Short Introduction to Baotou Local Culture: History, Nation, Diet, Clothing, etc

Baotou, located in western Inner Mongolia, is a city with deep historical roots and a strong connection to the grassland culture of northern China. Its history can be traced back more than two thousand years to ancient states along the northern frontier. Over time, Baotou developed from a small settlement into an important hub for trade between nomadic tribes and agricultural regions. In the modern era, it has grown into a major industrial center while still preserving the cultural heritage of the Mongolian people who have lived on these grasslands for generations and continue to shape the region’s identity today.

The name “Baotou” means “Place with Deer” in Mongolian. The city is often referred to as the “Deer City,” a reflection of the region’s early ecology and nomadic symbolism. Baotou covers a total area of about 27,700 square kilometers and is home to a diverse population. By the end of 2023, the city had a permanent population of approximately 2.7 million residents, representing many ethnic groups, including Mongol, Han, Hui, Manchu, and others. As an important settlement on the Inner Mongolian grasslands, Baotou combines rich cultural traditions with modern urban development, making it a city where history, nature, and industry coexist.

Brief History

Baotou has a rich and colorful history dating back to the Qing dynasty. The region was originally inhabited by various nomadic tribes, including the Mongols, who grazed their herds of horses, sheep, and camels on the grassy plains.

During the late 19th century, the city became an important hub for trade and commerce due to its strategic location on the Yellow River. In the early 20th century, Baotou became a center of heavy industry with the establishment of iron and steel plants, which helped to fuel China's industrial revolution.

Pre-Qin Period (c. 2000 BCE – 221 BCE) the Baotou region was an active area for northern nomadic tribes such as the Xiongnu, forming one of the early cradles of grassland culture.

Qin and Han Dynasties (221 BCE – 220 CE) In 127 BCE, the Han Dynasty established Jiuyuan Commandery in the Baotou region and expanded the northern section of the Great Wall here, making it an important frontier outpost and a vital gateway between the Central Plains and the northern grasslands.

During the Three Kingdoms period (220–534), the Baotou region fell under the influence of the Xianbei tribes. After unifying northern China, the Northern Wei established Huaishuo Town near present-day Guyang, making it one of the famous Six Frontier Garrisons guarding the empire’s northern border.

During the Liao Dynasty, Yunnei Prefecture was established to administer the Baotou region, which belonged to the Western Capital Circuit. The Jin Dynasty continued this administrative structure, and Baotou became an important commercial link between the Mongolian steppe and the Central Plains. Both the Khitan and Jurchen regimes used the area for pastures and postal stations, positioning Baotou as a buffer zone in interactions between steppe powers and the Central Plains.

The Tang Dynasty established the Yunzhong Protectorate in this region, later renamed the Chanyu Protectorate, with its administrative center near present-day Baotou, making the area a key military stronghold against the Turkic forces.

Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644) The Ming constructed Great Wall sections and military forts near Baotou, integrating it into the northern defense system and promoting border trade.

The Qing (1644 – 1911) established the Tümed Left and Right Banners in this area, shaping Baotou into a center of Zhaojun culture, temple heritage, and blended agricultural–pastoral life.

With the development of nearby Gui Sui (Hohhot) and the construction of the Baolan Railway, Baotou grew from a small market town into a regional transport and commercial hub.

Now, Major national industrial projects—especially steel and rare-earth industries—were established in Baotou, transforming it into one of China’s most important modern industrial cities.

Ethnic Culture

Baotou is an important hub connecting North China and Northwest China, and a key region for national and Inner Mongolia’s opening-up strategies. As of 2025, the city has a permanent population of 2.7721 million. Han Chinese make up 93.21% of the population, Mongols account for 4.18%, and Hui, Manchu, and 51 other ethnic minority groups together comprise 2.61%.

Ethnic

The Mongolian ethnic group: in Baotou has traditionally been a nomadic people, living on the grasslands and relying on animal husbandry, a way of life that, although less common today, remains a defining symbol of their identity. They continue to preserve rich cultural traditions that reflect their deep nomadic heritage, including the “Three Manly Skills” — wrestling, archery, and horse racing — as well as traditional festivals such as Naadam and the Aobao Worship Ceremony.

The Daur ethnic group: is an ancient and hardworking people traditionally engaged in hunting and farming. Although they do not have their own written script, they communicate using both Chinese and Mongolian languages.

Ethnic clothing

Traditional Mongolian deel (traditional long robe) garments are wide, comfortable, and often made from materials such as leather or silk. They feature bright colors and are typically worn with a belt and traditional boots.

