Hohhot City Guide

Local food features mutton, roasted lamb, milk tea, and dairy products. Some international options exist but limited. Vegetarian options are scarce. Late-night street food is available.

Nightlife includes KTVs, bars, and some nightclubs mostly for locals. The scene is modest but growing.

Growing coffee scene with chains and some independent cafes. Specialty coffee is limited.

Tipping is not common or expected. It may be refused in some places.

SIM cards are sold at official China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom stores. A passport is required for registration. eSIMs are not commonly available for tourists.

Street and waste management is generally good in central areas. Public restrooms vary.

Some pharmacies and minimarts operate late or 24/7. Major hospitals have emergency services 24/7.

Supermarkets stock local and some imported goods. Fresh markets are common for produce and meat. Stores open daily with most supermarkets open Sundays.

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are used almost everywhere. Cash is seldom accepted, especially by small vendors.

ATMs from major banks like Bank of China, ICBC, and China Construction Bank are common. International card fees may vary, but local withdrawals usually have no fee.

Local schools teach primarily in Mandarin. Limited international schools. Inner Mongolia Normal University Affiliated High School is reputable locally.

Very limited nomad community or meetups. Few nomad-friendly spaces.

Several parks and green spaces with shaded paths and running routes.

Parks like Genghis Khan Square offer running routes. Air quality can affect running in winter.

Modern gyms are available around the city.

Some tennis courts exist at sports centers and clubs, mostly hard courts.

Padel is not widely available.

Yoga studios are present. Instructors often Chinese-speaking; meditation centers are rare.

Martial arts schools teach Tai Chi, Sanda, Wing Chun, and boxing. English instruction is rare.

Nearby ski resorts like Mengliang Ski Resort are accessible within 1-2 hours. Season runs late Nov to March with mostly beginner terrain.

Limited boating on nearby lakes, but organized water sports are not available.

No surfing options; the city is inland.

No diving or snorkeling as the city is inland.

Public hospitals offer most care; private clinics are fewer. Some hospitals have limited English-speaking staff in certain departments.

Tap water is not safe to drink directly. Drink bottled or boiled water instead.

Public parks have playgrounds. Some cafes are family-friendly. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Inner Mongolia Museum and Zhaojun Tomb.

Conservative views prevail. No dedicated safe spaces or public events. Discretion advised.

Pet ownership is common but pet-friendly places are limited. Vet services and supplies are available.