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The Daiqintala Acer truncatum Nature Reserve, located at the southern foot of the Greater Khingan Range and the northernmost edge of the Horqin Desert, is a nature reserve primarily dedicated to protecting sparse Acer truncatum and elm forests and rare bird habitats. It covers a total area of 61,641.3 hectares.
This area is rich in ecological diversity, integrating open forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It is a native, diverse, and structurally complex ecosystem. When people think of maple trees, they may think of the red leaves of Beijing's Xiangshan Mountains. But who would have thought that the vast, emerald Horqin grasslands would also contain a magical maple forest, which evokes the romantic feeling of "geese cry amidst crimson leaves, and people intoxicated by the Yellow Emperor."
Every year after the autumn frost, the maple trees are renowned for their vibrant and unique colors. They become a focal point for visitors and photographers alike. From afar, the maple forests blanket the mountains, suffusing the sky with crimson hues. Up close, the leaves are diverse in shape and color, interspersed with dense and sparse patterns. It's like stepping into a fairytale, a dreamlike experience, truly like "walking through the woods is like wandering through a painting."
Temperate continental monsoon climate, summer and autumn are the best times for travel.
1-3 hours
50 yuan per person, bargaining is available for larger groups.
All day
The Daiqintala Acer truncatum forest is significant for its unique collection of Acer truncatum trees, known for their beautiful foliage and ecological role in the region. The trees are important for the local environment, providing natural resources for local communities and contributing to the biodiversity of Inner Mongolia. This area also holds cultural importance for the Mongolian people.
The Daiqintala Acer truncatum forest is located near Ulanhot, Inner Mongolia, China. You can reach the site by taxi or bus from Ulanhot city. It is about a 30-minute drive from the city center. There is no metro service in the area, so private transportation or taxis are the most convenient options.
The Daiqintala Acer truncatum forest is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn. Autumn, particularly in September and October, offers the most stunning views as the Acer truncatum trees turn golden-yellow. The forest is less crowded during weekdays and in the early mornings or late afternoons.
The entrance fee is typically around ¥30-¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. There is no need for online reservations, though it is advisable to check with local authorities for any seasonal pricing or special discounts.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Daiqintala Acer truncatum forest. However, during peak tourist seasons such as summer or major holidays, it is a good idea to book tickets in advance to avoid long wait times.
A visit typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend walking through the trails and photographing the scenery. If you wish to take a guided tour or explore nearby areas, you may want to allocate a bit more time.
Guided tours are available, with most guides speaking Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available during peak tourist seasons, but it's advisable to book in advance. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese for self-guided tours.
Start your visit by walking along the main trail that leads you into the forest. Explore the Acer truncatum grove, then head towards the viewpoints for a wider perspective. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed walk back along the same trail, taking time to photograph the scenery. If you have more time, explore the smaller trails branching off the main route.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Daiqintala Acer truncatum forest. The site is primarily a daytime attraction, offering serene walks and nature experiences. For a special tour, it is best to plan visits during the daytime when natural light enhances the scenery.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer and autumn months. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly early mornings or late afternoons. The least crowded times are usually in the spring and fall outside of major holidays.
There are basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls offering local snacks, and rest areas available at the entrance. It is advisable to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to spend extended time exploring the trails. There are small shops selling souvenirs near the entrance.
The main areas of the Daiqintala Acer truncatum forest are accessible to elderly and children, but some of the trails may not be suitable for people with limited mobility. It is recommended to check the terrain in advance, as there may be some uneven paths along the hiking routes.
Cash is often preferred for ticket purchases and small transactions at the forest entrance. However, mobile payments (such as Alipay or WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in the area. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially in more remote regions.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the restaurants in Ulanhot, though it is more common to find meat-focused dishes. Halal food is available in some restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
Souvenir shops near the forest entrance offer traditional Mongolian crafts, such as woolen textiles, jewelry, and handmade goods. Local snacks and herbal products are also popular items to purchase as souvenirs.
