
Located in the Halagetu Farm in the Ulagai Administrative District of Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Bingtuan Town is the former site of the 51st Regiment of the Inner Mongolia Production and Construction Corps, preserving intact buildings from the Corps era. Bingtuan Town rose to public attention in 2015 with the release of the film "Wolf Totem."
"White and yellow winds blow from spring to winter; the snow melts in May and freezes again in September; the wind blows the cattle and sheep away, and they wear cotton jackets in June." This was the real situation here back then.
This is one of the best-preserved natural grasslands in the world. It also has historical and cultural relics such as the Burin Temple, Genghis Khan's Border Wall, Gulabsai Khan Oboo, as well as the unique Mongolian customs of the Ujumchin tribe.
The climate is temperate continental, and summer and autumn are the best times for travel.
3 hours
40 yuan/person
Corps Town, located in Inner Mongolia's Xilingol League, was originally a military settlement built to support the development of the region. It has historical significance for its role in the expansion and defense of the area. The town showcases the fusion of Mongolian culture and military influence, making it a unique cultural destination.
Corps Town is located in the Xilingol League of Inner Mongolia. The easiest way to reach it is by car, either by private vehicle or taxi, as public transportation options are limited. The nearest large city, Hohhot, is about a 3-hour drive away.
Corps Town is generally accessible year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscapes are at their most scenic. Winter can be harsh, and summer may see higher numbers of tourists.
There is no official entrance fee to Corps Town, as it is a public area. However, there may be fees for special activities or tours. Tickets for activities can be purchased on-site or via local tour agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons or plan to participate in guided tours. If booking a tour, try to arrange it 1-2 days in advance.
A visit to Corps Town typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each historical site and exploring the surroundings. If you're partaking in activities like horseback riding, it could take longer.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and may be offered in English upon request. Audio guides might be available in Chinese, but English options are limited. It's best to arrange a guide in advance if you require an English-speaking one.
Start by exploring the historical barracks and memorials, then take a walk through the town to enjoy the natural scenery. Afterward, visit any ongoing cultural activities, and if available, join a local horse-riding tour to explore the surrounding area.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available in Corps Town. However, special cultural tours or activities may be held during festivals or peak seasons, which can be arranged in advance.
The town is generally less crowded outside of peak holiday seasons. Weekdays, especially early mornings, are the least crowded times to visit. Avoid visiting during Chinese national holidays, as these are the busiest times.
Basic facilities like public toilets and rest areas are available in Corps Town. There are a few local restaurants offering Mongolian food, but for more variety, it's advisable to visit nearby towns. Limited souvenir shops are available for local crafts.
Corps Town is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, but some areas, particularly the historical sites and natural landscapes, may have uneven paths or stairs. It is not fully wheelchair-friendly, so visitors with mobility impairments should take caution or contact the town in advance for specific accommodations.
While cash is still widely used, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted in Corps Town, especially in restaurants and shops. It’s advisable to carry both cash and a mobile payment option just in case.
Vegetarian options may be limited in traditional Mongolian cuisine, but there are some dishes like vegetables and dumplings. Halal food options are more readily available in the nearby towns, which cater to a diverse population.
There are small souvenir shops in Corps Town selling Mongolian handicrafts, such as woolen garments, leather products, and traditional jewelry. Local artworks and felt products are also popular items to bring home.