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The Caoyuancheng is a square surrounded by a one story building divided into many simple small singing halls. Tea and fruit is served, and beer and baijiu. One pays by the song with some negotiation. Huhehaote is home to the fascinating cross cultural music 蠻漢調 Mahandiao or Menghandiao which is performed in a 24 hour music spots called 草園城 Caoyuancheng, Grassland City. Mahandiao is a mixed Chinese and Mongolian music. In one style called 山曲 Shan Qu the melody is Mongolian and the words Chinese. Another si called 二人台 errentai, duets. The vocals are backed up by hammered dulcimer, flute, wooden clappers. There is much improvisation as the songs develop.

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