[2024 Zhongwei Attraction] Travel Guide for Shapotou Scenic Area (Updated Sep)
No.1 of Best Things to Do in Ningxia
National Parks
Deserts
Address:
Shapotou, Zhongwei, Ningxia, China
Opening times:
Open today at 08:00-18:00Opening Soon
Recommended sightseeing time:
0.5-1 day
Phone:
400-15-51766
Here's a reason for you to visit Zhongwei
Zhongwei City, located in the central and western part of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China, is a place full of natural scenery and historical culture. Zhongwei is a frontier fortress on the 'Silk Road' and has been a strategic military location in the northwest region since ancient times. Currently, it is the third largest railway traffic hub connecting the northwest and north China, and is a must-pass place for the 'East-West Passage' of the Eurasian Continental Bridge. The territory integrates five major landforms: river alluvial plain, plateau, desert, mountain, and hill, and is known as 'The Yellow River enriches Ningxia, and Zhongwei is the richest'.
Zhongwei has the national 4A-level tourist attraction Shapotou, which integrates sand, mountains, rivers, and gardens; the Sikouzi tourist area known for its dangerous and unique Danxia landform; the Paleolithic site of Yibowquan, ancient rock paintings, Zhongwei Gaomiao, Shuanglongshan Grottoes, Haiyuan 'Global Earthquake' site and many other historical sites and scenic spots. They are not only unique tourism resources, but also show the brilliant ancient civilization and profound cultural heritage of Zhongwei, winning the reputation of 'Cultural Pearl of the Frontier'.
Here is the boundless desert, here is the most romantic hotel, here is the night sky full of stars... Various labels make everyone curious and longing for it. I believe there is always one reason that attracts you to visit.
S0undw@lk3r_0bscur3
This beautiful scroll of Zhongwei, we slowly open it to appreciate its magnificence
Zhongwei City, located in the middle of Ningxia, is not unfamiliar to those who love travel and life! 'Desert solitary smoke straight' is her true portrayal, the sunset glow is her most beautiful color, the vast Yellow River flows through, the easily overlooked grassland and other elements constitute a magnificent natural scroll unique to Zhongwei. This beautiful scroll, we can slowly open it to appreciate its magnificence! 1⃣️Zhongwei Museum To understand a city, start from its museum, and so is Zhongwei. Walking into the museum, through the displayed cultural relics and materials, you can understand its past and present in a more direct way! 2⃣️Shapotou As the first batch of national 5A scenic spots, Shapotou has become the most representative scenic spot in Zhongwei. Here you can delve into the majestic desert scenery and enjoy the magnificent view of the Yellow River. 3⃣️ Tengger Desert As an important filming location for the movie 'The Treasure Hunter' starring Jay Chou, the Tengger Desert has long entered the public eye. Here you can see both the vast desert landscape and the rippling lake scenery, you can experience desert star camping, and you can ride a camel to chase the sunset in the sand sea. 4⃣️Route 66 The spectacular rock desert standing in the sand sea records the vicissitudes of Zhongwei; the flocks of sheep that often appear on both sides of the road add vitality and color to this sand sea; in the evening, the sunset glow, press the shutter at this moment, what is recorded is the best scenery of Zhongwei!
Victoria.Sanders.65
Desert Star: Mingle in The Middle
Address - Shapotou Tourist Area Time and Space Gate Visitor Center Reception Desk, Zhongwei, 755000, Ningxia, China.
Getting There - 9km away from Zhongwei Xiangshan Airport or in my case 7.3km from railway station (Guangzhou Baiyun Airport->Hedongjiang Airport->Zhongweinan Railway Train Station)
Ambiance/Facilities - The room is very clean and the area is covered with lots of helpful and lovely staffs roaming around fulfilling the requests from customers 🥰
Highlights - The night view over the whole area (using drone) as shot and of course star gazing at night at the Star Gazing platform prepared.
Rating - 4.7/5
#thisischina #travelinspiration #travelwithgeo #travelphotography #chinatravel #wanderlust #droneview #ningxia #dji
Travel with Geo
Took a trip out of the city to see China's northwest! Great way to spend the New Year holiday.
Recommendations:
1. Desert Star Hotel (沙漠星星) it's about two hours from Yinchuan airport by high-speed rail and then taxi. Great sunrise views over the sand dunes!
2. Xipo Hostel in Shapotou. It has a very old west Americana vibe with an awesome little community. Also you can see parts of the old Great Wall
3. Route 66 … a 1km stretch of road that is very "instagrammable". Really only for the pictures, you can skip if it's not your thing.
#newyearstrip #ningxia
_TS***73
Shapotou: fading away
KRISTINA.
After reading "Shahai", I have been longing for the vast desert scenery. Therefore, the first stop of Ningxia travel has arranged Shapotou in Ningxia. This is also the location of the first quarter of "Where is Dad?" Beauty can't be described.
Summer and autumn are the best seasons for Shapotou tourism. At this time, the scenery of Shapotou is also the best in the year.
The temperature in summer is not high, it is relatively cool. If you go out to play, it is recommended that you wear a thin T-shirt. It is best to have a brightly colored photo that will look great. But try not to wear a skirt, because sand skiing and camel riding are inconvenient, but it is also okay for the beautiful girls to take a red dress and take a look at it.
Autumn temperature difference is large, but mild weather is more, if you go out to play in the morning and evening, you can wear windbreakers and the like.
How to shoot in the desert is very beautiful, very tough guys, as long as the posture is not too feminine!
The most important thing to miss is the play--
Shapotou rides. In addition to the traditional camel ride experience, there are also exciting projects recommended by tourists at home and abroad, waiting for you to play!
