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At Zhongwei Laojun Terrace, visitors can explore the beautiful terraced fields, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and hike along well-marked paths. It's a great spot for photography, particularly at sunrise or sunset. Visitors can also learn about local agriculture and the significance of terraced farming in the region.
Laojun Terrace, formerly known as the "Xinglongshan Laojun Terrace Quanzhen Temple," has been repeatedly damaged by war, fire, earthquakes, and windstorms since its founding, resulting in the destruction of temples and the loss of cultural relics. During the Cultural Revolution, the temple complex, along with the ancient pagoda outside, was completely destroyed. In the early 1990s, the main structure was rebuilt on the mountaintop platform, restoring the temple to its former glory. Located on Xinglong Mountain in Changle Town, Zhongwei County, Laojun Terrace stands alone, surrounded on three sides by mountains. Its vast and secluded terrace is the largest Taoist sanctuary in northern China. The "Zhongwei County Chronicles of the Qianlong Period" records: "Laojun Terrace Mountain is located east of Gushui (present-day Binggou, Changle Town), surrounded on three sides by mountains. It was once home to a Laojun Temple, hence the name."
Suitable for all seasons;
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;
Famous attractions: Nantianmen, Taibai Hall, and Zhonglou
free
All day
Zhongwei Laojun Terrace is an agricultural heritage site in Ningxia, famous for its traditional terraced fields. The site showcases the region's agricultural practices and its historical significance in the development of sustainable farming techniques in a rugged terrain. It also offers a cultural glimpse into the lives of the local communities who have worked these fields for generations.
Zhongwei Laojun Terrace is located about 30 kilometers from the city of Zhongwei. To reach the site, taxis or private cars are the most convenient options, as there are no metro or bus lines directly to the terrace. Walking is not recommended due to the distance and terrain.
The terrace is open year-round, and the best time to visit is from spring to autumn, when the weather is mild and the terraces are lush. The opening hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's recommended to visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.
The entrance fee for Zhongwei Laojun Terrace is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance or through local tour operators. There is no current online ticketing system, so visitors should plan to buy tickets in person.
Advance booking is not necessary for individual visitors. However, if you are planning to visit during peak seasons or with a large group, booking tickets in advance might help ensure smooth access.
A visit to Zhongwei Laojun Terrace typically takes about 2-3 hours. This allows enough time to explore the terraces, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings. If you wish to hike around the area, you may need additional time.
The main highlight of Zhongwei Laojun Terrace is the extensive terraced fields, with their stunning patterns and agricultural history. The scenic views from the top offer excellent photo opportunities. There are also several lookout points that provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and farmland.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. These tours offer a deeper understanding of the local agriculture, the history of the terraces, and the surrounding natural environment. Audio guides in Mandarin may also be available, but English-speaking guides are limited.
The best photography spots are from the top of the terraces, where visitors can capture the sweeping views of the fields below, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. There are also several designated lookout points that offer a good perspective of the entire terrace layout.
Start by walking through the lower terraces and slowly make your way up to the higher levels. This route gives you a sense of the scale of the terraces and their intricate patterns. Be sure to stop at various points to take in the views and capture photographs. It’s also worth exploring some of the smaller paths that lead to hidden vantage points.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Zhongwei Laojun Terrace. However, special agricultural festivals or cultural events may be organized during peak seasons, providing unique experiences for visitors.
Zhongwei Laojun Terrace can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays, especially outside of the summer vacation and national holidays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the site. There are a few food stalls near the entrance selling local snacks and beverages. There are no large restaurants or shops inside the terrace area, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks with you.
The terraces are not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and stairs. However, children and healthy individuals will find the site suitable for light walking and photography. There are paved paths leading up to certain viewpoints, but some areas require climbing.
Cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted at the site. Credit cards are generally not accepted, so visitors should carry cash or use mobile payment apps for transactions.
There are no major restaurants or cafes within the terrace area itself. However, you can find local eateries and snack stalls near the entrance to the terrace. For a wider variety of food options, Zhongwei city has many restaurants serving both local and international cuisines.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in Zhongwei city, but the offerings near the terrace are limited. It’s advisable to check with local eateries about specific dietary needs before your visit.
There are several hotels in Zhongwei city, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. The nearest accommodations are located about 30 minutes away by car from the terraces. For a more authentic experience, you can also look for guesthouses in nearby rural areas.
Nearby attractions include the Shapotou Desert Scenic Area, where visitors can explore sand dunes and enjoy desert activities. The Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region’s capital, Yinchuan, is also within a few hours' drive, offering other cultural and natural landmarks.
There are small souvenir shops near the terrace entrance selling locally made handicrafts, agricultural products, and traditional Chinese items such as silk, tea, and pottery. The typical souvenirs are items reflecting the local culture and agricultural lifestyle.
The best transportation options after visiting Zhongwei Laojun Terrace are taxis, private cars, or ride-hailing services like Didi. If you wish to continue to other attractions, such as the Shapotou Desert, renting a car or joining a guided tour would be the most convenient.
