requiring 1–1.5 hours of driving, so having a car gives you more flexibility. You can pick up a rental car at the high-speed rail station.
  • Private car hire: If driving is inconvenient, arrange a one-day private tour locally. A five-seat car round trip to the volcanoes or grassland costs about 350 yuan.

Travel Tips

• Temperature changes and clothing: Day-night temperature differences are significant in the grassland and volcanic areas. Summer nights can still drop to around 10°C, so bring a shell jacket or thick coat. Use sun protection during the day, including SPF 50+ sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
• Footwear: Volcanic areas have plenty of loose rocks, and walks on the grassland may be long. Wear nonslip sports shoes and avoid slippers and high heels.
• Mosquitoes and insects: Mosquitoes are common on the grassland and by the lakes. Bring insect repellent when traveling with children.
• Horse-riding precautions: Confirm the full price with the operator before riding, and ask whether charges are based on laps or time to avoid extra costs.
• Buying specialties: Local products are usually more expensive inside scenic areas. Buy dairy products, dried beef and other souvenirs in Jining’s urban area, such as around Jiefang Street, after comparing several shops.
• Charging electric vehicles: Charging stations are available in the city and at highway service areas, but remote grassland and volcanic routes have fewer, and some equipment may not work. Plan your range in advance and do not rely solely on the “fast charging” locations shown by navigation apps.