01. Jinsha Mingzhong - slippery sand
02. Cross the Yellow River - sheepskin scorpion
03. Re-take the Silk Road - take a camel sand
04. Brave game - Yellow River shuttle
05. Gallop in the desert - sand and sand
06. Jumping down - Yellow River bungee
Tips: It is best to prepare a pair of shoe covers before entering the desert (if it is a different color, the photo effect will be better ), the shoe cover prevents sand from entering the shoe and avoids hot feet. Although there are sold around the scenic spot, but personal recommendations are still online shopping in advance, the quality will be better.
Tips:
Be sure to pay attention to the lens change in the desert. It is best to cover the lens with a plastic bag, otherwise the lens will be very troublesome when entering the sand!
Hero_V5.
Mid-September, the real situation in Zhongwei. Moms who are planning to take their kids to see the stars during National Day can refer to this.
✔ Don't be obsessed with staying in a star hotel. Usually, you need to book half a month or even a month in advance. If you don't get a room, don't pay extra for it. It's really not necessary! There are many other hotels in the desert that offer the same level of service and experience. For example, Damo Star River is a good choice. It's not as crowded as the Star Hotel and it's a single building. You can take your kids to play in the desert around the room.
✔ The temperature is not as high as it is during the summer vacation, so it's relatively comfortable. You can wear normal autumn clothes and a short-sleeved shirt at noon. However, the temperature difference between morning and evening in Ningxia is relatively large, so be sure to bring a thick coat.
✔ When you go to the desert, be sure to bring a sand mask and sunglasses. Because the wind and sand are really strong, if you don't take precautions, your mouth, nose, and eyes will be full of sand. Also, when you play in the desert, be sure to use a phone case with a chain. Otherwise, if you accidentally drop it in the desert, it will be hard to find.
✔ When you go to Shapotou, choose a package ticket that includes [sheepskin raft + sandboarding + desert surfing car + camel riding + glass bridge], etc. It's more cost-effective. Because the one-way ticket to enter the scenic area is 60 yuan, and you have to pay for everything you play inside. The scenic bus is about 20 yuan. So the package ticket is the most cost-effective!
✔ If it's sunny at noon on the day you go to the desert, you can go in the afternoon. In the morning, take your kids to rest in the hotel and save your energy and stamina for stargazing at night. Usually, you can only see the stars after 10 pm. The best time is between 10 and 12 pm.
·
👨👩👧👦 The most popular parent-child activities in Zhongwei, Ningxia:
🔸 Take your kids to play in the desert, check in Shapotou - sandboarding, camel riding, desert surfing car, Yellow River speedboat, Yellow River sheepskin raft, Yellow River glass bridge, etc., and experience different projects.
🔸 Stay at the Yellow River Hostel, take your kids to hike to the Great Wall, walk into the spring and summer pastures to experience the northwest rural life, take your kids to milk sheep, collect eggs, and feed lambs; in the evening, take your kids for a hand-in-hand stroll along the Yellow River.
🔸 Visit the Western Xia Tombs, watch a 3D movie to learn about the history of Western Xia; follow the guide to visit the museum and check in the tombs; finally, take your kids to experience one of the four great inventions - movable type printing, and print their own works.
......
✅ Recommended 5-day parent-child itinerary:
D1 Yinchuan
D2 Helan Mountain Rock Paintings - Western Xia Tombs - Movable Type Printing - Yinchuan
D3 Yinchuan - Manpu Town - Rock Painting - Stargazing Class - Star Hotel/Damo Star River
D4 Damo Star River/Star Hotel - Shapotou - Yellow River Hostel
D5 Yellow River Hostel - Yinchuan
·
ValerianVoxen123~
The Tengger Desert has returned, suggesting a trip to Zhongwei from August to October with kids
🏜Moms planning to travel to Zhongwei, Ningxia from August to October with kids
Here are some honest tips from my trip to the Tengger Desert in Ningxia:
Kids will have a blast and won't want to leave! My child keeps asking to go back after our trip 😂, and I'm already planning another visit.
~~~~~~~~~~
🐼Here are some tips for taking kids to Zhongwei
⭕️August to October is a good time to travel, with stable weather and starry nights
⭕️Sisters traveling from the south to the Zhongwei desert should be aware of the dry climate and keep moisturized
⭕️The temperature difference in the desert is significant between day and night, so protect yourself from the sun during the day and wear a jacket if playing outside at night
⭕️Moms who love taking beautiful photos can experience a night at the Yellow River Lodge, which has a unique style and is very photogenic
⭕️The group provides sand-proof scarves and phone dust bags, and it's best to avoid wearing contact lenses
⭕️Parent-child entertainment activities include
✨Kids can experience sand sliding, camel riding, desert surfing, and desert motorcycling
✨Rural life experiences at the Spring and Summer Pasture in the Yellow River Lodge, where you can collect eggs and milk sheep
✨Parent-child desert exploration, wearing spacesuits for a family photo shoot
✨Desert night starry sky sharing session with a teacher explaining and learning knowledge
Thinking back to the last trip to Zhongwei, it was wonderful! It was effortless for moms and the experience was fantastic! 🎉
jacobwhisper
Shapotou Travel Guide
【Introduction】: Shapotou is located in Zhongwei, combining desert, Yellow River, mountains, and oasis. It is known as the "Disneyland of the Desert" with high playability. You can not only see the vast desert but also the oasis in the northern frontier.
🕘【Opening Hours】: April 1 to October 31 (peak season) 8:00 - 18:00. It is recommended to spend a day there. Note that the sand sliding project may require queuing, so it is advisable to go in the morning.
💴【Ticket Prices】:
Adult ticket 80 RMB/person, with three package options:
【399A】Ticket + rafting combo (speedboat + raft) + internal transportation + Feihuangtengda or Biyishuangfei (choose one) + (cableway up + sand sliding down) + desert surfing car + camel loop + Yellow River glass bridge + sand-proof shoe covers.
