In a culture famed for its wide-ranging travel and herding, horses have long been crucial in Inner Mongolia. Today they continue to be major competitors in a Nadam contest. Provided to China Daily

Locals say good times to visit the Inner Mongolia autonomous region come both in summer and winter when the twice-yearly Nadam Fair is held.

The latest Winter Nadam Fair was held in December in Hulunbuir when the city was covered by mist and decorated with snow sculptures.

Meaning entertainment or game in Mongolian, Nadam is a traditional celebration that has its roots in the early 13th century when it was started by Genghis Khan. To Mongolians, it is ancient and holy.

Today it is also a good chance to better understand the region's distinctive character as well as its diverse ethnic groups such as the Ewenkis, Mongolians and Daurs, said local officials.

Riding on horses with furs and medicinal herbs on their back to be traded at the fair, nomadic people across the region gather as the festival opens and erect their iconic white Mongolian yurts on the grassland.

They dress in gorgeous local gowns with five-colored ribbons on their shoulders.

According to historical records, Nadam before served as a memorial ritual honoring mountain gods and to celebrate a community endeavor.

In the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), the festival became an official event held at intervals ranging from every six months to yearly or every three years.

We recommend:

Ethnic culture in costumes	A day for sharing soybeans and forming ties