Live Your Best Lives
Explore the unique desert landscapes of Sands Island, engage in sand dune activities such as camel riding or dune bashing, and enjoy photography of the expansive sandy vistas. The island offers a serene environment, ideal for relaxation or enjoying the solitude of the desert.
Jinsha Island is a tourist resort integrating desert, wetland, lake, and the Great Wall, incorporating frontier culture, desert culture, and military settlement culture. It offers a wide range of recreational activities, including sunbathing, sand therapy, and fishing. Sand therapy involves burying affected body parts in sand, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, chronic low back pain, and other conditions. Li Shizhen, a renowned Ming Dynasty physician, discussed this treatment in his Compendium of Materia Medica. Here, the natural ecological landscape blends greenery with water, lakes with islands, and islands with lakes, with interconnected waterways and roads, forests, and flocks of birds.
Best in summer and autumn;
It has a semi-arid climate with the characteristics of typical continental monsoon climate and desert climate, with late spring, early autumn, short hot summer, long cold winter, strong winds, abundant sand, drought and little rain.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Summer and autumn offer milder weather, making them ideal for travel. In the summer, Shapotou offers the chance to enjoy a sheepskin raft rafting down the Yellow River and savor local snacks to cool down.
60 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Sands Island is located in Ningxia and is a remarkable desert island surrounded by vast sand dunes. It holds historical significance as it is one of the unique desert formations in the region and serves as a vital ecological and tourist destination in Ningxia's desert ecosystem.
Sands Island is located in the desert region of Ningxia. It is best accessed by car or taxi from Yinchuan, the capital city of Ningxia. There are no direct metro or bus routes, so a private vehicle or organized tour is recommended.
Sands Island is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October), when temperatures are moderate. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter may be harsh for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee to Sands Island is affordable and can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is recommended to check for ticket prices through local tour operators or official websites before visiting.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is advised during peak tourist seasons, especially for organized tours. Booking at least a week ahead is ideal during high tourist seasons.
You can explore Sands Island in a few hours, but a half-day visit will allow for a more relaxed exploration, including activities like camel rides, photography, and walking around the dunes.
The must-see highlights include the massive sand dunes, the tranquil desert landscape, and the various activities such as camel rides or off-roading. The desert's unique flora and fauna also make for great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available, mostly in Mandarin, but some tour operators may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides may be available for rent, although they are generally in Mandarin.
The highest dunes offer panoramic views of the desert landscape, perfect for photography. Sunset and sunrise times provide stunning lighting, making them the best times for capturing the beauty of the island.
Start your visit by exploring the main dunes and participating in desert activities like camel riding. Afterward, hike to higher dunes for panoramic views. Finish with a quiet time by the desert edge or visit the nearby oasis for a change in scenery.
Night visits or light shows are not offered at Sands Island, as it is primarily a daytime destination. However, some special tours may be available for sunrise or sunset photography.
Sands Island is not usually overcrowded, except during national holidays or peak tourist seasons. Weekdays and early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. There are limited food and water options, so it is advisable to bring your own supplies. Shops are minimal within the park, but souvenirs can be found in nearby towns.
The island's terrain may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the sand dunes. Children may find it fun, but be cautious about their safety while exploring the dunes.
Cash is recommended as some areas may not accept mobile payments or cards. It's best to carry sufficient cash when visiting, especially for food or souvenirs.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly on Sands Island. However, you can find dining options in nearby towns such as Yinchuan, where you can enjoy local Ningxia cuisine.
Yes, there are halal food options in the region due to the large Hui Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available in nearby towns, especially in Yinchuan.
There are no accommodations directly on Sands Island. However, Yinchuan offers a range of hotels from budget to luxury, and staying there is recommended if you plan to visit the island.
Nearby attractions include the Western Xia Mausoleum and the Nanguan Mosque in Yinchuan. Both can easily be visited on a day trip from Sands Island.
Souvenir shops are sparse on Sands Island itself, but in nearby Yinchuan, you can find local crafts, Ningxia's famous wolfberries, and traditional Hui Muslim items.
The best way to continue your trip is by car, taxi, or tour bus. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or taking a taxi to your next destination is recommended.
