Riding high on renewed wave of equestrian enthusiasm

Warmbloods make short work of the obstacles in the paddock, prancing lightly on the soft ground as their riders, wearing bespoke equestrian attire, gracefully guide their mounts.

Outside the enclosure, miniature horses delight toddlers on a patch of carpet grass while stablehands lead lean Arabian breeds that draw continuous photo requests from bystanders.

It's a common scene at many exclusive equestrian clubs in Beijing and other major cities, riding on the rising affluence of Chinese who are seeking increasingly high-end hobbies.