【399B】Same as A package but without Yellow River glass bridge and sand-proof shoe covers, plus a fast food ticket.
【299】Rafting combo (speedboat + raft) + desert ladder + sand sliding + desert surfing car (regular) + desert camel (regular loop) + internal transportation + Yellow River glass bridge.
⛺【Activities】:
Desert Camel: Ride for about 20 minutes. The camel is tall and wobbles when standing up, so hold the handrail tightly. The ride is stable, and the camel is gentle, with a crisp bell sound.
Desert Surfing Car: It has a sense of weightlessness and is very exciting, worth a second ride.
Sand Sliding: The slope is high, and the board has brakes to control the speed.
Feihuangtengda: Fly over the Yellow River, with a total length of 820 meters. The sliding speed is fast, and the view is unique.
Sheepskin Raft: Drift on the Yellow River.
Glass Bridge: 3D glass bridge over the Yellow River.
Desert Tricycle: You can drive it yourself, 80 RMB per person for 3 kilometers, about 4-5 minutes.
Suggested Play Order: In the desert area, first ride the desert camel, then the desert surfing car, then take the shuttle bus to the Yellow River area, experience the zip line or Biyishuangfei (zip line recommended), sand sliding, take the sheepskin raft to the waterwheel gate, take the electric car to the glass bridge, then take the electric car to the waterwheel gate, take the speedboat to the international sand sliding, take the cable car up for photos, and finally take the shuttle bus back to the time-space gate. If you want to continue playing in the desert with children, you can get a sand sliding board for free.
Play Tips: Use a plastic bag to cover the lens when changing lenses in the desert to prevent sand from getting in; follow the guide's instructions for the activities.
🚌【Transportation Guide】:
From Zhongwei Airport to Shapotou: It is recommended to take a taxi, which takes about 30 minutes.
From High-speed Rail South Station/Train Station to Shapotou:
Take the Shapotou tourist direct bus (about 40 minutes).
Take a taxi to Shapotou Tourist Area (about 35-40 minutes). There are shuttle buses and electric cars in the scenic area. Driving by yourself is the most convenient, but be careful on the highway as there are many trucks.
👉【Itinerary】: It is recommended to stay in a chain hotel, depart after breakfast, and control the travel time to the scenic area within 30-40 minutes. Driving by yourself is not tiring.
🧡【Preparation Before Departure】:
Items: Backpack, each person prepares 2 bottles of water (one for the desert, one for the Yellow River), snacks. There are KFC, cold noodles, and cold skin in the scenic area (prices range from 15 to 30 RMB).
Sun protection: Apply sunscreen, wear sun-protective clothing + sun-protective mask + sun-protective neck cover (if the sun-protective clothing has a hat, you don't need a separate hat) + sunglasses (the desert is dazzling), and the sun-protective hat should have a windproof strap.
Shoes: Normal sports shoes or comfortable walking shoes. You can get free shoe covers at the entrance of the scenic area.
AdventureAwaits!
Why is Shapotou so popular? Discover the must-visit reasons!
💓 Scenic Spot Navigation: Shapotou Scenic Area Travel Guide
📍 Location Coordinates: Conveniently reach the Shapotou Scenic Area parking lot and start your adventure.
🚗 Transportation Tips:
Depart from Yinchuan Hedong Airport, easily transfer to Zhongwei, enjoy a leisurely time, and then return to Yinchuan to complete your journey. Highly recommended:
✈️ Hedong Airport to Zhongwei South: Take the high-speed train, only 1 hour and 12 minutes, with an affordable fare of just 60 yuan per person.
🚄 Zhongwei South Station to Shapotou: Seamlessly connect to the scenic area bus, 20 yuan per person directly to the scenic area entrance. Additionally, enjoy thoughtful services such as pre-booking a homestay or hotel with dedicated car pick-up and drop-off services.
❤️ Must-visit Highlights:
💝 Sand Sliding: Challenge yourself by speeding down from the top of the sand dunes, experiencing the perfect collision of speed and passion.
✨ Yellow River Zipline: Fly over the Yellow River, feeling the freedom and exhilaration of soaring in the air.
🎄 Sheepskin Rafting: Drift leisurely on the Yellow River's clear waves on a traditional sheepskin raft, taking in the scenic views on both sides.
🎉 Desert Surfing: Drive an off-road vehicle through the boundless sea of sand, experiencing the ultimate thrill in the desert.
❣️ Camel Riding: Ride a gentle camel, strolling through the desert and appreciating the magnificent scenery of the vast desert.
🎈 Yellow River Sunset Viewing: Wait by the Yellow River to witness the gentle moment when the sunset's afterglow spreads over the river.
🎫 Ticket Guide:
Shapotou Scenic Area tickets are affordable, with adult tickets costing only 80 yuan per person. Students and discounted groups enjoy half-price tickets, costing only 40 yuan per person.
⚠️ Warm Tips:
🎊 Sun Protection Essentials: The sun is intense, so be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen, and pair it with cool sunglasses and a sun hat to protect your skin.
💕 Desert Gear: It is recommended to bring shoe covers or choose sandals or go barefoot in the desert to protect your feet from sand particles.
🎈 Lens Protection: When changing lenses in the desert, be sure to wrap the lens with a plastic bag to prevent sand from entering and affecting the shooting quality.
Noah Foster
Shapotou - You must visit the desert at least once on August 3rd
🏺 The wind stirs the sand, hot and free!
Seeing Shapotou with my own eyes, it was beautiful and interesting. Yesterday's rain brought today's clear skies. The whole day's itinerary made our feet blossom. We gave up on sand sliding on the slopes because there were too many people, but we checked off all the other activities. The following Shapotou route is really great and worth every penny.
