
The Qing Dynasty Naiman Prince's Palace, located on Wangfu Street in Naiman Banner, Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is the best-preserved Qing Dynasty prince's palace in the region. The Naiman Palace primarily consists of Qing Dynasty and Liao Dynasty exhibition halls. The Qing Dynasty exhibition hall showcases the merits and demerits of the 12th and 16th princes of Naiman Banner, the palace's administrative structure, religious beliefs, daily life, and Mongolian customs. The Liao Dynasty exhibition hall features Liao Dynasty artifacts and historical materials unearthed within Naiman Banner, highlighting photos of the joint tomb of the Princess of Chen and her husband, one of the top ten archaeological discoveries in China during the Seventh Five-Year Plan period. Visitors can also view clay sculptures and leather paintings. Having weathered over 140 years of history, the Qing Dynasty Naiman Prince's Palace continues to welcome visitors with its captivating charm on the Horqin grasslands. It is both a precious and irreplaceable cultural relic and a mirror witnessing Naiman's Qing Dynasty history. The Naiman Prince's Palace boasts a unique architectural style, with a front porch and a rear building, creating an elegant and refined aesthetic that combines typical Qing Dynasty architectural style with a strong local ethnic character.
Climate: Temperate continental climate
Best travel time: June to October
1-3 hours
free
Naiman Palace was a historical administrative and cultural center in Inner Mongolia, representing the lifestyle and governance of local Mongolian rulers. It is significant for understanding the regional history, architecture, and cultural heritage of the Naiman tribe and Inner Mongolia.
The palace is located in Inner Mongolia, and the nearest city for access is Baotou. Visitors usually reach it by taxi or private car. Local tour operators may provide transport from Baotou city. Public transport options are limited.
The palace is generally open during daylight hours. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to mild weather and clearer skies, ideal for sightseeing and photography.
Entrance fees are generally modest and can be purchased at the ticket office on site. Some local tours may include tickets in their packages.
Booking in advance is not usually required. For guided tours or special events, it is recommended to book a few days in advance.
1–2 hours is sufficient to explore the palace grounds, courtyards, and surrounding areas.
Guided tours are available mainly in Chinese. English or other language guides may be arranged in advance through local tour operators.
Begin at the main entrance, visit the central palace hall, then walk through courtyards and gardens, ending with the exhibition areas to learn about the history and cultural context.
Night visits are generally not allowed, and there are no regular light shows. Special cultural tours or events may be organized occasionally by local authorities.
The palace is usually not crowded. Visiting on weekdays or outside major holidays is recommended for a quieter experience.
Facilities are limited. There are restrooms near the entrance and a few small shops or kiosks for drinks and snacks.
Some areas may have steps or uneven ground, so elderly or disabled visitors should be cautious. Children should be supervised, especially around elevated sections.
Cash is recommended for entrance fees and small purchases. Some vendors may accept mobile payments, but coverage is limited.
Nearby dining options include small local restaurants serving Inner Mongolian cuisine and simple cafes near the palace entrance.
Vegetarian and halal options are limited but may be found in nearby Baotou restaurants or arranged through tour operators.
Accommodations are mainly in Baotou city, ranging from guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Some tour packages may include overnight stays near the palace.
Small shops near the palace entrance offer postcards, traditional crafts, and miniature palace models.