Ethnic Language

Mandarin and the local Baotou dialect are the main languages spoken in the urban area of Baotou. The Baotou dialect belongs to the Datong–Baotou branch of Jin Chinese and is mainly used in Donghe District, Jiuyuan District, and the surrounding banners and counties. It incorporates elements of Jin Chinese as well as influences from Mongolian and Manchu. Most speakers are descendants of migrants from Shanxi during the late Qing period, and Baotou is one of the northernmost regions in China where the entering tone has been preserved.

Faith and worship

Baotou is home to a diverse range of religions, including Tibetan Buddhism, Islam, Daoism, Catholicism, and Protestant Christianity.

Traditional Festival and Special Custom

Mongolian rituals and festive activities reflect the spiritual beliefs and deep cultural traditions of the Mongolian people. Traditional ceremonies such as the Tengger Khan Worship and Aobao Sacrifice express reverence and gratitude toward the deities, especially the god of fire. The Naadam Festival, showcasing the “Three Manly Skills” of wrestling, archery, and horse racing, highlights the Mongolian spirit of competition and cultural heritage, making it one of the most important celebrations shared by Mongolian communities.

Mongolian Fire Worship Ceremony (Lunar December 23–24): Held in areas such as Kundulun District, Jiuyuan District, and Guyang County, this traditional ritual is performed to pray for favorable weather and a prosperous year. The ceremony is led by lamas who offer blessings, followed by participants walking clockwise around a fire mound and tossing offerings such as candies and tea into the flames. It is one of the most symbolic winter rituals of Mongolian culture.‌

The Nadaam Festival: “Nadaam" is a Mongolian term that means "entertainment" or "games," symbolizing the joy of a bountiful harvest. Held in July and August, the Nadaam Festival is a major cultural celebration for Mongolians. includes rituals the “Three Manly Skills” wrestling, archery, and horse racing and Naadam and the Aobao Worship Ceremony.

Mare’s Milk Festival: Celebrated by Mongolians in late August of the lunar calendar, this traditional harvest festival centers on drinking fermented mare’s milk. The one-day event includes serving hand-pulled mutton to guests, horse racing, performances by folk singers offering blessings, and ceremonial tributes to respected traditional Mongolian doctors.

Nanhai River Lantern Festival: Held on the second day of the seventh lunar month in Old Baotou, this festival has multiple origin stories—one is to honor the river god during the rainy season when the Yellow River rises, and another commemorates the Dragon Maiden’s victory over the Nanhaizi Black Dragon. During the festival, daytime activities include theatrical performances and temple fairs, while at night, colorful lanterns float slowly down the river, creating a magical scene.

Temple Fairs: Meidaizhao hosts its annual temple fair from the 13th to the 17th day of the fifth lunar month to celebrate the Gelugpa “Initiation Sutra Festival.” Wudangzhao holds the Kangyur Dharma Assembly from the 8th to the 16th day of the first lunar month, a ritual dedicated to the worship of Maitreya Buddha.

Diet Style and Culinary Tastes

Baotou, as a city where diverse cultures converge, also boasts a distinctive culinary scene. Historically an important transportation hub and commercial center, the city has welcomed merchants and travelers from different regions, each bringing their own food traditions. Over time, these influences blended into Baotou’s unique fusion cuisine. Local food reflects a mix of grassland flavors, culinary traditions brought by Shanxi and Shaanxi immigrants, and innovations from its industrial city heritage. Signature dishes include shaomai (steamed dumplings), youmian (oat noodles), and Mongolian-style lamb hotpot, all highlighting the natural flavors of ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

Read More Local Food-Restaurants in Baotou »

Cultural Heritage

Tangible Cultural Heritage: Baotou is home to a wealth of historical sites that reflect its long and diverse past. These include the remains of the Great Wall stretching across the region where pastoral and agricultural cultures meet, the Zhuanglongzang Site that showcases ancient religious traditions, and several Late Neolithic sites that offer a glimpse into the daily life and cultural development of early inhabitants on this land.

Intangible Cultural Heritage: Baotou also preserves a vibrant array of traditional arts and folk craftsmanship. Errentai, a traditional opera widely performed in central and western Inner Mongolia, blends elements of both agrarian and nomadic cultures and is known for its lively melodies and expressive performance style. Local handicrafts such as Baotou paper cutting, velvet-flower making, tea soup preparation, sheepskin painting, and the crafting of the traditional “Six-in-One Pillow” embody the creativity, skills, and aesthetic sensibilities of the local people, reflecting the rich cultural fusion of the grassland and Central Plains.

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