1. Buy tickets at the Time-Space Gate in the desert area:
2. Collect shoe covers at the ticket office (Time Shop):
3. Take the shuttle bus to Shapotou Legend Park after ticket inspection;
4. Experience desert camels with Silk Road camel bells;
5. Experience desert surfing cars in the Dynamic Zone;
6. Take the shuttle bus to the Yellow River area;
7. Take photos and check in at the Wang Wei Viewing Platform;
8. Experience either Flying High or Double Flying (choose one);
9. Take the cableway up;
10. Experience the thrilling sand sliding project;
11. Take a sheepskin raft to the Waterwheel Gate;
Note: (Children 1-1.2 meters tall need to buy a half ticket for 60 yuan/person)
12. Take the electric car to the Yellow River Glass Bridge;
13. Visit the Glass Bridge;
14. Take the electric car or walk to the Waterwheel Gate;
15. Take a speedboat to the International Sand Sliding Center;
16. Take the cableway up and then walk to the Wang Wei Viewing Platform;
17. Take the shuttle bus back to the Time-Space Gate in the desert area.
Bella~Mitchell
Please! First-time must-see guide to Shapotou, experience a whole day's thrill in just 2 hours!
Shapotou Scenic Area is divided into the Yellow River Area and the Desert Area, each with its own characteristics. Due to time constraints, the 2-hour play guide focuses on the Yellow River Area.
📜 TIPS:
The Yellow River Area + Desert Area can be played for a whole day, half a day is enough for the Yellow River Area.
Enter the Yellow River Area from the 'Waterwheel Gate' and the Desert Area from the 'Time-Space Gate'.
Out-of-town tourists can get free admission to the first gate of the scenic area with a Ningxia Tourism Passport.
🛶 Yellow River Area Activities:
Sheepskin raft, motorboat, drift boat, etc., it is more cost-effective to buy a package ticket.
🗺 Time-saving play method:
Buy a speedboat + sheepskin raft package ticket to quickly reach the vicinity of the Desert Ladder.
Take the free Desert Ladder elevator directly to the entertainment area.
Take photos at the check-in platform and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Yellow River, desert, and oasis.
Play sand sliding, zip line, hang gliding, etc., note that the zip line may require a 1-hour queue.
After finishing, take the Desert Ladder to the sheepskin raft station and return to the Yellow River Area exit.
🛶 Sheepskin Raft Experience:
A unique experience, one boatman and four passengers on a raft, the Yellow River flows rapidly, the boatman sings a song, very infectious.
📍 Location:
Shapotou Tourist Scenic Area, Yingshuiqiao Town, Shapotou District, Zhongwei City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.
🚌 Transportation:
Take bus No. 2 to Shapotou Scenic Area.
🎫 Tickets:
80 yuan/person in peak season, 50 yuan/person in off-season.
⏰ Opening Hours:
08:30-18:00.
📌 Tips:
Scenic area play package tickets must be purchased before 13:00.
You can visit the Desert Museum to learn about desert science.
Bring your own sand-proof shoe covers, sunglasses, sun umbrella, and sunscreen.
ANTHONY BUSH
Escape the summer heat with desert camping
Escape the summer heat in Zhongwei and go camping in the desert, where the temperature difference between day and night is significant, so be sure to prepare a jacket. It is recommended to stay in the urban area of Zhongwei and take a chartered car or join a group to camp in the Tengger Desert.
During the day, you can experience exciting activities such as desert off-roading, desert camels, desert grass sliding, and boat tours, while at night, you can enjoy skewers and beer under the stars, standing on the dunes to see the sparkling Milky Way.
Attraction Recommendations
Zhongwei Gaomiao is located in the center of Zhongwei city. As a representative ancient Ming and Qing architectural complex in the desert city, it has a history of over 600 years since its establishment in the Ming Yongle period. Admission is free.
Shapotou
Shapotou is located at the junction of Ningxia, Gansu, and Inner Mongolia, adjacent to the Zhongwei Yellow River alluvial plain. With its vast dunes rolling across the landscape, you can enjoy entertainment activities such as sheepskin rafting and desert off-roading. Admission is 80 yuan.
Tengger Desert
It only takes 40 minutes to drive from Zhongwei City in Ningxia to the Tengger Desert campsite in Alxa Left Banner, Inner Mongolia. There are well-established desert campsites with tents and amusement projects to choose from. You can also ride camels. The minimum camping fee starts at 100 yuan
There are different grades of camping tents to choose from.
Accommodation
Recommended in the urban area of Zhongwei, standard rooms start at 100 yuan
Cuisine
Stir-fried La Tiao, lamb offal, roasted lamb skewers, Eight-Treasure Tea to Camp Perfect Camping Trip
diplomatical_leona
Shapotou Tengger Desert Pure Play One-Day Group Tour.
Fascinated—Shapotou
The vast desert, the Yellow River, the sunset, the oasis, and the simple and sincere human touch... Being in it, you seem to be in a mythically beautiful world, as if you are traveling in a kingdom from 'Journey to the West.' You might even doubt that this is an illusory world. But everyone who has been to Shapotou will be enchanted by its beautiful scenery.
The ever-flowing Yellow River has given Ningxia the reputation of 'Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall,' and Zhongwei, this ancient cultural city in the west, is renowned for its profound history, unique geographical location, superior natural conditions, rich and abundant resources, and deep cultural heritage.
騰格里沙漠
The beautiful scenery and photos of Shapotou in the Tengger Desert.
Having been to mountains, crossed rivers, and faced the sea.
It's time to take a real journey.
There, you can stay away from WIFI, abandon electronic devices,
and be accompanied by camels, lizards, hedgehogs, and beetles.
