When photographer Kin Coedel decided to travel to Inner Mongolia, it was to experience Naadam, a centuries-old festival that’s celebrated annually across Mongolia, Inner Mongolia, and Tuva Republic through the performance of three traditional games: horse-racing, wrestling and archery. In addition to games, the festival also celebrates Mongolian oral traditions, national cuisines and local crafts. What was meant to be a short trip was soon extended, when Coedel’s friend persuaded him to come stay with his family on their farm not far from Hohhot. In the weeks that followed Coedel traveled the region, meeting with and learning from local communities as he went. 

This series offers a tender glimpse into the lives of Inner Mongolia’s nomadic peoples. During his time in the region, Coedel stayed with families who work the land, as well as camel herders, goat farmers, and many more—to document and celebrate their local customs.