Worshippers pray while circling an ovoo in the Bayan Obo mining district in Baotou, North China’s Inner Mongolia autonomous region, on July 21. The ceremony was held to give thanks to nature and pray for favorable weather conditions and a bountiful harvest. Ovoos are sacred stone structures used as shrines or altars. They are mainly used for religious ceremonies, but it is also believed that they can bring a good harvest or good health to an individual. [Photo/Baotou Daily]