Lively and colorful performances are staged at a scenic area in Hohhot. [Photo/Hohhot news network]

The city of Hohhot, capital of North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, welcomed a massive surge in tourists, taking it to a record 3.66 million domestic visitors during the recent eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays.

That figure was 6.28 times higher than the same period last year, contributing to total domestic tourism revenue of 2.61 billion yuan ($358 million) for the period. 

During the break, Hohhot tapped into its rich cultural heritage and created lively and engaging cultural tourism events. The city organized the 2023 Shaomai Food Culture Creative Exhibition, highlighting Hohhot's great culinary offerings.

Elsewhere, the street performance of The Princess Zhaojun's Imperial Marriage evoked the city's historical and cultural charms.

These diversions came in the wake of an initiative called the Qingcheng Roaming Plan, which was rolled out to help folks explore the city's urban culture. Such initiatives aimed to make Hohhot a trendy destination during the holidays.

Residents and visitors stroll through Saishang Old Street in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia. [Photo/WeChat account of Wenlyu Qingcheng]

The renowned Saishang Old Street received over 1 million visitors during the period, further establishing its reputation as a popular tourist spot. Another hot favorite was Naobao village, which welcomed around 630,000 visitors, offering an authentic rural experience.

Hohhot's efforts to promote its cultural attractions and unique experiences are widely said to have proven immensely successful during the holidays. The influx of tourists not only boosted the local economy but also highlighted the rich heritage and charms of Hohhot as a hidden gem for travelers.