Xixia District Travel

Xixia District, Yinchuan, Ningxia — the core area of Western Xia culture, home to world-class cultural heritage sites such as the Western Xia Imperial Tombs and Helan Mountain Rock Art, blending historical exploration with film culture experiences. A 2-day in-depth tour includes site visits, rock art interpretation, and film studio exploration.

900+
Years of Historical Relics
2
World Cultural Heritage Sites
10000+
Rock Art Motifs
200+
Film Shooting Locations
Panoramic view of the Western Xia Imperial Tomb earthen mounds against the backdrop of Helan Mountain
Western Xia Imperial Tombs
Known as the 'Oriental Pyramids', these imperial tombs of the Western Xia dynasty bear witness to a thousand years of Tangut civilization

Xixia District Two-Day Cultural Tour

Travel through a thousand years of Western Xia civilization, explore the Helan Mountain rock art, visit classic film locations, and experience the vibrant Northwestern night market

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Western Xia Imperial Tombs, Helan Mountain Rock Art, Zhenbeibu Film Studio
Suitable For
History enthusiasts, film fans, families
Budget per Person
¥700-¥1100
01
Civilization Code
Western Xia Imperial Tombs · Western Xia Museum · Helan Mountain Rock Art
Highlights

Morning visit to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs site to learn about the mysterious Western Xia dynasty. Afternoon tour the Western Xia Museum, and head to the Helan Mountain Rock Art site in the evening to decipher ancient symbols.

Attractions
Western Xia Imperial Tombs
The royal mausoleums of the Western Xia dynasty, with 9 imperial tombs and 253 accompanying burial pits. The unique earthen tomb mounds are known as the 'Oriental Pyramids'.
Western Xia Museum
China's only museum dedicated to Western Xia history, housing nearly 10,000 artifacts and presenting the complete rise and fall of the Tangut people.
Helan Mountain Rock Art
Over 10,000 rock art motifs left by ancient nomadic peoples on the slopes of Helan Mountain, depicting hunting, rituals, astronomy and more, dating back up to 3000 years.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Western Xia Imperial Tombs Scenic Area Hotel
  • University Town Boutique Homestay
  • Budget Hotels near Huaiyuan Night Market
Food Recommendations
  • Western Xia Roasted Whole Lamb
  • Helan Mountain Purple Mushroom Stewed Chicken
  • Huangqu Bridge Lamb
Travel Tips
  • Shuttle bus required at the Imperial Tombs scenic area
  • Do not touch or carve the rock art
  • UV rays are strong, apply sunscreen
02
Journey of Light & Shadow
Zhenbeibu Film Studio · Ningxia University · Huaiyuan Night Market
Highlights

Full day tour of Zhenbeibu Western Film Studio, visiting iconic filming locations from classics like 'A Chinese Odyssey'. Afternoon visit to Ningxia University's Institute of Western Xia Studies, evening food exploration at Huaiyuan Night Market.

Attractions
Zhenbeibu Western Film Studio
One of China's top three film studios, shooting location for over 200 films including 'Red Sorghum' and 'A Chinese Odyssey'. Preserves a wealth of Northwestern folk architecture.
Ningxia University Institute of Western Xia Studies
A world-leading research institution for Western Xia studies, featuring a special exhibition on Western Xia scripts. Expert guided tours available by appointment.
Huaiyuan Night Market
Yinchuan's most popular night market, with over 300 stalls offering Northwestern specialty snacks. The atmosphere is especially lively when the lights come on at night.
Practical Info
Transportation Guide
  • Tourist shuttle bus directly to the film studio
  • Shared bikes widely available in university area
  • Parking near the night market is difficult
Ticket Info
  • Film Studio: ¥80
  • Western Xia Imperial Tombs: ¥68
  • Rock Art: ¥60 (combo ticket discount available)
Travel Tips
  • Rent costumes at the film studio for better photos
  • Cash is more convenient at the night market
  • Reserve at least 3 days in advance for the institute

Must-Try Foods in Xixia District

Western Xia Roasted Whole Lamb

Inheriting the roasting techniques of the Tangut people, using Tan sheep raised on the Helan Mountain pastures. Crispy skin, tender and juicy meat, perfect for sharing among a group.

Spicy Paste Hot Pot (La Huhu)

A Yinchuan specialty snack. Ingredients are cooked in a thick broth made from various chilies and spices. Spicy and satisfying, a must-try at Huaiyuan Night Market.

Helan Mountain Wild Mushroom Noodles

A noodle dish with broth made from purple mushrooms unique to Helan Mountain. The handmade noodles are chewy, and the broth is rich and savory with a distinct wild flavor.

Xixia District Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • May-Jun: Mild weather, mountain flowers in bloom
  • Sep-Oct: Clear autumn skies, fruit harvest
  • Avoid Jul-Aug heat and winter sandstorms
Must-Try Experiences
  • Cycling at the Imperial Tombs site
  • Rock art rubbing experience (provided by the scenic area)
  • Dress up as Zixia Fairy for photos at the film studio
  • Spicy paste hot pot challenge at the night market
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx ¥200
  • Accommodation: ¥200-400/night
  • Meals: ¥80-120/day
  • Transport: around ¥100
  • Total: ¥700-1100
Notes
  • Drones are prohibited in the rock art area
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the sandy film studio ground
  • Respect ethnic minority customs
  • Keep your tickets safe (multiple entries require ticket inspection)

Explore Districts & Counties of Yinchuan