Experience the vast desert with its solitary smoke and the setting sun over the long river,
see those unbelievably beautiful lakes,
and many plants that only exist in the desert.
The road is long, shall we walk it together?
騰格里沙漠
Shapotou Guide|Eat, Drink, Play, and Stay, Save It Now!
【Introduction】: Shapotou is a 5A scenic spot in Zhongwei City, Ningxia, located near the southeastern edge of the Tengger Desert!
🕘【Recommended Visiting Time】: It is generally recognized that summer and autumn are the best seasons for tourism in the Northern Hemisphere. During this time, the scenery in Shapotou is also the best of the year. Summer mornings and evenings are relatively cool, while noon to sunset is dry! Hot! If you go out to play, be sure to protect yourself from the sun. If you want to play exciting projects, try not to wear skirts, such as sand sliding, camel riding, and zip-lining. Fashionable girls can bring a red long skirt and change temporarily for photos. In autumn, the temperature difference is large, so wear a windbreaker when going out in the morning and evening.
💴【Tickets and Packages】: The scenic area is divided into two zones: the Yellow River Zone and the Desert Zone. The ticket includes visits to both zones (the activities inside need to be purchased according to personal preferences and physical conditions).
⛺【Activities】:
01. Golden Sands Bell - Sand Sliding
02. Crossing the Yellow River on a Sheepskin Raft
03. Re-walking the Silk Road - Camel Riding
04. Brave Game - Yellow River Zip-lining (If you are too light or too heavy, just watch)
05. Galloping in the Desert - Desert Off-road
06. Leap Down - Yellow River Bungee Jumping
🧡【Tips】: The sunlight is strong during the day, and almost everyone is fully armed, making it difficult to take good photos of people, especially when there is wind and sand. Stay at the Star Porcelain Hotel until near sunset for great photos and change several outfits. For day-trippers, just wrap yourself up!
寧夏金旅兄弟國旅
Tengger Desert Shapotou Beautiful One-Day Tour.
On the north side of the sand hill is the vast Tengger Desert, while on the south side is a lush desert oasis. People can both enjoy the scenery of the great desert and gaze at the Baolan Railway stretching into the distance like a green dragon. They can also ride camels across the desert to experience the flavor of desert travel.
Here, you can ride camels through the Tengger Desert, take off-road vehicles across the sand sea, and within a short distance, marvel at the spectacle of solitary smoke in the desert and the setting sun over the long river. You can also watch exotic and ethnically characteristic song and dance performances at the performance center.
騰格里沙漠
How is the place Shapotou?
1. Scenery of Shapotou
Shapotou Tourist Area is located in Zhongwei City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. It is a tourist destination characterized mainly by sand dunes. The area boasts magnificent sand dune landscapes, unique natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage, attracting numerous tourists for sightseeing and vacation.
2. Must-try Activities in Shapotou
1. Sandboarding
Sandboarding is one of the popular activities in Shapotou Tourist Area. Visitors can experience the thrill of sandboarding in designated areas. Standing at the top of the sand dune, stepping on the sandboard, and swiftly sliding down the slope, you can feel the wind whistling past your ears. This activity is suitable for all ages, and both adults and children can find joy here.
2. Camel Riding
Shapotou Tourist Area has designated camel riding areas where visitors can choose to ride camels across the dunes. Camel riding offers an experience that allows visitors to feel the romance and mystery of the desert. During the ride, visitors can enjoy the magnificent dune scenery and feel the stability and comfort of the camel's steps.
3. Desert Off-Roading
For thrill-seekers, desert off-roading is a must-try activity. Led by professional drivers, visitors can hop on an off-road vehicle and venture into the desert for an exhilarating off-road experience. The speed and bumps of the off-road vehicle will excite you, while you can also appreciate the magnificent dune scenery.
騰格里沙漠
Ningxia People Teach You the Most Cost-effective Shapotou Travel Guide.
【Introduction】: As a person from Ningxia, today I want to recommend a tourist spot in my hometown - Shapotou. Here are some of my little secrets for playing in Shapotou;
🕘【Travel Time】: Regarding the travel season, the four seasons in the northwest are distinct, and the time with green leaves is suitable for travel all year round! Regarding the travel duration, the travel season in Shapotou is from June to October.
💴【About Travel】: Enter from the Yellow River area, you can choose a speedboat or walk into the desert area. I walked in, feeling that the journey was not long and I could enjoy the scenery along the way. When you reach the bottom of the slope, you can choose to take a cable car to the top of the slope and experience the Yellow River zipline. Since I am afraid of heights, I directly chose the elevator to reach the top of the slope. After reaching the top of the slope, take a bus into the desert area. When you reach the desert area, you can take photos, ride camels, and play off-road vehicles! After the desert area tour, you can choose to return to the Yellow River area and then take a sheepskin raft back to the exit;
It is recommended that if you are not afraid of heights and like excitement, the Yellow River zipline is definitely a choice you will not regret. You can skip the speedboat, but it is recommended to experience the sheepskin raft!
⛺【About Transportation】: If you come from outside the province, you can fly directly to Zhongwei. I checked the ticket prices and they are acceptable, but I think flying to Yinchuan is faster and cheaper. If you depart from Yinchuan and only want to visit the Shapotou scenic spot, it is recommended to join a tour group. It takes 2.5 hours to reach the Shapotou scenic spot directly! It is convenient and saves money, so it is more cost-effective to join a tour group;
🚌【Food Guide】: The Zhongwei night market is a must-visit, highly recommended. Yellow River carp, hand-grabbed mutton, barbecue, and lamb offal soup are all worth trying! After I went home, I had a barbecue with my friends. Ningxia's lamb is delicious no matter how it is cooked!
