Tourists enjoy the lake scenery in Inner Mongolia's Bayannuur. [Photo/Inner Mongolia News Network]

North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region recorded strong growth in tourism during the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival holiday from May 31 to June 2, with both visitor numbers and spending on the rise.

The region received 9.16 million domestic tourists, up 4.41 percent year-on-year, while total tourism revenue reached 6.27 billion yuan ($872.04 million), marking a 5.54 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Tourists ride camels through a desert in Inner Mongolia's Chifeng. [Photo/Inner Mongolia News Network]

This year's holiday saw a surge in visitors from outside the region, particularly from Hebei, Jiangsu, and Chongqing, a reflection of the region's growing tourism reach. Popular destinations included Whistling Dune Bay, Huitengxile Huanghuagou Grassland, Ulan Butong scenic area, and the Ulan Hada Volcano Geopark – highlighting the enduring appeal of Inner Mongolia's dramatic landscapes and vibrant ethnic culture.

Blending traditional customs with grassland characteristics, Inner Mongolia organized more than 430 cultural and tourism events during the festival. These included 59 cultural activities such as leather carving, zongzi-making contests, and tie-dye workshops in Hinggan League, drawing tens of thousands of people and enriching the holiday experience.

Tourists pose for a photo at a scenic sport in Inner Mongolia's Hohhot. [Photo/Inner Mongolia News Network]