
The Rehe-Ashigai Highway, located in Keshiketeng Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is the shorthand for the highway from Reshuitang Town to the Ashihatu Stone Forest Scenic Area. It stretches less than 80 kilometers, but even these few dozen kilometers offer a rich tapestry of scenery. Along the way, you'll encounter endless grasslands, rolling peaks, vast stands of birch, poplar, and larch trees, and crystal-clear lakes. In the golden autumn season, the sky is azure, the trees ablaze with color, and the wind ripples the lake. Traveling along this route feels like viewing a vast art exhibition. And the artist behind these beautiful paintings is nature itself.
Climate: Temperate continental monsoon climate
Best travel time: Summer and autumn
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
All day
The Rehe Line, an important railway in Inner Mongolia, connects Chifeng City with key regions of the Mongolian plateau. The route has historical significance for trade and transportation between northern China and Mongolia. It is a major transportation corridor for both locals and tourists to explore the vast steppe and cultural heritage of the region.
The Rehe Line is located in Inner Mongolia, specifically passing through Chifeng City. You can reach Chifeng by train or flight from major cities like Beijing. Once in Chifeng, taxis and buses can take you to stations or scenic stops along the Rehe Line.
The Rehe Line operates throughout the year, with no specific opening hours as it is a railway route. However, the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the landscape is especially beautiful.
Tickets for travel along the Rehe Line can be purchased from railway stations or online through official Chinese railway websites or apps. Prices vary depending on the class and distance traveled, with average fares for standard seats around ¥100-¥300.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. You can book tickets up to 30 days before departure on official Chinese train booking platforms or apps.
Exploring the Rehe Line fully, including stops along the route, can take 1 to 2 days, depending on your interest in visiting local attractions or experiencing Mongolian culture. A day trip or overnight trip is ideal.
Guided tours may be available at certain stations or scenic stops along the Rehe Line, mostly in Chinese. It is best to inquire in advance. Audio guides in English are available for select tourist spots.
It is recommended to start your journey from Chifeng and travel through the key scenic areas, making stops at historical sites and villages along the way. A typical route includes visiting the grasslands, then stopping at Buddhist temples and nomadic camps.
Night visits and light shows are not commonly available along the Rehe Line itself, as the journey is mostly about daytime scenic exploration. Special tours may be available during major festivals.
The Rehe Line can be crowded during major holidays and summer months. The least crowded times are during spring or autumn, particularly weekdays.
The Rehe Line is mostly accessible, though some rural areas may have limited facilities for disabled visitors. The train itself offers basic accessibility, but it's recommended to check for specific needs when booking tickets.
Cash is generally accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are preferred in most places along the Rehe Line. Credit cards are not widely accepted in rural or remote areas.
Local restaurants and cafes offering traditional Inner Mongolian food, such as lamb and dairy products, are available near major stops. On the train, basic snacks and beverages are offered.
Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be limited. It is advisable to check in advance or bring your own food if you have specific dietary restrictions.
Souvenir shops are available in Chifeng and major stops along the route. Typical souvenirs include Mongolian jewelry, textiles, and local handicrafts such as felt items and traditional clothing.
From Chifeng, you can continue your journey by train, bus, or flight to other parts of Inner Mongolia or major cities like Beijing. Taxis and buses are available for local trips.