👉【About Accommodation】: You can choose to stay in Yinchuan or Zhongwei. Staying in Yinchuan is suitable for those who want to play for one day, with more accommodation options. Staying in Zhongwei, you can choose a homestay near Shapotou, but the price is high and needs to be booked in advance. Staying in Zhongwei is more cost-effective, and you can also visit the Zhongwei night market to taste delicious food. The Zhongwei night market is one of the famous snack streets in Ningxia. Suggestion: If you have enough time, I still recommend staying in Zhongwei, which is both cost-effective and allows you to taste snacks and experience local culture.
🧡【Preparation Before Travel】: Shapotou is very sunny and windy, so umbrellas are not practical. It is recommended to bring sunglasses and a sun hat! Be sure to wear high-top shoes, preferably Martin boots. I wore low-top sneakers and kept getting sand in them. Finally, I bought shoe covers to save myself. You must bring water to Shapotou, but the water in the scenic area is very expensive, so it is recommended to bring more water;
If you have any questions, please leave a message in the comment section. A great place for leisure.
寧夏金旅兄弟國旅
Zhongwei Travel Pure Play Guide.
When traveling to Zhongwei, it is recommended to travel to and from Yinchuan. Depart in the morning and you can check in many beautiful sceneries along the way, such as crossing the Helan Mountain, the Ming Great Wall at Sanguankou, a beautiful highway in Alxa, with camels, cattle, and sheep along the way, which is overwhelmingly beautiful; the Tengger Desert is vast and boundless, Shapotou has the vast desert with solitary smoke and a round sunset over the long river, the beautiful scenery of Route 66 also includes the Yellow River, high mountains, and canyons, with continuous beautiful sceneries.
Although Tengger is not large, its sand peaks are magnificent and grand. The sand grains are fine, soft, and smooth, with a golden and shiny color.
· When you travel deep into the desert, besides the golden sea of sand, Tengger will bring a series of beautiful scenery to the tourists.
· Deep in Tengger, there are many lakes. From a distance, the salt piles by the lake look like snow and ice, and the lake surface shimmers with silver light, resembling a glacier in the sea of sand.
· You can also ride a camel in the desert, take a photo, and experience the taste of desert travel.
騰格里沙漠
Zhongwei Shapotou - Tengger Desert Guide, Save It Quickly!
【Introduction】: Encountering the autumn in the northwest, I took a long-awaited trip to the great northwest during the holiday.
🕘【Opening Hours】: 8:30-17:30
💴【Scenic Area Brief】:
South Area - Yellow River Area, North Area - Desert Area. The Yellow River Area mainly features the beautiful scenery of the Yellow River, where you can experience sheepskin raft drifting, Yellow River zipline, climbing sand dunes, and after crossing the sand dunes, you will reach the desert area. In the desert area, you can ride camels, drive off-road vehicles on the sand, and enjoy many other sand activities.
⛺【Activities】:
01. Golden Sands Bell - Sand Sliding
02. Crossing the Yellow River - Sheepskin Raft
03. Re-walking the Silk Road - Camel Riding
04. Brave Game - Yellow River Zipline
05. Galloping in the Desert - Sand Sea Off-roading
06. Leap Down - Yellow River Bungee Jumping
🚌【Transportation Guide】: Recommended transportation methods, routes, etc.
👉【Play Order】:
East Gate Entrance → Take a speedboat at the pier → Desert escalator → Enter the North Area → Camel field to experience the desert camel team → Dynamic Zone (choose between desert or desert self-driving, make sure to clarify when buying tickets) → Return to camel field → Return electric car → South Area sand sliding field (exciting sand sliding) → Take a sheepskin raft (an ancient means of transportation on the Yellow River) → Watch a 3D movie in the desert at the exit
🧡【Preparation Before the Trip】: When going to Shapotou, be sure to check the weather forecast. Many entertainment projects cannot be played in heavy rain or sandstorm weather.
寧夏金旅兄弟國旅
Explore Shapotou
Shapotou scenic area combines the desert, Yellow River, mountains, and oasis into one, where you can experience the characteristics of multiple regions in one place. It can be said that it not only has the majestic scenery of the Northwest but also the gentle beauty of the Jiangnan area, making it one of the must-visit travel destinations in Ningxia.
However, the Shapotou scenic area is quite large, and it's impossible to cover it all without a full day's time, so remember to allocate a full day for yourself to enjoy it to the fullest. Shapotou is mainly divided into two parts: the desert area and the Yellow River area. The main attractions in the desert area include desert camels, off-road desert vehicles, and desert surfing; while the Yellow River area features bungee jumping over the Yellow River, sand sliding at Shapo Bell, zip-lining over the Yellow River, and hang gliding. In addition, there are water activities such as sheepskin rafts, speedboats, drift boats, and motorboats, which are a lot of fun.
Although they belong to the same scenic area, the desert area and the Yellow River area are actually quite far apart, and the convenience of transportation and accommodation options are not the same. Today, let's first introduce the Yellow River area. Yellow River bungee jumping is what I consider the most challenging activity in the Yellow River area, with a drop of 42 meters, and at the end, you get a certificate of bravery to witness the moment you surpass yourself. Shapo Bell sand sliding is known for its high and steep slopes, with a sand slope of more than 180 meters, making it the longest and steepest sand sliding base in China. When you slide down from the top on a sandboard, all worries are instantly swept away. Next, you can go play with the Yellow River zip line, which has a round-trip length of 820 meters and an average speed of 8 meters per second, allowing you to cross our mother river in a fast and thrilling way, giving you a rare opportunity to get close to the Yellow River.
