Ningxia Travel

Ningxia, China's only Hui autonomous region, is known as the "Frontier South of the Great Wall." Here you will find majestic desert scenery, beautiful riverside landscapes, unique Hui culture and mysterious Western Xia civilization.

5
Prefecture-level Cities
22
County-level Divisions
4
5A Scenic Areas
600+
Mosques

Explore Ningxia Cities

Ningxia 4 Days 3 Nights Essence Tour

Explore the Western Xia Imperial Tombs, enjoy Shapotou, experience Hui culture, taste Ningxia cuisine, and feel the unique charm of the Frontier South of the Great Wall

Duration
4 Days 3 Nights
Main Destinations
Yinchuan, Zhongwei, Shapotou
Suitable For
Culture lovers, Desert explorers
Budget per person
¥1800-¥2500
01
Western Xia Discovery
Arrive Yinchuan · Western Xia Imperial Tombs · Zhenbeibu
Highlights

Arrive in Yinchuan, visit the mysterious Western Xia Imperial Tombs to learn about the history of the Western Xia dynasty. In the afternoon, explore Zhenbeibu Western Film Studio, experience the filming scenes of the classic movie "A Chinese Odyssey," and immerse yourself in Northwest folk culture.

Attractions
Western Xia Imperial Tombs
The royal mausoleums of the Western Xia dynasty, known as the "Eastern Pyramids," showcasing the mysterious Western Xia civilization and history.
Zhenbeibu Western Film Studio
A famous western film base in China, filming location for many classic movies including "A Chinese Odyssey," full of Northwest charm.
Practical Information
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Yinchuan Kempinski Hotel
  • Sheraton Yinchuan Hotel
  • Yinchuan Characteristic Homestay
Food Recommendations
  • Hand-Grabbed Lamb
  • Mixed Snacks
  • Yinchuan Pulled Noodles
Travel Tips
  • The Western Xia Imperial Tombs are large, wear comfortable shoes
  • Zhenbeibu is great for photos, prepare costumes
  • Large temperature difference in Yinchuan, dress accordingly
02
Desert Romance
Shapotou · Tengger Desert · Yellow River Collection
Highlights

Head to Zhongwei Shapotou Scenic Area to experience the wonderful combination of desert and Yellow River. Ride camels across the Tengger Desert, try sand sliding for speed and excitement. In the evening, check into the Yellow River Collection and enjoy the beautiful desert sunset.

Attractions
Shapotou
One of China's five most beautiful deserts, where the Yellow River meets the desert, creating a unique natural landscape.
Tengger Desert
China's fourth largest desert, offering camel riding, desert off-roading, sand sliding and other special activities.
Yellow River Collection
A unique cluster of boutique lodgings along the Yellow River, uniquely designed and the best spot to watch the sunset over the Yellow River.
Practical Information
Transportation Guide
  • About 2.5 hours drive from Yinchuan to Zhongwei
  • Electric carts available within the scenic area
  • Desert activities need advance booking
Ticket Information
  • Shapotou: 80 RMB
  • Camel Riding: 100 RMB/time
  • Sand Sliding: 30 RMB/time
Travel Tips
  • Strong desert sunlight, protect against sunburn
  • Wear high-top shoes to prevent sand from getting in
  • Yellow River Collection needs advance reservation
03
Hui Ethnic Customs
China Hui Culture Park · South Gate Grand Mosque
Itinerary Highlights

Return to Yinchuan and visit the China Hui Culture Park to learn about the history and culture of the Hui ethnic group. In the afternoon, visit the South Gate Grand Mosque to experience the beauty of Islamic architecture. In the evening, taste authentic halal food and experience Hui ethnic customs.

Attraction Arrangement
China Hui Culture Park
A theme park comprehensively showcasing the history and culture of the Hui ethnic group, including museums, folk villages, etc., serving as a window to understand Hui culture.
South Gate Grand Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Ningxia, integrating traditional Chinese architecture and Islamic architectural styles, solemn and majestic.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
  • Hui Culture Park: 9:00-17:00
  • Mosque: 8:00-18:00
  • Avoid visiting during prayer times
Food Recommendations
  • Laomao Handmade Lamb
  • Guoqiang Handmade Lamb
  • Halal BBQ
Cultural Tips
  • Dress appropriately when entering the mosque
  • Respect Hui dietary taboos
  • Can purchase Hui ethnic characteristic handicrafts
04
South of the Great Wall - Jiangnan-style Scenery
Sand Lake · Helan Mountain Rock Paintings · Return Trip
Itinerary Highlights

Visit Sand Lake Scenic Area in the morning to admire the unique landscape where desert and lake coexist. In the afternoon, visit Helan Mountain Rock Paintings to learn about the life of ancient nomadic peoples. Proceed to the airport/station according to the return schedule and end the pleasant Ningxia trip.

Attraction Arrangement
Sand Lake
One of China's first 5A-level scenic areas, featuring a unique landscape of desert and lake coexisting, known as the "Pearl Beyond the Great Wall".
Helan Mountain Rock Paintings
Precious cultural heritage left by ancient nomadic peoples, recording human life scenes from 3000 to 10000 years ago.
Practical Information
Transportation Guide
  • Sand Lake is about 56 km from Yinchuan
  • Helan Mountain Rock Paintings are 30 km from Yinchuan
  • Cruise ships and battery cars are available in the scenic area
Specialty Recommendations
  • Wolfberry
  • Helan Stone
  • Tan Sheepskin
Return Trip Suggestions
  • Airport is about 25 km from urban area
  • High-speed rail station is about 15 km from urban area
  • Reserve sufficient time for check-in procedures
Ningxia Travel Tips
Best Travel Time
  • Spring (April-May): Pleasant climate with less sand and dust
  • Autumn (September-October): Clear and crisp autumn weather with beautiful scenery
  • Desert is hot in summer, pay attention to sun protection and hydration
Must-Try Foods
  • Hand Grabbed Lamb
  • Assorted Snacks Stew
  • Lamb Soup with Flatbread
  • Eight Treasure Tea
  • Youxiang (Hui Fried Cake)
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: About ¥300-400
  • Accommodation: ¥200-350 per night
  • Catering: ¥60-100 per day
  • Transportation: ¥200-300
  • Total: ¥1800-2500