6 Days in Bashang in Golden Autumn | Galloping through Ulan Butong, a Feast of Autumn Colors

Day 1 Beijing★Gathering Day

All day

On the day of the full-day activity, you will travel to Beijing on your own. Upon arrival at the hotel, you will need to provide your "China-Travel Note + Name" to check in. Early arrivals will have the entire day free to move around.


Recommended travel:

1. Tiananmen Square - National Museum - Palace Museum - Beihai Park - Shichahai

2. Temple of Heaven - Summer Palace - Old Summer Palace - Lama Temple

3. Universal Studios - Bird's Nest


Urban transportation:

Airport A: Capital International Airport/Daxing International Airport. Capital International Airport is closer to the city center, and there are buses/subways/coaches from the airport to the city center.

B Railway Station: There are 5 railway stations in the city, among which Beijing South Railway Station, Beijing Railway Station and Beijing West Railway Station are high-speed railway stations. It is recommended to choose high-speed railway as the main transportation to Beijing.


Food recommendations:

A. Traditional Beijing Cuisine: Nanmen Hot Pot (Temple of Heaven), Siji Minfu Roast Duck (Qianmen Langfang Ertiao):

B. Other snacks: Haiwanju (Zengguang Road), Menkuang Hutong Centennial Luzhu (Qianmen Store), Baodu Feng (Langfang Ertiao Store), Yinsan Douzhi (Temple of Heaven Store)

Day 2 Beijing → Ulan Butong

·morning

After breakfast, we'll depart for our journey north, marking the beginning of our grassland journey! Our onboard guide will guide you through the area, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable journey. Enjoy lunch at the service area/paddock, where you'll savor the generous portions of traditional northern cuisine and experience the generosity of the people. You can also purchase some fruit for your journey.

·afternoon

In the afternoon, we'll enter the Ulan Butong Grassland, enjoying the autumn scenery of rolling hills and meadows, vast forests, and herds of cattle, sheep, and horses. Upon arrival at the hotel, Mongolian women and men in their finest attire will offer dismounting wine, showcasing the warm hospitality of the grassland people.

After checking in, rest up for a while. Dinner will be specially prepared by China-TravelNote, featuring authentic northern Chinese cuisine and a secret roast lamb leg. After dinner, enjoy the "China-TravelNote Grassland Night," a Mongolian song and dance evening: enjoy the wonderful song and dance performances by the grassland people and experience a magical night on the grassland!


Kind tips:

1. A team of 10 or more people will be given a free secret roasted lamb leg;

2. The China-TravelNote Grassland Night song and dance evening is a complimentary event. If there are fewer than 20 people or in case of rain, it will be cancelled or postponed and held together with other China-TravelNote groups. The group leader may adjust the arrangements based on the specific circumstances of the day.

Driving time: about 420km, 6h

Day 3: Ulan Butong (Sunrise at the Film and Television Base - Migration Ceremony at the Private Ranch - Princess Lake - Horseback Riding in Panlong Canyon)

·morning

Early this morning, we headed to Beigou to watch the sunrise. This grassland filming location ("Wolf Totem," "The Orphan of Zhao," and "The Legend of Zhen Huan" were filmed here) is renowned for its unique, stratospheric morning mist. We captured the beautiful moment of the sun slowly rising over the grassland horizon with our camera before returning to the hotel for breakfast.

·morning

In autumn, Wulan Butong cleverly blends the grandeur and romance of the grassland. The golden expanse, set against a backdrop of blue sky and white clouds, feels like stepping into a fairytale world.

In the morning, we visited the secret primitive Mongolian tribe, participated in a <Nomadic Migration-Celebration Ceremony>, and became authentic Mongolians.

Since ancient times, nomadic peoples of the grasslands have lived wherever they moved, their homes defined by a horse-drawn cart, a yurt, and lush pastures. Here, we'll experience the fascinating ancient horse-drawn cart activities, the thrilling "Three Arts of Man" (horse racing, archery, and wrestling), and enjoy interactive games...

·afternoon

In the afternoon, we will drive to Princess Lake, also known as "Blue Siegger's Tears". The birch forest and log cabins create a small Nordic scenery. Under the blue sky and white clouds, the autumn colors are quiet and beautiful. Here we will enjoy a wonderful equestrian show.

Afterward, we'll travel to the Panlong Grand Canyon, located in the lower reaches of the Xilamulun River, where we'll experience horseback riding (at your own expense). Under the guidance and instruction of a horseman, we'll deeply experience the thrill of riding outdoors. (Carefully read the China-TravelNote Horseback Riding Guide and always pay attention to safety when riding.) Tourists who prefer not to ride can opt for a vantage point to admire the winding river in the canyon, towering birch trees, and the golden autumn scenery of the hilly grasslands of Bashang.


Kind tips:

1. During outdoor activities, pay attention to sun protection, drink water in time, and keep your valuables safe;

2. Traffic jams may occur occasionally in Bashang in autumn, so the itinerary will be adjusted according to the actual situation on that day.