Tips:
1. Suitable travel season: July - November
2. Recommended duration of visit: 1 day
3. Ticket price: 80.00 RMB per person
4. Opening hours: April 1st - October 31st 08:30-18:00; November 1st - March 31st of the following year 09:00-17:30
BENSON MORAN
The trip to Shapotou is unforgettable with just one visit!
📍 Zhongwei Shapotou, is truly a master of natural fusion! Here, the 4A-level scenic spot is not just a name – you can contemplate by the Yellow River, then turn around and embrace the Tengger Desert, switching from the gentleness of the southern water towns to the boldness of the northern deserts in one second! 🌄
🎢 Want your heart to race? Flying high and soaring together, these are not just idioms, they are the adrenaline rush Shapotou offers you! Ride a camel, listen to the distant camel bells, traverse the desert, or sit on a sheepskin raft, experiencing both excitement and tradition! 🐪
🏎 Desert karting? Sorted! In the boundless golden world, be the true star of speed and passion! And don't forget the joy of sand sliding, let your laughter echo through the dunes, becoming the freest soul~🌊
👉 It's more than just a trip, it's a feast about nature, culture, and self-challenge. Mark your travel list, Shapotou, a place of wonder you'll regret not visiting! 🌟
cassandra.lucindra.nightingale
Ningxia Trip: Enjoy the evening breeze at Liangshan Park, the desert and fields, and the spectacular view of Shapotou awaits your exploration
💕Travel far to the astonishing feast of humanity, witness the grandeur of motherhood in the world. In this beautiful place, you definitely shouldn't miss Ningxia. When you come to Ningxia, be sure to experience the evening breeze at Liangshan Park, and feel the tranquility and beauty.
💕Then take in the beautiful scenery of Ningxia, such as the magnificent desert, vast green fields, and the vastness and majesty of the Tengger Desert. Finally, don't forget to visit Shapotou to experience the spectacular scene described in Tian Wei's poetry, where the solitary smoke rises straight, and the long river sets with the round sun.
💕Ningxia, a beautiful place worth visiting time and again.
Benjamin.Simmons^28
Ningxia·Zhongwei·Shapotou
Ningxia Shapotou is located on the southeastern edge of the Tengger Desert, in the western part of Zhongwei city in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. It starts from the southern forest house of the second sand ditch in the east, extends to the first dune in the west, borders the Tengger Desert to the north, and the Yellow River to the south, with a length of about 38 kilometers and a width of about 5 kilometers, at an altitude of 1300-1500 meters. Shapotou combines the desert, the Yellow River, mountains, and oases in one place, featuring the majestic scenery of the Northwest and the beautiful landscape of the South of the Yangtze River. It has China's largest natural sand sliding field, the 'First Cableway over the Yellow River', the ancient waterwheel representing Yellow River culture, the oldest transportation on the Yellow River - the sheepskin raft, and the rare mirage in the desert. You can ride camels across the Tengger Desert, surf the sandy sea in off-road vehicles, and experience the spectacle of the solitary smoke in the desert and the sunset over the long river just a stone's throw away.
edie_wagner_02
Become a cowboy in Shapotou for once
Visiting Zhongwei, Ningxia, one must mention this must-visit 5A scenic spot, ranked among the global top 500 for environmental protection. It is here that Wang Wei's poem 'A solitary smoke in the vast desert straight, the long river setting sun round' describes — the Shapotou scenic area.
Shapotou combines desert, Yellow River, mountains, and oasis in one place, boasting the majestic scenery of the Northwest and the exquisite beauty of the South. It has China's largest natural sand sliding field, the 'First Cableway over the Yellow River' spanning the river, the ancient waterwheel representing Yellow River culture, the oldest transportation on the Yellow River - sheepskin rafts, and the rare mirage in the desert.
The main conservation objects of Shapotou are the natural desert landscape, natural sand vegetation, achievements in sand control research, wildlife, the ancient Great Wall from the Ming dynasty, the Shapo Bell and other cultural landscapes, and their natural complexes. At the 2018 Northwest China Tourism Marketing Conference and Tourism Equipment Exhibition, it was shortlisted in the 'Magical Northwest Top 100 Scenic Spots'.
Here, you can ride camels across the Tengger Desert or surf the sandy sea in off-road vehicles, and within a short distance, you can witness the spectacular sights of a solitary smoke in the vast desert and the setting sun over the long river.
The great Northwest! It fulfills all my travel desires! 'China is very beautiful, with seven parts lying in the Northwest.' From Tianshui to Dingxi, to Lanzhou, and then to the Hexi Corridor, this journey, besides historical culture and folk customs, is also about vast natural landscapes and more. These are all gifts from nature, such as the Loess Plateau, deserts, Gobi, grottoes, Danxia landforms, high mountains, deserts, snow mountains, grasslands, seas of flowers, temples, etc., all the essence of Gansu's scenery is concentrated along a narrow line, which can truly be said, a Hexi Corridor, half of China's history.
Ellie Nelson
5-Day Tour of Yinchuan, Zhongwei, and Hohhot with Detailed Itinerary
Experience the vast Tengger Desert and the Yellow River
Attracted by the vastness and expanse of the Helan Mountains
Cheering for the grasslands with clouds that cling to each other, and herds of cattle and sheep
Grasslands, lakes, deserts, Gobi...
The five-day parent-child trip ended perfectly.
🚏|Itinerary
🔅D1: Hangzhou - Yinchuan - No.7 Starry Sky Tent Camping Base
✈ Fly from Hangzhou to Yinchuan, pick up the car, and head to the city for a frozen boiled lamb meal
🚗 Drive 2h to Tonghu Grassland No.7 Starry Sky Tent Camping Base, participate in hotel Matouqin DIY, Tonghu Grassland bonfire performance, and enjoy desert sand sliding, sand digging, and photography
🔅D2: No.7 Starry Sky Tent Camp - Shapotou - Yinchuan
🐎 Hotel horse riding and photography, sand sliding, sand digging, drive to Shapotou at noon to ride camels 🐫 and see the Yellow River and other activities
🍗 After that, return to Yinchuan for Yanggazi barbecue
🔅D3: Helan Mountain Murals - Lanshan Park - Shuidonggou - Hohhot
⛰ Drive 1h to Helan Mountain Murals, the vast Helan Mountains along the way, take children to find murals and see rock sheep at Helan Mountain Murals.
