Plan at a glance
The Sun Plaza (太阳广场) core area
Sun Plaza is the main starting point for visiting the core area of Chilechuan Grassland. The landscape has undergone ecological restoration and is managed as a suburban recreation area, not an unmanaged natural pasture. Grassland, views toward Daqing Mountain (大青山), and walking paths are concentrated around the plaza; farther points require separate transfer arrangements.
How much time to allow
Allow about 1 hour for Sun Plaza and nearby paths. If you take a vehicle and stop at Aobao Xianghui (敖包相会) or Moon Lake (月亮湖), allow 2 to 3 hours. Confirm the last departure for sightseeing vehicles and other services before setting out.
Grassland, lake, and facilities
The area includes grassland, views of Daqing Mountain, Moon Lake, walking paths, and seasonal family and riding activities. Grass color and available activities vary with the season and weather.
Tickets and visit details
View visit options for this attraction and confirm the visit date and current arrangements before you go.
Choose your visit
See the main sights by vehicle
A sightseeing vehicle or small train suits visitors who want to walk less. At Sun Plaza, check the day’s route, stops, and last departure. Do not assume you can get on and off anywhere, and do not rely on an old fare.
Walk by the lake and along the paths
For a walking visit, combine Sun Plaza, Moon Lake, and open paths, and turn back when you have had enough. The grounds are extensive; do not cut across the grass or enter closed areas.
Family visits and activities
With children, start near Sun Plaza and check whether riding or interactive activities suitable for their age are available that day. Confirm age limits, prices, and safety requirements on site, and have an adult accompany them. Animal photo opportunities are not guaranteed.
Photography and seasonal scenery
The Sun Plaza landmark, grassland, distant mountains, aobao (敖包), and lakeshore all make good subjects. Haystacks in autumn depend on that year’s harvest and setup. Secure your equipment in strong winds and watch your footing.
For the separate mountain grassland at Huanghuawopu, see Chilechuan Alpine Grassland.
For a separately ticketed horse-culture performance with its own venue and seasonal dates, see Eternal Horse Ode.
Build your day
The 1-hour short walk
Start at Sun Plaza, take in the plaza and the view toward Daqing Mountain, then walk along nearby open paths and return the same way. This short route does not include a sightseeing vehicle. For Moon Lake, Aobao Xianghui, or other farther points, confirm vehicle stops and the last departure, and allow another 2 to 3 hours.
The 2- to 3-hour core-area route
First check whether sightseeing vehicles are running, where they stop, and when the last one leaves. Choose one or two farther points, such as Moon Lake or Aobao Xianghui; walk around after getting off, then take a vehicle back to Sun Plaza. If walking the whole way, stay on open paths near the plaza, turn back the same way, and leave enough time for the return.
Sunset and closing times
Public paths, site management, sightseeing vehicles, and activities each have their own opening or operating hours, and event schedules may change them. An “open all day” listing for a public area does not mean vehicles and activities run into the evening. Do not treat arrival after 6:30 p.m. as a standard sunset route unless it has been confirmed. To see the sunset, first check that day’s entry arrangements and the vehicles’ last departure; if extended hours have not been confirmed, leave before the published closing time.
Leaving and nearby plans
Return to Sun Plaza or the exit designated that day, and check the last bus, pickup point, and parking location. Nao Bao Cultural Tourism Town (恼包文旅小镇) can be a separate visit; check its transfer and opening arrangements independently. Do not treat the grassland sightseeing vehicle as a shuttle between the two places.
Get there
Navigate to Sun Plaza
Search for “Chilechuan Grassland Sun Plaza” (敕勒川草原太阳广场). The grassland covers a large area, and a general search for the scenic area may send you to its outskirts. Follow on-site directions for parking and the entrance.
Sightseeing bus
Hohhot has a dedicated sightseeing bus route to Chilechuan Grassland. Check stops, frequency, seasonal service, and the last bus on the day of your visit. Service may change during events; do not rely on an old timetable.
Taxi and driving
For a taxi or car, navigate to Sun Plaza and allow time for the trip from the city center to the suburbs. Follow on-site instructions for parking and temporary traffic controls. On event days, check traffic notices before you leave.
Know before you go
Opening hours and sunset visits
Public areas, paths, sightseeing vehicles, and activities may have different opening or operating hours, and event schedules can change them. Before setting out, confirm site arrangements, path access, and the vehicles’ last departure separately. Summer evening service applies only on specific dates; it does not mean you can enter or take a vehicle after 6:30 p.m. every day.
Admission and in-area charges
The public area is free to enter; sightseeing vehicles, small trains, and other activities charge separately. Before buying a ticket, check the route, stops, price, and riding rules. Activity prices may change with the season.
Weather and walking safety
Many areas of the grassland have little shade. Bring water and sun protection on sunny days, and prepare for changing temperatures and wind in spring and autumn. Stay on open paths and boardwalks, and return to a well-lit area with confirmed transport before dark.