How to get to Baotou

If you have decided to travel to Baotou, the largest city in Inner Mongolia, China, get ready to explore a dynamic industrial hub surrounded by picturesque steppes and desert landscapes. Getting to Baotou is quite simple: thanks to a well-developed transport network, travellers can comfortably arrive by high-speed train, take an intercity bus, or fly in by plane.

For most travellers, flying will be the most convenient way to reach the destination: the city is served by Baotou Airport (BAV). It receives numerous domestic flights and features modern infrastructure, and thanks to its convenient location, the journey from the terminal to the central districts is quick and comfortable.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into neighbouring cities, such as Ordos or the regional administrative centre, Hohhot. These transport hubs are located within a couple of hundred kilometres, making it easy to combine a flight with a short overland journey to your final destination.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach the city. Baotou is a major transport hub in Inner Mongolia, so trains regularly arrive here from many major cities across the country, including the capital.

The city operates several railway stations, with Baotou Central Station and the East Station being the key ones. Both standard passenger trains and modern high-speed trains arrive here, allowing you to significantly save travel time. A journey by rail offers the opportunity to comfortably enjoy the views of the steppes and the unique landscapes of the region right from the carriage window.

Bus services connect the city with neighbouring major centres, offering tourists an excellent opportunity to enjoy the scenery of Inner Mongolia along the way. A trip from Hohhot will take about 2.5–3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 170 kilometres on a high-quality highway. The route from Ordos is equally convenient and popular: a journey of about 150 kilometres will take no more than two hours of your time.

If you plan to arrive from the west, a direct route from Bayannur is the optimal option. The 220-kilometre road takes on average 3–3.5 hours, and modern intercity buses ensure a decent level of comfort. The regular schedule allows for flexible travel planning without being tied to a strict timetable of trains or planes.

Travelling by car will allow you to appreciate the scale and beauty of the steppe landscapes on your way to this industrial centre. The most popular route runs from the administrative centre of Hohhot: the distance of 186 kilometres can be comfortably covered in about 2.5 hours via a modern expressway. If you are driving from the south, from Ordos, the road of about 140 kilometres will take slightly longer — around 2.6 hours.

For those coming from the west, Bayannur, located 250 kilometres away, is a convenient starting point; the trip from there will last about three hours. Intercity taxis are a common practice in this region, but it is worth negotiating the price in advance, as meters are rarely used for long distances. The quality of the road surface on the main highways leading to the city remains consistently high, making the trip pleasant and relaxing.

Preparing for a trip to Baotou requires considering the local climate and cultural features of this unique region of Inner Mongolia. To ensure your journey is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, we have compiled a list of useful recommendations that will be handy for every tourist.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is sharply continental with significant temperature fluctuations. If you travel in winter, be sure to bring a windproof down jacket, a hat, and thermal underwear — the frost can be severe. In summer, days are hot, but evenings bring coolness, so a light windbreaker or hoodie is necessary even in July. In spring, strong winds are frequent, sometimes with sand, so sunglasses and a face mask will be useful.
2. Urban Transport. The most convenient mode of transport for a foreigner is an official taxi, which is relatively inexpensive here. The bus network is well-developed, but route maps are only in Chinese. Important tip: always carry a hotel card or the name of the desired attraction written in Chinese characters to show the driver.
3. Money Matters. In China, mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) dominate almost everywhere, and Baotou is no exception. Cash is accepted, but vendors do not always have change. International Visa or Mastercard cards will only work in major hotels or Bank of China ATMs. It is best to install the tourist version of a Chinese payment app in advance or keep a supply of cash in Yuan.
4. Health and Safety. Baotou is a safe city, but standard precautions (watching your bags in crowded places) are advisable. Do not drink tap water; buy bottled water instead. Given the specifics of the local cuisine (plenty of rich meat dishes and spices), it is recommended to bring digestion aids with you.
5. Language Barrier. English is practically not spoken outside of elite hotels. Your main helper will be an offline translator on your smartphone with a photo translation function (for menus and signs) and voice input. This is critical for communication.
6. Local Etiquette. Greet locals with a slight nod. When handing over money, business cards, or gifts, use both hands — this is a sign of respect. In restaurants, especially those serving traditional cuisine, it is customary to order dishes "for the table" and share them with your group.
7. What to Avoid. Do not use the services of illegal taxi drivers at train stations and the airport — the risk of being overcharged is very high. Also, avoid discussing political topics and criticizing local regulations in conversations with strangers.
8. Gastronomic Tip. While in Baotou, be sure to try Mongolian cuisine, which is very popular here. Roasted lamb and traditional salty tea with milk are especially good — this is not just food, but part of the cultural immersion.

Following these simple tips will help you adapt faster to the rhythm of life in Baotou and focus on sightseeing. Locals are generally friendly to guests, and even without knowing the language, a simple smile and politeness will help resolve most issues.