After visiting the Kangbashi Tourist Area four times, I finally figured it all out!

Address: Downtown area of Kangbashi District, Ordos City, Inner Mongolia (the area around the municipal government is the core)

Transportation:

* ✈️ By Air: Ordos Ejin Horo Airport (DSN). Airport shuttle buses go directly to Kangbashi, taking about 30 minutes; taxi fare is around ¥50.
* 🚄 By Train: Arrive at Ordos Station (Dongsheng), then transfer to Bus K21 directly to Kangbashi, taking about 50 minutes; taxi fare is around ¥40.
* 🚗 By Car: Navigate to "Ordos Municipal People's Government." Core attractions are concentrated, and parking is convenient.

Introduction:

Kangbashi is not a traditional scenic spot but a forward-planned, artistic modern grassland city! ⛰️ Wide streets, grand squares, unique architecture, and abundant greenery are its hallmarks, dispelling the "ghost city" myth. It’s especially vibrant on summer nights 🌆.

Travel Guide:

1. Genghis Khan Square & Four Cultural Landmarks (Must-Visit):
* Square: Features giant statues and grassland-themed sculptures. Don’t miss the musical fountain at 8 PM (spectacular scale!) 🎆.
* Museum: Shaped like a boulder, it’s the best place to learn about Mongolian history and culture (closed on Mondays) 📚.
* Library: Unique "book mountain" design, quiet ambiance, and a popular photo spot 📖.
* Grand Theater: Modern design with stunning night lighting 🎭.
* Cultural Arts Center: Often hosts exhibitions and events—check for luck.
2. Wulanmulun Lakeside Area (Leisure Highlight):
* Long riverside promenade perfect for cycling 🚴‍♀️ or strolling. Take the scenic train (¥30/person) for a relaxed tour.
* Offers a broader view of the musical fountain (same show as the square’s).
* Across the river is a large amusement park (ferris wheel, roller coasters, etc.).
3. Wedding Park (Romantic & Lesser-Known):
* European-style pavilions, flower lawns, and a hotspot for wedding photos with high photo potential 💐.

Tips:

* 🎯 Core Itinerary: Spend half a day exploring the square and landmarks + museum/library, then stroll Wulanmulun Lakeside at dusk for the fountain show. Allocate more time for museum visits.
* ⏰ Fountain Show: Summer (May–Oct) at 8:30 PM nightly (check official updates!). Arrive 30 mins early for front-row spots.
* 🚴 Transport: Attractions are close—use shared bikes or walk. The lakeside train is a must-try.
* 📅 Best Season: Summer (Jul–Sep) for lush greenery and activities. Winter is cold with monotonous scenery.
* 📷 Photography: Clear evenings offer stunning light on the landmarks. Wedding Park is best in daylight.
* 🧴 Essentials: Strong UV—pack sunscreen (hat, sunglasses, lotion)! Bring a jacket for temperature swings.

Food Recommendations:

* 🍖 Mongolian Cuisine:
* Iron Pot Stewed Noodles/Casserole: Hearty portions—try rib stewed noodles or pork with pickled cabbage (e.g., Zecheng Ice Boiled Lamb).
* Hand-Grabbed Meat/Grilled Lamb Ribs: Recommended spots: "Muren Gacha Mongolian Restaurant" or "Mengheng Amutusai" for authentic flavors.
* Lamb Shaomai: "Laosuiyuan Shaomai" chain offers reliable quality, thin wrappers, and generous fillings—great for breakfast 🥟.
* Pot Tea: Rich and savory, a must-try milk tea 🍵 (served with fried rice, milk skin, and dough twists).
* 🍲 Other Options: CBD area has chain restaurants (hot pot, stir-fries, etc.).

Accommodation:

* 🏨 Kangbashi Downtown: Convenient for sightseeing (e.g., Kaichuang, Boya Howard Johnson), with mature amenities.
* 🏡 Ordos Old Town (Dongsheng): Budget-friendly, lively local vibe, more dining options, ~20 mins by taxi to Kangbashi.
* 🛏 Near Wulanmulun Lake: Scenic views, ideal for leisure travelers (apartment-style homestays available).

Nearby Attractions:

* 🏜️ Xiangshawan (5A): China’s top desert destination (~1.5-hour drive)—try dune bashing, camel rides, or Lotus Sand Island Resort 🎪.
* 🏯 Genghis Khan Mausoleum (5A): A spiritual site for Mongolians (~50-minute drive) 🛕.
* 🌿 Ordos Grassland: Experience grassland activities (~1.5–2-hour drive) 🐎.
* ⛰️ Suboohan Grassland Tourist Area: Features traditional grassland wedding performances (~1.5-hour drive).

Final Thoughts: Kangbashi’s charm lies in its unique urban aesthetics—it’s more like an open-air art park and leisure space. Embrace a slow pace: cycle, stroll, enjoy the fountains, and feel the calm and warmth of this grassland city amidst its grandeur. That’s the true essence of "figuring it out." ✨