Hongshiya Temple Tourist Area in Zhuozi County, Ulanqab

Hongshiya Ecological Tourism Area (红石崖生态旅游区) is a National 4A-rated scenic area located in Guanzhuangzi Village, Hongzhao Township, Zhuozi County, Ulanqab City, at the northern foot of the Daqing Mountains.

Centered around Hongshiya Temple (红石崖寺, also known as Jingu Temple 金龟寺), the scenic area features a unique combination of Buddhism and Taoism within the same temple complex. The striking red Danxia cliff landscape contrasts beautifully with more than 100,000 mu of alpine grasslands, creating a destination that combines temples, canyons, highland pastures, and a red culture memorial hall.

Located close to Hohhot, Hongshiya is a lesser-known summer escape destination for travelers from the Hohhot–Baotou region.

Address: Guanzhuangzi Village, Hongzhao Township, Zhuozi County, Ulanqab City

Basic Information

Opening Hours and Visiting Time

The scenic area is open 08:00–18:00 throughout the year, with admission stopping at 17:00. Some recreational activities may be unavailable during winter.

The recommended visiting time is about 3–4 hours, suitable for a one-day trip. Travelers who want a deeper experience can stay overnight nearby.

Best Travel Seasons

June to August (Summer): The alpine grasslands are covered with lush green vegetation, and the average temperature is around 18–22°C, making it an excellent destination for escaping summer heat.

September (Autumn): The weather is cool and refreshing, with clear layers between the red cliffs and grasslands. At sunset, sunlight turns the red cliffs into golden-red tones, creating outstanding photography opportunities.

Best photography locations: The main Hongshiya cliff during sunset and wide views of the alpine grasslands. A traditional temple fair is held on the second day of the sixth month of the lunar calendar, featuring a grand atmosphere and local cultural activities.

How to Get to Hongshiya Ecological Tourism Area

Self-Driving (Highly Recommended)

Driving is the most convenient way to visit Hongshiya. Search for “Hongshiya National Ecological Park (红石崖国家生态公园)” in navigation apps.

The scenic area is about 60 kilometers from Hohhot, taking around 1 hour by car. It is approximately 110 kilometers from Jining District, Ulanqab, requiring about 1.5–2 hours.

Visitors can exit from the Hongshiya or Baohe Shao Expressway exit. The roads are paved and suitable for ordinary private cars. The scenic area provides a large free parking lot, but there are many mountain curves, so drive carefully.

Public Transportation

There is no direct public bus service. Visitors can take a Hohhot–Zhuozi bus and transfer to a shared ride after arriving in Zhuozi County. Pure public transportation is not recommended due to limited convenience.

Private Car Charter

Private cars can be hired from Hohhot or Jining for a one-day round trip.

Tickets and Expenses (2026)

The entrance ticket is approximately 50–58 yuan for adults. Students receive half-price tickets. Visitors over 70 years old, children under 1.2 meters, military personnel, and visitors with disabilities can enter free of charge with valid identification.

The scenic area covers a large area and attractions are spread out, so purchasing the scenic area shuttle bus ticket is recommended.

Optional additional activities include the 9D glass suspension bridge, mountain slide, low-altitude cable car, hot springs, horseback riding, and boat rides. These activities are voluntary and do not require a package purchase.

Main Attractions and Highlights

Hongshiya Temple (Jingu Temple 金龟寺): Cultural Core of the Scenic Area

Hongshiya Temple was originally built during the Qing Dynasty. After being damaged, it was reconstructed between 2001 and 2008. It is a rare temple combining Buddhist and Taoist traditions.

The complex includes the Mahavira Hall, Heavenly Kings Hall, Sutra Library, Seven-Star Pagoda, and Bell and Drum Towers. On the mountainside, visitors can also find the Quanzhen Taoist buildings including Ju Xian Pavilion and Sanqing Hall.

The red temple architecture stands against the red mountain cliffs, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere. Photography is prohibited inside the halls. Visitors should remain quiet and respect religious customs when entering the temple area.

Hongshiya Danxia Main Cliff

The main cliff features approximately 30-meter-high crimson rock walls, showcasing the Danxia landform of the Daqing Mountains.

When the sunset light shines on the cliffs, the entire rock face turns bright red like fire. The surrounding red stone canyons are suitable for short and easy hikes, where the contrast between red rocks and green grasslands creates excellent photo opportunities.

Cloud-Level Alpine Grasslands and Vast Pastures

The rolling alpine meadows cover more than 100,000 mu of highland pasture. Visitors can see herds of cattle, sheep, and horses grazing across the grasslands.

From higher viewpoints, travelers can overlook the continuous mountain ranges of the Daqing Mountains, enjoying wide-open views. Traditional Mongolian ovoos (敖包) are also available, allowing visitors to experience local grassland culture.

Daqingshan Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall

This red culture exhibition hall introduces the history of the Daqingshan Anti-Japanese Base Area. Admission is free, making it suitable for educational and cultural visits.

Swan Lake (Artificial Reservoir)

Swan Lake is a mountain reservoir with clear water and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk along the lakeside wooden boardwalk and appreciate the quiet mountain scenery.

Recreational Experiences

The scenic area offers various activities including the 9D glass suspension bridge and mountain slide. Visitors can also enjoy Xiaowangfu Hot Spring, horseback riding in summer, and snow activities in winter.

Recommended Travel Route

Classic One-Day Tour Route

Visitor Center → Scenic Area Shuttle Bus → Hongshiya Temple (Temple + Taoist Buildings) → Hongshiya Danxia Main Cliff and Red Stone Canyon hiking → Alpine grassland viewpoints → Daqingshan Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall → Swan Lake → Optional glass suspension bridge or hot spring experience → Return trip.

Accommodation and Local Food

Accommodation Options

1. Stay in Hohhot or Jining District: Both cities offer better accommodation facilities and are suitable for a convenient one-day round trip.
2. Nearby Farm Stays and Mongolian Yurts: Accommodation options around the scenic area are limited, so advance reservations are recommended during peak seasons.

Dining options inside the scenic area are relatively simple. Bringing drinking water and snacks is recommended.

Local Cuisine

Recommended local specialties include Zhuozishan smoked chicken (卓资山熏鸡), hand-held lamb (手把肉), wild onion steamed buns (沙葱包子), youmian (莜面, traditional oat noodles), and milk tea.

Practical Travel Tips

1. Hongshiya is located in a high-altitude mountain area with large temperature differences between day and night. Even during summer, visitors should bring windproof jackets. Strong ultraviolet rays require sunscreen and hats.
2. Mountain paths and canyon areas have uneven surfaces. Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are recommended.
3. Visitors should dress appropriately in the temple area, avoid loud conversations, and do not use flash photography inside halls.
4. Winds can be strong in the mountains. The glass suspension bridge and cable cars may temporarily close during windy weather.
5. The scenic area includes forest and grassland areas with strict fire prevention rules. Open flames are prohibited, and visitors should stay on designated trails.

Nearby Attractions and Extended Routes

Hongshiya Temple can be combined with Huitengxile Huanghuagou Grassland (辉腾锡勒黄花沟), Zhuozishan Mountain (卓资山), Daihai Ski Resort (岱海滑雪场, winter), and Ulan Hada Volcano Group (乌兰哈达火山).

These destinations can be connected into a scenic Hohhot–Ulanqab self-driving loop, offering a diverse journey combining mountains, grasslands, volcanoes, and winter landscapes.