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The Wulanbutong Scenic Area is located in the southwest of Keshiketeng Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. It was once the royal Mulan Paddock area of the Qing Dynasty.
Wulanbutong is Mongolian, which means red altar-shaped mountain in Chinese. It actually refers to the Big and Small Red Mountains, and is part of Mulan Enclosure.
The natural tourism resources of Wulanbutong Scenic Area are mainly grasslands, lakes, sandy lands, wetlands and woodlands, supplemented by trees, flowers and wild animals, and most of them are well preserved.
The cultural tourism resources are mainly Mongolian ethnic customs, ancient battlefield ruins and relics, and special tourist products, supplemented by Mongolian culture and special food. They are the carriers for cultural tourism, folk tourism, religious tourism and industrial sightseeing tourism.
Ancient costume and modern TV dramas such as "My Fair Princess", "Kangxi Dynasty" and "Emperor Wu of Han" were filmed here.
On April 19, 1991, the State Council approved the Ulan Butong Scenic Area as a "National Key Scenic Area of China".
Temperate continental climate, May to October
Two days
Famous attractions: Baicao Aobao Grand Canyon, European-style scenery area, Wucai Mountain
120 yuan
All day
Ulanbutong District is known for its beautiful grasslands and historical significance as part of Inner Mongolia. It is historically significant for its role in the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle and culture, particularly in the context of the ancient Mongol empire. Ulanbutong has also been a central location for various cultural exchanges and a site for traditional Mongolian festivals.
Ulanbutong is located in the Chifeng City area of Inner Mongolia. It can be reached by taxi from Chifeng city center or by taking a long-distance bus. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or booking a local tour might be the most convenient option.
The area is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to September), when the weather is pleasant and the grasslands are in full bloom. The spring and autumn months offer less crowded and still beautiful conditions for visiting.
The entrance fee varies by site within Ulanbutong. Typically, tickets range from 20 to 50 RMB, depending on the area you plan to visit. Tickets can be bought on-site or through local tour operators, but there are no online platforms available for advance booking at this time.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for most of Ulanbutong, especially outside of the peak tourist season. However, during the summer or around festivals, it’s advisable to book through local tour companies to ensure availability.
A visit to Ulanbutong typically requires 1 to 2 days. This allows time for outdoor activities, exploration of the grasslands, and participation in local festivals or cultural experiences.
Guided tours are available, with guides offering services in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available, but it’s recommended to arrange this in advance through a tour operator.
Start with a visit to the Ulanbutong Grassland, followed by a trip to the local museum. Afterward, take a tour of the nearby Mongolian yurts and enjoy a horseback ride across the grasslands. If visiting during festival season, attend the horse races and enjoy the local festivities.
Night visits are not typically available, as most activities focus on daytime exploration. However, some festivals may offer special evening events, such as bonfires or traditional performances. It’s best to check with local tour operators for any special night-time events.
Ulanbutong can be crowded during the summer months and during major festivals such as the annual horse races. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the spring or autumn when the weather is still good but the area sees fewer tourists.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water, and rest areas are available on-site. However, food options are limited within the grasslands, so it’s advisable to bring snacks or arrange meals through local tour operators. There are a few small shops for souvenirs, but they are quite basic.
The grasslands may be difficult to navigate for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. However, some areas are accessible by vehicle, and there are options for easy walks and shorter excursions for families with children.
Cash is still commonly used in Ulanbutong, especially in rural areas. However, mobile payment systems such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are becoming increasingly accepted in major tourist areas, including for entry fees and purchases.
There are a few small local restaurants near the grassland areas offering Mongolian food such as lamb, dairy products, and traditional soups. More dining options are available in the city of Chifeng, around an hour away by car.
Halal food options are available, given the region's Muslim population. Vegetarian options are somewhat limited, as Mongolian cuisine tends to focus on meat, but some local restaurants may offer vegetables and dairy-based dishes.
There are limited accommodation options near Ulanbutong, including guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns. More luxurious options can be found in Chifeng, which offers a wider range of hotels and amenities.
There are several souvenir shops in Ulanbutong selling traditional Mongolian crafts, such as felt goods, woolen textiles, and handmade jewelry. The most typical souvenirs include Mongolian hats, scarves, and small souvenirs featuring local horses.
After visiting Ulanbutong, the best transportation options to continue your trip include taxis, long-distance buses, or rental cars. Chifeng City is a major transport hub, offering buses and trains to other parts of Inner Mongolia.