3. Since horseback riding is not something everyone is interested in, it is a self-funded activity. The recommended fee is RMB 150 per person (approximately 1 hour, usually led by a horseman or camel driver).

4. In case of severe weather such as strong winds or rain that affects horse riding, the activity will be cancelled.

Driving time: 80km round trip, 2 hours

Hiking: about 2 km, about 1 hour

Day 4: Ulan Butong (Full Day) (Off-Road Vehicle Tour: Ulan Butong Grassland - Xilin Gol Grassland - China-TravelNote Private Camp - Hunshandake Sandy Land)

·morning

After breakfast, we'll transfer to a designated off-road vehicle and begin our exploration of the hidden grasslands! This is a hidden gem that 99% of us haven't yet explored. We'll traverse the twin grasslands of Wulanbutong and Xilin Gol, enjoying breathtaking scenery along the way. The Bashang Grasslands in autumn are a must-see, with thousands of miles of golden scenery and vibrant forests. Enjoy the tranquility and vastness of the grasslands. Arrive at the China-TravelNote Bashang Pastoral Camp at noon, where we'll treat you to a luxurious wild and luxurious "Muye Cloud Banquet" for a relaxing getaway.

·afternoon

After lunch, a grassland sports carnival begins. Experience the joys of nomadic life with pot-throwing, archery, and wrestling. Reminisce about childhood fun with rope skipping, tug-of-war, kangaroo jumps, and the viral frisbee game. Or, take photos in Mongolian costumes and feel like a true master of the north.

After enjoying the fun, we'll continue our journey through Yushu Nuanshui. On Aobao Mountain, we'll join our guide in offering sacrifices and blessings to the Aobao. We'll then reach the Hunshandake Sandy Land, one of China's ten largest sandy lands, a blend of grassland and desert. We'll experience the thrill of sandboarding and the thrill of rolling sand waves. Afterward, we'll return to the hotel for a rest. Dinner will be at our leisure in the town.


Kind tips:

1. Due to the high volume of visitors during the National Day holiday, some groups will advance the [off-road crossing trip] to the third day, which will not affect the overall activity experience;

2. China-TravelNote: The private campsite is located in the heart of the grasslands. Please pay attention to protecting the environment. Transportation of supplies is also very inconvenient. Tourists are also advised to be frugal when eating and not waste.

3. The sandboarding experience will be arranged in the Hunshandake Sandy Land (not a scenic area). Please do it according to your ability and pay attention to safety. If there are any policy issues, the experience will be cancelled.

4. The grassland is vast, and the off-road vehicle route is composed of various gachas or nomadic tribes. The off-road vehicle route will be adjusted according to the weather and on-site conditions of the day;

5. Offering sacrifices to Aobao is a sacrificial activity of the Mongolian people. You must turn three circles from left to right and make your wish. The gods will bless you to make your dream come true!

Driving time: 120km round trip, 2 hours

Day 5 Ulan Butong → Luyuan → Luanping/Chengde

All day

After breakfast, we'll drive to the Royal Deer Park, where herds of sika deer, alpacas, and prairie wolves roam freely. You can buy a carrot to feed the adorable deer and get up close and personal with these grassland spirits. In autumn, the dam is ablaze with golden color, and under the blue sky and white clouds, it feels like stepping into a golden fairy tale. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a roe deer. Afterward, we'll depart Ulan Butong, bidding farewell to this European-style grassland.

·afternoon

We left the Bashang Grassland in the afternoon and passed through the forest farm at the border of Hebei and Inner Mongolia. We gradually said goodbye to the grassland and arrived at Luanping Hotel in the evening to check in and enjoy dinner at our own convenience.


Kind tips:

1. You can feed the animals at close range in the deer park. Carrots cost 10 yuan each (self-provided). Be careful not to injure the deer antlers during feeding.

2. Pay attention to sun protection during outdoor activities and keep your personal belongings safe.

3. The drive this afternoon will be long, so you can buy some snacks in advance to enjoy on the way.

Driving time: about 250km, 5h

Day 6 Luanping/Chengde → Jinshanling Great Wall → Beijing ★ Disbandment Day

·morning

After breakfast, we'll travel by bus to Jinshanling Great Wall. This section of the Great Wall boasts winding, undulating walls, boasting towers of varying shapes, complex structures, and densely packed terraces. Its breathtaking, treacherous, and unique character are the essence of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, earning it the reputation of "Jinshanling stands out among the ten thousand miles of the Great Wall." This section is the best-preserved section of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. From September to October, the Great Wall is bathed in the enchanting colors of autumn, creating a captivating scene.

·afternoon

After enjoying the tour, we will return to Beijing by bus, arriving in Beijing at approximately 14:30 (disband near Sanyuanqiao subway station/Beijing South Railway Station).


