Qingshuihe County
What are the most recommended things to do in Qingshuihe County?
- Explore the natural landscapes, including grasslands and nearby hills, ideal for walking and photography.
- Visit local cultural sites such as temples, monuments, and historical villages.
- Attend regional festivals or cultural events to experience traditional Inner Mongolian customs.
- Sample local cuisine, including dairy products and traditional Mongolian dishes.
- Shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and locally made goods in town markets.
Introducing Qingshuihe County
Qingshuihe County, under the jurisdiction of Hohhot City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is located south of the city. Named after the Qingshui River, it lies within its boundaries. Located at the junction of the Inner Mongolia Plateau and the Loess Plateau, the county's geological structure lies in the transition zone between the Shanxi Platform Anticline and the Inner Mongolia Axis, resulting in diverse geological structures and rich natural landscapes.
The tourism resources here are rich and diverse, including the Ulanmulun grassland irrigated by the Qingshui River, the Shixiakou Ecological Scenic Area, the Ming Great Wall ruins, Laoniuwan, etc.
Climate and best time to travel
Temperate continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, best in summer and autumn
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended 2-day tour
Wulanmulun Grassland
Located in Honghe Town, Qingshuihe District, Hohhot City, the Ulan Mulun Grassland, translated from Mongolian as "Red River," covers a total area of nearly 6.6 million square meters, with an average elevation of over 1,100 meters and an average annual temperature of 7°C. It boasts a unique climate with cool summers.
Shixiakou
Shanxia Manor is located in the heart of the Shixiakou Ecological Scenic Area in Qingshuihe County, over 200 kilometers east of Xinzhou, Shanxi Province, 5 kilometers south of National Highway 109, 28 kilometers west of Qingshuihe County, and 130 kilometers north of Hohhot. The manor borders the Shixiakou Reservoir to the east, Shirenbei Mountain to the west, the Yaolinggou Ecological Nature Reserve to the south, and the former 5411th Unit arsenal to the north.
Ming Great Wall
The Ming Dynasty Great Wall ruins in Qingshuihe County represent the middle section of the Great Wall and a crucial section. It stretches 150 kilometers from Qingxin Village in the basin, crossing Jiucaizhuang and Beibao Townships to the Yellow River in the southwest. Centered around Kouzishang Village in Beibao Township, it served as a transportation hub and military fortress connecting the Outer and Inner Great Walls during the Ming Dynasty. Kouzishang is the highest point of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall ruins in Qingshuihe County, nestled between two high mountains at an altitude of 1,800 meters.
Most Popular FAQs for Qingshuihe County
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Qingshuihe County is part of Hohhot in Inner Mongolia. It has historical importance as a regional administrative center and reflects the blend of Han Chinese and Mongolian cultures. Its landscapes and heritage sites illustrate local history and traditional nomadic life.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Qingshuihe County is in southwestern Hohhot. Visitors can reach it by regional buses, taxis, or private car. Walking is convenient for exploring local villages, markets, and scenic areas.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
Attractions generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and summer are ideal for visiting due to pleasant weather and festival activities.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Most attractions are free or have nominal fees (¥10–¥50). Tickets can be purchased on-site; some cultural sites offer online booking options.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is recommended only for weekends, holidays, or festivals, ideally 1–2 days prior.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
1–2 days are sufficient to explore key cultural sites, scenic areas, and markets in the county.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Local temples and historical monuments.
- Grasslands and natural scenic spots.
- Traditional villages showcasing regional architecture.
- Markets and cultural centers for handicrafts and local goods.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are mainly in Chinese. English-language tours are limited and usually require advance arrangement through local travel agencies.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Grasslands and hills for landscape photography.
- Traditional temples and monuments for cultural shots.
- Festivals and markets for dynamic, candid photography.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start with cultural and historical sites in the morning, explore local markets and villages midday, and finish with scenic grasslands or viewpoints in the afternoon.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are limited, but some town centers and festival events may offer evening cultural performances or light displays.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Weekdays are less crowded. Festivals, weekends, and public holidays see moderate to high visitor traffic.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Facilities include public toilets, local eateries, small cafes, water points, rest areas, and souvenir shops near major attractions.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Most urban areas and markets are accessible. Some older temples or hilly scenic spots may have limited accessibility for disabled or elderly visitors.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash, cards, and mobile payments are widely accepted. Smaller vendors may prefer cash or mobile payments via popular apps.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local restaurants serving Mongolian and Chinese cuisine.
- Street food stalls offering traditional snacks.
- Small cafes with beverages and light meals in town.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are usually available. Halal options may require prior inquiry or visiting specific restaurants.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
Options include budget hotels, mid-range inns, and guesthouses near town centers and major attractions.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Hohhot city cultural and historical sites.
- Grasslands and natural scenic areas in Inner Mongolia.
- Other nearby counties with historical or cultural landmarks.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Souvenirs include traditional crafts, local snacks, dairy products, and cultural items representative of Inner Mongolian heritage.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
Regional buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services provide access to Hohhot city, nearby counties, and other attractions in Inner Mongolia.