South Korean tourists arrive at Hohhot Baita International Airport. [Photo/WeChat account of Wenlyu Qingcheng]

The first group of 180 South Korean tourists landed on July 18 at Hohhot Baita International Airport – located in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia autonomous region – on a charter flight from Seoul-Incheon.

It marked the start of a special charter service that will run for one and a half months.

From July 17 to Aug 31, 14 inbound flights will operate every Wednesday and Saturday using Boeing B738 aircraft, bringing an estimated 2,280 South Korean tourists to Hohhot.

The visitors are scheduled to embark on tours lasting four days and three nights, or five days and four nights.

The first group is exploring the Hohhot-Baotou-Ordos economic zone, visit key tourist sites and checking out local natural wonders.

The itinerary includes a walk through Saishang Old Street and a visit to the Zhaojun Museum – as well as experiencing the vastness of the Resonant Sand Bay and enjoying the lush Xilamuren Grassland, where the visitors will experience traditional Mongolian life and culture.

The initiative is part of Inner Mongolia's efforts to enhance its inbound tourism, with policies aimed at attracting more visitors and creating premium travel experiences.

According to Baita International Airport staff members, this is the first Seoul flight since 2016 – re-establishing an important link for economic, cultural and tourism exchanges between the two regions.