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In Shapotou Jiulong Bay Scenic Area, visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as camel rides, sandboarding on the dunes, and boat tours along the Yellow River. The area also offers hiking opportunities with beautiful views of the desert and river. For those interested in cultural experiences, the local folk performances and desert museums are worth exploring.
The Shapotou Tourist Area, a vibrant blend of vast deserts, the mighty Yellow River, towering mountains, and lush oases, showcases the beauty of southern China and the splendor of northern China. It is a renowned tourist destination boasting breathtaking scenery and boundless expanse. The area is an international sandboarding center, where sandboarding on China's largest sandboarding platform, nearly 200 meters long and 80 meters high, feels like surfing on a sandy sea. The 800-meter-long zipline between Dashapo and the opposite bank of the Yellow River is particularly noteworthy, earning it the nickname "The World's First Yellow River Rope." Within the tourist area lies the Tear Spring, whose waters are crystal clear and never dry up year-round.
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;
Main attractions: Tengger Desert; Tear Spring
free
All day
Shapotou Jiulong Bay Scenic Area is known for its stunning desert landscapes and proximity to the Yellow River. It holds historical significance as a key point along the ancient Silk Road. The area has been developed into a popular tourist destination that showcases the unique desert ecosystem and cultural heritage of the region.
Shapotou Jiulong Bay Scenic Area is located in Ningxia, China. To get there, visitors can take a taxi from nearby towns such as Zhongwei or rent a car. There are also buses available from Zhongwei City to the scenic area. Walking within the park is ideal for exploring the dunes and the riverbank.
The scenic area is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be very hot, and winter, though less crowded, may be too cold for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee for Shapotou Jiulong Bay Scenic Area is approximately 80 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and in some cases, online bookings may be available through local travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary, especially during off-peak seasons. However, during peak periods (such as holidays or summer), it’s advisable to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long waits or sold-out tickets.
It usually takes around 3 to 5 hours to fully explore Shapotou Jiulong Bay Scenic Area. This includes activities like camel riding, sandboarding, a boat tour on the Yellow River, and a visit to the desert museum.
Must-see highlights include the towering sand dunes, the scenic views of the Yellow River, and the camel riding experience. The Jiulong Bay section of the river offers beautiful vistas, and the desert museum gives insight into the local ecosystem and history.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they can provide deeper insight into the history and geography of the area. Audio guides may also be available for specific parts of the park, though they are typically in Mandarin.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the sand dunes, where you can get panoramic views of the desert and the Yellow River. The riverbanks also offer picturesque spots for photography, especially during sunset when the colors are striking.
Start with a visit to the desert dunes, then take a camel ride to explore the area. