Herders turn volleyball into plateau attraction

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.