Things To Do
in Chifeng

Chifeng, located in Inner Mongolia, China, is a city rich in history and culture, with a breathtaking blend of natural landscapes and historical sites. Known as the 'City of the Red Flag,' it serves as a gateway to the stunning grasslands and the vast Gobi Desert. The area is home to various ethnic groups, contributing to a vibrant local culture.

Visitors can explore ancient relics, experience authentic Mongolian traditions, and enjoy the beautiful scenery that surrounds the city.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chifeng Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history and the ancient cultures that inhabited the area.

afternoon
:

Head to the Wulanchabu Grassland for a scenic picnic and to experience traditional Mongolian horse riding.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Mongolian hot pot, followed by a stroll through the vibrant night market.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Yinshan Mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the famous Nao'er Dune, a unique sand dune formation, and try sandboarding or simply enjoy the beauty of the desert.

evening
:

Relax at a cozy café downtown, sipping on local herbal tea and enjoying the atmosphere before retiring for the night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$4
Cup of Coffee$2
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$30
🏞️Hiking Permit$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Limited English proficiency among locals.
  • Public transportation may be less developed than in major cities.
  • Some tourist attractions may be far apart, requiring transportation.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问洗手间在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我想要这个" - I want this
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Chifeng

Visit one of these nice places.

Yinshan Mountains

A stunning backdrop for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset, with unique rock formations and panoramic views.

Nao'er Dune

A picturesque sand dune that creates beautiful contrasts during golden hour, ideal for landscape photography.

Chifeng City Park

A scenic park featuring traditional architecture, gardens, and a serene lake, perfect for capturing local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chifeng

Chifeng boasts a delightful culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage, where traditional Mongolian flavors blend with local ingredients.

Chifeng Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mongolian Hot Pot

A communal dish where diners cook various meats, vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful broth.

Must-Try!

Roast Lamb

A classic Mongolian dish where lamb is marinated and roasted to perfection, often served with steamed buns.

Milk Tea

A traditional drink made from black tea mixed with milk and salt, often enjoyed with meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chifeng Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street foods, including skewers, dumplings, and fried snacks.

Street Food Stalls at Wulanchabu Grassland

Enjoy local snacks and refreshing drinks while taking in the natural beauty of the grasslands.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chifeng experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are mild, offering comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. The region receives low rainfall, primarily in summer, making it suitable for exploring the natural landscapes. Winter temperatures can drop below -10°C (14°F), while summer highs can reach 35°C (95°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common, and it's polite to greet elders first when entering a room.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, wait for the host to start before eating, and use chopsticks properly to show respect.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites, to show respect for local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chifeng is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and take care of personal belongings. It's also essential to respect local customs and laws, particularly regarding cultural sites and traditions.

Tipping in Chifeng

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in restaurants, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, alongside cash, especially in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the grasslands as flowers bloom.

Summer

Summer can get hot, with temperatures reaching over 30°C (86°F). Early morning or late evening outings are recommended.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be quite cold with snow, offering opportunities for winter sports but requiring warm clothing.

Nightlife Guide

Chifeng at Night

Chifeng offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with local bars and cafés featuring live music and cultural performances. The night market is vibrant and bustling, providing a unique atmosphere to enjoy local snacks and drinks. Some venues host traditional Mongolian performances, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local culture while socializing with both locals and travelers.

Hiking in Chifeng

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yinshan Mountain Trail

This trail offers a moderate hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Naobao Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that leads to a beautiful summit, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the region.

Airports

How to reach Chifeng by plane.

Chifeng Yulong Airport

Located approximately 16 kilometers from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international services, connecting Chifeng to major cities across China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chifeng's city center is quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and dining options within close proximity. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and walking is a pleasant way to explore the local culture. However, some areas may require transportation, especially when venturing to natural attractions outside the city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Chifeng, comprising a significant portion of the population and influencing local culture and cuisine.

Mongolian Ethnic Minorities

Mongolian communities contribute to the region's cultural diversity, with unique traditions, language, and customs that enrich the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Horse Racing

A traditional sport in Inner Mongolia, horse racing events are popular during festivals and attract many spectators.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played among locals, with various amateur leagues and community matches throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chifeng can be moderate, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. However, it's advisable to plan travel times accordingly, as traffic congestion can occur, especially in the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chifeng.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including stir-fried vegetables and tofu.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some restaurants provide gluten-free dishes; however, it's advisable to ask the staff for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Chifeng has several hospitals and clinics, offering basic healthcare services. Major hospitals are equipped for emergencies, but English-speaking staff may be limited. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry necessary medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide