Hohhot in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region made an impressive leap of 26 spots to 22nd on the 2025 Top 50 Emerging Internet-Famous Cities List released by Beijing News Think Tank on April 22. Hohhot's popularity is the result of its deep cultural roots and steady, strategic development.
For over two millennia, Hohhot has been a hub of ethnic integration – from Xiongnu horse-riding traditions and Princess Wang Zhaojun's journey to frontier trade and cultural exchange – forming a strong foundation for its contemporary cultural revival.
Now, Hohhot's rise is fueled by a well-planned cultural tourism strategy. The "One Corridor, Two Axes, Five Belts" framework supports citywide tourism development. Major events like the Zhaojun Culture Festival, Chilechuan Music Festival, Hohhot Ice and Snow Festival, and New Year's Eve celebrations are drawing increasing attention. Packed concerts by stars like Jay Chou, Phoenix Legend, Zhang Jie, and Joker Xue have further boosted the city's visibility.
Hohhot also promotes itself as a "city of museums, sculpture, art, and modern civilization", enhancing the tourist experience and broadening its appeal. In 2024, the city welcomed over 55 million visitors, ranking among the top 10 fastest-growing destinations during the National Day holiday.
Hohhot's journey proves that true internet fame stems not from chasing trends, but from activating cultural identity and staying strategically focused.