Between the latitudes of 40° and 50° North lies a belt renowned for its remarkable natural gifts. Often referred to as the "golden necklace of the Earth," this zone is a treasure trove of natural beauty and human achievement. It spans continents, linking places renowned for their fine wines, rich agricultural lands, and vibrant cities like New York, Madrid, and Istanbul.
In China, this magical latitude manifests as a sprawling expanse of grasslands. Stretching over 5,000 kilometers, this green tapestry starts from the Hulunbuir Grassland, one of the world's three great grasslands, and extends westward to the snowy altitudes of Altay. These natural oases are not only the result of nature's bounty but also of the efforts of those who safeguard them. This verdant stretch supports a thriving dairy industry that consistently ranks among the top in the world, providing nourishment to millions.
The allure of Altay has rekindled a deep-seated yearning for the natural world among city dwellers eager to escape their urban confines and reconnect with nature. The grasslands offer more than a scenic retreat; they embody the romantic spirit of a nomadic life, calling us back to simpler times.
A Journey Through the Grasslands
Embark on a journey from Hulunbuir to Altay, covering over 5,000 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, witness the sunset over the winding Morigele River, encounter the solitary "sacred tree" battling the desert sands, and marvel at the snow-capped Altay Mountains and the sprawling taiga forests. Every sight along this route resonates with the music of nature, inviting you to release your inner nomad.
This grassland corridor is also known as the "golden milk source belt." At its easternmost point lies the Hulunbuir Grassland, a fertile expanse nurtured by the waters of the Great Hinggan Mountains. This region is a labyrinth of rivers and lakes, with over 3,000 rivers weaving a network that sustains one of China's largest grasslands. Here, nature is the undisputed protagonist, offering a serene tableau where the sky meets the earth in a seamless embrace.
The pastoral beauty of Hulunbuir is complemented by its rich biodiversity. Cattle and sheep graze freely, creating a tranquil symphony of nature. As described in the book "My Altay," "Cattle and sheep are everything to herders, and water and grass are everything to cattle and sheep." This symbiotic relationship between the land and its inhabitants has fostered a thriving dairy industry, with leading companies like Yili establishing pastures here to produce high-quality dairy products.
Hohhot: The Proud "Dairy Capital of China"
Contrary to its remote and rugged image, Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, is surprisingly accessible. Just a two-hour high-speed train ride from Beijing, Hohhot greets visitors with the fresh, invigorating air of the grasslands. Its name, meaning "Green City," is a testament to the natural beauty that surrounds it. A short drive from the city center leads to the pristine Chahar Grassland, where rolling hills and grazing herds paint a picture of pastoral perfection.
Hohhot has long been a cultural crossroads where nomadic and agricultural traditions converge. This rich heritage is evident in its bustling streets and historic temples like the Dazhao Temple and the Xilitu Zhao. The Inner Mongolia Museum, housing artifacts that chronicle half of China's history, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Visitors to Hohhot are often enchanted by its diverse dairy offerings. From milk skin and milk tofu to white butter, the city's dairy products are a culinary delight. Mongolian tea houses are ubiquitous, offering a unique experience with their salty milk tea, enhanced with roasted rice and butter – a taste that leaves a lasting impression.
Hohhot's dairy industry is a source of immense pride, with Inner Mongolia leading the nation in dairy production. The city is home to major dairy companies like Yili, which have transformed the local industry through innovation and modernization. At the Yili Modern Smart Health Valley, advanced production lines ensure the highest quality dairy products, maintaining a seamless "grass to glass" journey.
Tengger Desert: A Golden Oasis
The grassland belt is not just about lush greenery; it also encompasses the dazzling golden expanse of the Tengger Desert. Here, the desert's stark beauty is a vivid contrast to the lush grasslands. In places like Zhongwei's Shapotou, the desert seamlessly blends with rivers and lakes, creating a surreal landscape that defies expectations.
Venture deeper into the Tengger Desert, and you'll find remarkable sights like the Ulan Lake, a salt lake whose striking red waters resemble a beating heart from above. Amidst the dunes, a lone "sacred tree" stands resilient, symbolizing the local people's enduring spirit.
Local communities have long battled the encroaching desert, planting various desert plants to halt its advance. Companies like Yili have contributed to these efforts by establishing pastures that stabilize the soil and combat desertification. The Tengger Desert Ecological Project has seen the planting of 130,000 acres of trees over 21 years, creating a green barrier over 60 kilometers long.
Altay: The Enchanting End
The journey through the grasslands culminates in Altay, a land of stunning contrasts. Nestled within the embrace of the Altay Mountains, this green island in the heart of the continent is a paradise where deserts, rivers, grasslands, and snow-capped peaks coexist. Here, you can experience everything from the serene taiga forests and misty mornings to the breathtaking Northern Lights under a pink-hued sky.
The Irtysh, Ulungur, and Jimunai rivers nourish Altay's vast pastures. Local herders, true to their nomadic traditions, migrate along ancient routes, seeking the best pastures for their livestock. This timeless journey, filled with hardship and hope, echoes the resilience and determination of the nomadic spirit.
In Altay, time seems to stand still. Whether racing horses across the gleaming grasslands, joining lively night festivals, or simply watching the clouds drift by, every moment is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and rediscover oneself. Here, amidst the tranquil beauty, you can listen to your heart and find what truly matters.