🌅 In the afternoon, go to Lanshan Park and then to Shuidonggou for archaeology and sunset watching. Take a sleeper train to Hohhot at night
🔅D4: Hongshiyao - Kuan Alley
🌿 After eating Shaomai at Deshunyuan at noon, drive to Hongshiyao scenic area, the grass has turned yellow, but the blue sky, white clouds, and grasslands are integrated, vast alpine grasslands, herds of cattle, sheep, and horses are very healing. In the evening, after eating Ze Cheng frozen boiled lamb, stroll through Kuan Alley
🔅D5: Dazhao Temple - Hangzhou
Rent clothes for the kids to take photos at Dazhao Temple, visit Dazhao Temple, eat at Gerile's mother, and fly back to Hangzhou in the afternoon
⚠|Notes
❶ The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, you can bring an extra thin down jacket to wear at night
❷ The climate is dry, prepare more hydrating and moisturizing masks
❸ It is more convenient to wear slippers in the desert, wearing socks with slippers will not be uncomfortable
❹ Make sure to choose a desert camping base with a bathroom and air conditioning, it is convenient to wash up after playing in the sand
❺ Public transportation is inconvenient in these places, suitable for self-driving
Limited word count, if you have any questions, please comment in the comment section
TranquilityRetreats
Ningxia Parent-Child Tour | How to Play in the Desert with Kids at Zhongwei Shapotou
Children said they wanted to see the solitary smoke in the desert and the round sunset over the long river as depicted by the poet Wang Wei, so we came to Shapotou Tourist Area·Zhongwei! It was a trip well worth it, and watching the stars in the desert is so romantic!!!
【Recommended Activities】:
√ Sand sliding: Adults can slide with children in their arms, super long sand sliding, fun! Bring masks and face covers for the children, mine forgot and ended up eating sand.
√ Cableway, with both uphill and downhill options, if you're afraid to try sand sliding, you can also take this cableway down, which is one of the transportation methods from the sand sliding area and Wang Wei Viewing Platform to the Yellow River area below, and there is also a free ladder to ride on one side.
√ Camel riding, adults can take children for a ride, enjoying the desert scenery along the way.
√ Desert surfing car, quite thrilling.
√ Sheepskin raft, suitable for children as well.
【Travel Tips】:
√ Shapotou entrance fee: 80 yuan/person, free for children under 1.2 meters.
√ In-park transportation 40 yuan/person, usually included in package tickets.
√ Recommended 399 package ticket (including entrance fee), you can enjoy all the activities inside, and it's quite cost-effective.
【Accommodation Tips】: Recommended by a friend, Zhongwei Desert Longmen Inn, standard room for one night 686 (reference price), the food quality is quite good, the bathroom is very clean, good value for money, and there are desert BBQ, desert hot pot, bonfire fireworks party, ancient costume check-in, etc. in the evening, quite a good experience, recommended!
【tips】:
√ Be sure to bring warm clothes, it feels very cold in the desert due to the wind, and much colder on cloudy days, personally tested that it feels much warmer when the sun comes out.
√ Sunscreen masks and sunglasses are also essential for children, otherwise, they really will end up eating sand.
√ Anti-sand shoe covers are sold at the entrance of the scenic area, and also at the small pavilion opposite the sand sliding area inside the park, 15 yuan a pair.
√ In the evening, if the weather is good, you can see the round sunset over the long river.
Globe-Trotting Grub
In Ningxia, I found the 'desert lonely smoke straight' in Huang Wei's eyes
👯The locals say that Shapotou is their kind of sentiment, they go there not for any project, they will bring some food to sit on the slope.
🌟Shapotou is divided into desert area and Yellow River area, the scenery is inferior to Dunhuang Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring. The desert is not as spectacular as Mingsha Mountain, and there is no blessing of desert lakes like Crescent Spring, but the rolling Yellow River water rushes down, creating a magnificent and spectacular spectacle.
🕹Zhongwei Shapotou Scenic Area Shapotou
💫Shapotou Scenic Area Package Ticket:
🎈Tickets are purchased separately for 80 each
💃Play project 299 package ticket, including speedboat (one-way) + ladder or Su Dao Shangxing + Fei Huang Tengda or Biyi Shuangfei (choose one) + surfing car (regular line) + camel (loop) + ferry car + sand sliding + battery car + glass bridge, some projects queue up too much to take 30-60 minutes,
🎈Shapotou surrounding not stepping on thunder recommendation
🍄If you didn't book Star Hotel, you will return to the city at night, and the taxi will only cost more than ten yuan~ Recommend Hanting Hotel in the city, eating and drinking around is very convenient
🍄Shaxi Li Homestay, on Highway 66, half an hour's drive from Shapotou. It is a style similar to a rural courtyard, with a restaurant, and you can barbecue in the courtyard at night and stargaze.
🥳Ningxia Shapotou Food
🌸Milk skin: Sweet-loving girls must not miss
🌸Fried eggs with sand onions: The same taste as Dunhuang
🌸Cold mixed wolfberry seedlings: Not eaten elsewhere, you can try
🌸Hand-grabbed lamb: The lamb is tender and not smelly, recommended!
🌸Egg bubble: Made with egg batter, crispy and soft, fried is fragrant~