Kind tips:

1. High-speed rail return trip: It is recommended to book a train after 16:30. If the return trip falls on a holiday, please delay the return trip appropriately.

2. Return flight: It is recommended to book flights after 17:30 (Beijing Capital Airport). For Daxing Airport, it is recommended to book flights after 18:30.

Driving time: about 150km, 2.5h

Q1: Can I use Alipay or other mobile payment methods wherever I go? Do I still need to bring cash?

A1: Most of them support mobile payment such as WeChat and Alipay, but the grassland conditions are limited, so you still need to prepare some cash, such as for meals, buying fruits on the way, and participating in horseback riding (horseback riding fee is 200-400 yuan/person, please refer to the itinerary for specific details) and other self-funded activities.


Q2: Meals are generally not included during the trip. Is it convenient to eat? How much does each meal cost?

A2: Northern cuisine is very filling. A family of three will usually order two dishes, but larger groups can order more. The cost is 30-50 RMB per person per meal (depending on your budget). Since we attract customers from all corners of the globe, and their tastes vary, China-TravelNote encourages you to explore local cuisine to your own tastes, so meals are not included. In the Bashang Grassland of Ulan Butong, we stayed at Hongshan Military Horse Farm. The town has a wide variety of restaurants, allowing us to try different ones every day. Since dining options are limited along the way, we mostly ate at lunch, so we could choose simple dishes like noodles and dumplings.


Q3: What is the weather like in autumn on Bashang Grassland? What should I do if it rains?

A3: The grassland sky is like a child's face. One characteristic is its unpredictability. You can witness sunrise in the east and rain in the west on the grassland. But grassland weather also has another characteristic: its rapidity. Rain can quickly clear up, and with luck, you might even see a double or triple rainbow. Of course, be fully prepared when you're out and about. Rain gear is recommended, just in case. Autumn grasslands are mostly sunny, and the chance of seeing clouds and mist at sunrise is high. However, the autumn winds can be harsh, so be sure to take precautions.
In the event of rain, the tour leader will determine whether to adjust the tour order based on the severity of the rain. Generally, even light rain will continue with the scheduled itinerary. If you encounter heavy rain and haven't set out yet, rest at the hotel and wait until the rain subsides before departing.


Q4: What should I wear when visiting Bashang Grassland in autumn?

A4: The average autumn temperature on the Bashang Grassland ranges from -5°C to 10°C, with a significant difference between morning and evening. Another factor is perceived temperature, which refers to the body's perception of heat and cold. For example, some people are sensitive to cold, while others are resistant to it; everyone's perceived temperature varies. Simply put, when visiting the grasslands in autumn, dress primarily for autumn and winter. If you're usually cold-sensitive or traveling with children or the elderly, be sure to bring a thick down jacket for sunrises and stargazing. Women can bring a scarf or hat for both photo opportunities and warmth. Wear fleece jeans (long johns are recommended if necessary) and comfortable sneakers. A three-piece windbreaker is generally ideal. Snow is possible during the National Day holiday, so be sure to bring adequate cold-weather gear.
Note: Autumn winds can be strong and the grasslands dry, so be sure to bring lip balm and hand cream.


Q5: What are the adult and children's prices for Bashang Grassland?

A5: Please refer to the "Fee" section for details and carefully read the inclusions and exclusions. Child rates apply to children under 1.4m, without occupying a bed, breakfast, or entrance fees.

1. If a child is around 1.4m tall, they can register based on whether they need to occupy a bed (a family of three only needs one room and can register 2 adults and 1 child. Tickets need to be paid in advance).

2. If your child is over 12 years old and taller than 1.5 meters, we recommend you quote the adult rate. (If a family of three only needs one room, you can quote three adults and get a refund of the room difference. This way, the child doesn't occupy a bed or breakfast, but does include the entrance fee. The discounted entrance fee difference will be refunded to the tour leader according to the scenic area's policy.)
Note: The hotel's bed and breakfast are bundled together. Breakfast is included if you occupy a bed, but not included if you don't. If you do not occupy a bed and need breakfast, please pay for it according to the hotel's regulations. Please contact the hotel front desk for specific prices and pay in cash.


Q6: Can I check in later on the day of the Beijing meeting? If I arrive in Beijing early, can I stay at the designated meeting hotel?

A6: The first day is a full-day gathering day. Simply check into the designated hotel that evening. Hotel information will be based on the travel text message sent three days in advance. Please contact customer service if you require advance information on the meeting hotel. Since summer is peak season in Beijing, hotel availability is limited. Group rooms are typically reserved six months in advance, with adjustments made later based on the number of applicants. Furthermore, hotels generally require a minimum of 10 rooms to qualify for group rates. Therefore, it's not possible to book hotels at negotiated rates during the summer. We recommend booking through major hotel booking platforms for better value.

Note: Autumn has entered the grassland fire prevention period, smoking is prohibited on the grassland!