Snapshots of modern life in Inner Mongolia

HOUSES AND CARS

Living a nomadic life, Boldbater from Xilin Gol League, had to carry his tent and move from one pasture to another in the past.

Two years ago, he bought a moveable and energy-efficient house with a floor area of 60 square meters. Specially designed by architects for nomads, the house is equipped with thermal insulating walls and a solar heating system.

"I have stopped burning wood to keep warm. My house is as warm as spring when it's freezing cold outside in winter," Boldbater said.

Another Boldbater from Sonid Left Banner made a different decision. He decided to say goodbye to the nomadic life and settle down in a brick house.

"It's no different from the houses in cities. We have a modern kitchen, computer, fridge, 24-hour hot water, and even wifi," he said.

Changes in transportation have also occurred. Badema recently donated her lele cart, a Mongolian-style ox cart, to a museum in her hometown, East Ujimqin Banner.

It was a dowry offered by her parents when she got married 40 years ago. With motorcycles and cars becoming commonplace, the role of lele carts has withered in Mongolian life.

By the end of 2017, the number of private cars in the region surpassed 2.7 million, compared with around 10,000 in 1987.