Title:呼和浩特: Embracing the Past and Present on the Ch勒 River
Hohhot, a City of Timeless Beauty and Cultural Riches
Hohhot, located at the bend of the Yellow River in Inner Mongolia, is a city where history and culture intertwine with modern development. Once a strategic trading post and a melting pot of ethnic cultures, Hohhot now stands at the forefront of China’s northward opening-up, expanding its friendship circle in international exchanges.
A City Blessed with Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage
The Yellow River, with its meandering curves, creates a vast S shape within Inner Mongolia, and Hohhot, nestled at this turn, boasts lush pastures, abundant resources, and a thriving culture. The city, known as Qingcheng or the Green City, has a rich cultural heritage that includes tributes to nature, songs of unity, and aspirations for the future.
Preservation: Enhancing Qingcheng’s Allure
Hohhot’s moniker Qingcheng originates from the Ming Dynasty when the city was built with green bricks, giving it a distinct green hue when viewed from afar. Today, the city’s streets are adorned with lush greenery, thanks to years of vegetation protection and afforestation efforts. The Green City now symbolizes more than just its physical appearance; it represents a commitment to ecological preservation.
The city’s ecological richness, nourished by the Yellow River, is complemented by a unique pastoral lifestyle that fosters a deep connection with nature. The Ch勒 River grassland, located in the northern part of the city, has been celebrated for its beauty and fertility since the Southern and Northern Dynasties, as evidenced by the timeless Ch勒 Song.
In the late Qing Dynasty, Hohhot saw the planting of nearly 5,000 willow trees around the city and along major roads, creating a scenic beauty known as Willow City in Green. Today, the city still retains its ancient willows and waterways, making it feel like a park, with the Ch勒 River grassland adding a lush green touch.
Unity: Fostering民族团结
Every morning, the 400-year-old Sui Shang Old Street in Hohhot is awakened by the bustling activity of visitors. The street, with its ancient architecture and cultural artifacts, offers an immersive experience of its vibrant life. Here, Han-style buildings with intricate carvings stand alongside Mongolian-style structures, showcasing the交融 of multiculturalism.
In the Sui Shang Old Street’s leather carving exhibit hall, visitors can admire the exquisite craftsmanship of leather art, a traditional Mongolian cultural heritage. The art form, passed down through generations, has evolved to incorporate cultural symbols from various ethnic groups, reflecting the spirit of unity and cultural exchange.
Hohhot’s history is a testament to the deep interactions and integration among various ethnic groups. From the Warring States period to the Qing Dynasty, over 80 ancient cities have been built within the area, each a witness to the profound historical exchanges among different ethnicities, telling tales of unity and harmony.
Connectivity: A Gateway to Global Trade
Hohhot has historically been a major hub for trade and cultural exchange. The Da Sheng Kui merchant house, established in the Qing Dynasty, had trading routes that spanned across China, Mongolia, and Russia, making it a pivotal point on the ancient tea road.
Today, Hohhot continues to play a significant role in regional and international trade. As a key node in the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor and a strategic city in the regional development plan, Hohhot is transforming its geographical advantage into an open and developmental one. The city has launched the first China-Europe train carrying locally produced cars, marking a new chapter in its journey towards becoming a major international trade and logistics center.
Conclusion
Hohhot, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant present, stands as a beacon of unity, preservation, and connectivity. As it continues to embrace the future while honoring its past, the city offers a unique blend of history and modernity, making it a truly captivating destination.
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