Dongfeng Aerospace City

What are the most recommended things to do in Dongfeng Aerospace City?

  • Visit the Dongfeng Aerospace City’s Space Museum, where you can learn about China’s space program and view models of spacecraft and satellites.
  • Take a tour of the Dongfeng Rocket Launch Center, one of China’s prominent aerospace facilities, and explore its advanced technologies and history.
  • Attend educational and interactive space-related exhibitions, perfect for space enthusiasts and families alike.
  • Experience the astronaut training facilities to understand the challenges of space travel and even try out simulations (if available).
  • Explore the outdoor space exhibits, featuring large rockets and spacecraft on display for public viewing.

Introducing Dongfeng Aerospace City

Dongfeng Space City is located in Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia. It is one of China's launch and test bases for scientific and technological satellites, test satellites, and carrier rockets. It is China's earliest and largest integrated missile and satellite launch center, and currently the country's only manned space launch site.

Currently, the attractions open to domestic tourists in Dongfeng Aerospace City include: satellite launch site, command and control center, Long March 2 rocket, test center, Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center History Exhibition Hall, Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery, Ejina Desert Poplar Forest, etc.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

150 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Off-season: 9:00-17:30, last admission after 17:30

Peak season: 9:00-20:30, last admission at 20:30


Most Popular FAQs for Dongfeng Aerospace City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dongfeng Aerospace City is a major aerospace research and development center in Inner Mongolia, China. It is home to the Dongfeng Rocket Launch Center and plays a key role in China’s space exploration and satellite launch programs. The city offers a unique insight into China's achievements in aerospace technology and is a significant site for both educational purposes and technological innovation.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dongfeng Aerospace City is located in the Alxa League, Inner Mongolia, China. The city can be accessed by car or taxi from nearby towns like Alxa Left Banner. There are no metro or bus services directly to the city, and visitors typically use private transportation to reach the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The city is generally open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the best time to visit being from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is more comfortable. Avoid visiting during winter due to cold temperatures and potential snow disruptions.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees for the Dongfeng Aerospace City vary depending on the exhibitions and areas you wish to visit. The average entry fee is around 50 to 100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance. Online ticket purchases may be available, depending on the event or exhibition schedule.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended for special exhibitions or events, especially during peak tourist seasons or public holidays. A day or two in advance should be sufficient for booking tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Dongfeng Aerospace City typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, including a tour of the Space Museum, the rocket launch facilities, and interactive exhibitions. If you plan to explore in more detail or attend special events, allocate extra time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The Space Museum, which showcases China’s advancements in space technology and features models of rockets, satellites, and spacecraft.
  • The Dongfeng Rocket Launch Center, where visitors can see the facilities used for launching satellites and rockets into space.
  • The astronaut training center (if available), where you can try out astronaut simulations.
  • Outdoor rocket and spacecraft displays, providing great photo opportunities.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-language tours are limited but may be arranged upon request for international visitors. Audio guides are not typically provided, but guides can offer detailed explanations during the tour.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The outdoor space exhibit with rockets and spacecraft displays offers excellent photo opportunities against the vast desert backdrop.
  • From the Space Museum, you can capture stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the various aerospace structures.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Space Museum to get an overview of China’s space history. Then proceed to the rocket launch center, where you can explore the launch facilities and see the outdoor rocket displays. Finally, if available, end your visit at the astronaut training center to engage in interactive simulations.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Dongfeng Aerospace City. Special tours may be offered for large groups or during certain events, but they typically require prior booking.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Dongfeng Aerospace City is generally not very crowded, but it may see increased visitation during national holidays or peak summer months. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly outside of the summer and Chinese New Year holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • There are clean toilets available at various points throughout the city.
  • A small food court or snack bar offers refreshments, but more extensive dining options can be found in nearby towns.
  • There are rest areas for visitors to relax, especially near exhibition halls.
  • There are shops selling space-related souvenirs, such as models of rockets and spacecraft, and educational books.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is accessible for elderly and children, though some areas, like the rocket launch center, may involve walking on uneven terrain. The Space Museum and exhibition areas are well-equipped for all visitors, including those with mobility impairments.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used throughout the city. Credit cards may be accepted in some shops but are not commonly used for ticket purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are basic snack bars and small eateries within the city itself. For more dining options, it is best to head to the nearby towns such as Alxa Left Banner, where a wider variety of restaurants are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby towns, but the options within Dongfeng Aerospace City may be limited. Halal food is also available in some areas of Alxa Left Banner.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few basic hotels and guesthouses in the nearby towns, particularly around Alxa Left Banner. For more luxurious options, you may need to stay in Hohhot, which is about a 4-hour drive away.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The Black City Ruins, an ancient historical site that can be visited alongside Dongfeng Aerospace City.
  • The Kubuqi Desert, perfect for desert excursions and photography.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops at the Dongfeng Aerospace City, where visitors can buy space-related items such as model rockets, spacecraft, educational books, and memorabilia.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options to continue your trip after visiting are by taxi or private car, as public transportation is limited in this area. It is also advisable to use a car to explore nearby attractions like the Kubuqi Desert.