Into Inner Mongolia
The Rider
As the train departs Beijing like a bird taking flight, it glides through the morning city calmly as the buildings fades into the distance. Outside, the landscape transforms into an intricate mosaic of fields and sparse villages. The small farms are a symbol to the quiet rhythm of rural life. The sun shines brilliantly, casting long shadows across the land, and inside the carriage, voices in Chinese lightly carry across row as riders wait for what lies ahead at their destinations.
As the train journeys northward, the scenery begins to change, giving way to the vast, open spaces of Inner Mongolia. Here, the land unfurls like a great, living canvas of rolling and at times sharp hills. The grasslands stretch out to the horizon and shapes are revealed under the midday light. These steppes, ancient and untamed, have cradled life for thousands of years.
In this land, horses are not merely animals; they are companions, symbols of strength, and carriers of culture. At the edge of the grasslands, a famous horse shows begins as people enter the arena. Riders clad in traditional Mongolian attire guide their mounts with effortless precision. The horses gallop as their hooves thundering against the dirt.
Nestled amidst the city buildings are temples, their ancient stones, statues, and surfaces are weathered by time and prayer. These sacred spaces stand as memory of tradition with their colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and sudden gale force winds. Inside, the air is filled with the scent of incense, and the low, resonant chants of monks and people chatting fill the space as people stroll through the park and temples buildings.
As the sun dips low, painting the grasslands in hues of amber and gold, one is reminded of the profound beauty of this place. Inner Mongolia is not merely a destination; it is a living, breathing tapestry of life. It is a land where nature and culture intertwine, a timeless reminder of the delicate yet enduring connection between humans and the world around them.
The Evening Light
