HOHHOT — At dusk, after tending to his sheep, 46-year-old herdsman Altansang heads straight to volleyball training — an activity he looks forward to every day.

"It makes me feel much healthier, and is a great way to socialize across the vast grassland," Altansang said, recalling the monotony of sitting idle after work.

In Otog Front Banner of the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, many herders have taken up the sport. Among a population of just under 8,000, more than 5,000 actively play volleyball.

The herdsmen's volleyball passion has soared since 2018, when Ma Hugjiltuu, 59, installed a makeshift volleyball net outside his house in Angsu township and gathered neighbors to form teams. The court may have been simple, but it quickly attracted participants.

As more herders joined, Ma Hugjiltuu improved the facilities — lights were installed and artificial turf was laid. By 2020, he had built an indoor volleyball court, embracing his role as a coach and team leader and establishing a volleyball committee to organize regular matches.

"The court has become a magnet for players near and far across Otog Front Banner, with some herders traveling over 100 kilometers just for a game," Ma Hugjiltuu said, adding that each player pays just 8 yuan ($1.10) for three to four hours of play each evening.

Recognizing the growing appeal of volleyball, the Otog Front Banner government has invested in upgrading sports infrastructure, with the banner now boasting 336 outdoor courts and 22 gymnasiums.

The banner's volleyball enthusiasm has transcended local boundaries, inviting players across China to participate in volleyball matches. Last year alone, over 700 tournaments were held, drawing tourists and sports fans.

The volleyball matches are often accompanied by cultural activities. Mongolian song and dance performances are shown before matches get underway. Around the courts, stalls offer traditional handicrafts, costumes and local specialties, creating a vibrant cultural experience for visitors.

Since July, the area has received 214,000 visits, a 24.4 percent increase over the previous year, and generated tourism revenue of 410 million yuan.

The economic impact has been transformative. Uyingaa, a herdswoman from the banner, once relied on a limited and unpredictable income from traditional animal husbandry. Now, her income has multiplied.

Capitalizing on the influx of tourists, she operates a bed and breakfast, makes Mongolian craft souvenirs and prepares milk-based delicacies. Her home has become a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience grassland culture.

"Volleyball has not only brought us economic development but also introduced a novel, fun and healthy lifestyle to us," said Tumenjirgal, an official with the banner.

Xinhua