Haiyan County Travel

Pearl on the north shore of Qinghai Lake — location of China's first nuclear weapons research base, where Jinyintan Grassland and Sand Island scenic area complement each other. 3-day 2-night in-depth tour includes red culture, grassland scenery, and desert lake experience.

1958

Year Atomic City Founded

1100

Jinyintan Grassland Area (sq km)

3100

Altitude (meters)

7-8

Best Travel Months

Jinyintan Grassland - In That Distant Place

Vast grassland and Qinghai Lake complement each other, the inspiration source for Wang Luobin's creation of 'In That Distant Place'

Haiyan Three-Day Two-Night Culture and Nature Tour

Explore Atomic City, ride across Jinyintan, enjoy Sand Island scenic area

                        
Duration
3 Days 2 Nights

                        
Main Destinations
Atomic City, Jinyintan Grassland, Sand Island

                        
Suitable For
Culture Enthusiasts, Nature Explorers

                        
Budget per Person
¥1000-¥1500

Red Memories

Atomic City · Two Bombs One Satellite Spirit

Highlights

Arrive in Haiyan in the morning, visit Atomic City Memorial Hall in the afternoon to learn about China's nuclear industry development history.

Attractions

Atomic City Memorial Hall

Former site of China's first nuclear weapons research base, a national patriotism education demonstration base, fully preserving the original scientific research facilities and living quarters.

Explosion Test Site

The site where nuclear weapon explosion tests were conducted. Now a patriotism education base where visitors can view the original test equipment and bunkers.

Practical Info

Accommodation Recommendations

Haiyan Atomic City Hotel
Xihai Town Homestay
Qinghai Lake Resort Hotel

Notes

Please follow no-photography rules inside the memorial hall
Respect historical sites
Avoid strenuous exercise on the first day at altitude

Grassland Pastoral

Jinyintan Grassland · Qinghai Lake Shore

Highlights

Full day tour of Jinyintan Grassland, experience Tibetan pastoral life, enjoy Qinghai Lake sunset in the evening.

Attractions

Jinyintan Grassland

Vast grassland on the north shore of Qinghai Lake. Wildflowers bloom in summer, interweaving gold and silver. It is the birthplace of the song 'In That Distant Place'.

Wang Luobin Music Art Museum

A themed exhibition hall commemorating musician Wang Luobin, showcasing the creative background of classic works such as 'In That Distant Place'.

Practical Info

Experience Activities

Grassland Horseback Riding (approx 80 RMB/hour)
Tibetan Family Visit (taste butter tea)
Folk Song Appreciation

Photography Tips

Best time: early morning and dusk
Communicate in advance when photographing herders moving camp
Use polarizer to enhance lake surface effect

Sand Lake Wonder

Sand Island Scenic Area · Return Trip

Highlights

Morning visit to Sand Island Scenic Area to experience the wonder of desert and lake coexisting. Purchase specialty souvenirs in the afternoon before returning.

Attractions

Sand Island Scenic Area

A unique desert landscape beside Qinghai Lake, where golden sand dunes contrast sharply with the blue lake water. Visitors can experience sand sliding, camel riding and other activities.

Practical Info

Experience Activities

Sand Sliding (approx 50 RMB/trip)
Camel Riding (approx 100 RMB/lap)
Sand ATV

Souvenir Recommendations

Qinghai Lake Huang Fish Jerky (farmed)
Yak Jerky
Tibetan Carpet
Yellow Mushroom

Must-Try Foods in Haiyan County

Hand-Grab Lamb

A traditional plateau delicacy made with quality mutton, boiled in plain water and eaten by hand. Pure and simple, reflecting Tibetan food culture.

Yak Yogurt

A traditional plateau pastoral food made by fermenting yak milk. A golden layer of cream forms on the surface, with a balanced sweet and sour taste and rich nutrition.

Dog-Pee Oilcake

A Haiyan specialty pastry named for the action of pouring oil along the pan edge during preparation. Thin, crispy and fragrant, often eaten with milk tea.

Haiyan County Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

Jun-Sep: Most beautiful grassland season
Jul-Aug: Best summer retreat season
Note: Some scenic areas closed in winter

Cultural Taboos

Respect Tibetan customs and religious beliefs
Maintain silence at Atomic City Memorial Hall
Obtain consent before photographing locals

Budget Reference

Tickets: approx 180 RMB
Accommodation: 200-400 RMB/night
Meals: 80-120 RMB/day
Transport: 400-600 RMB
Total: 1000-1500 RMB

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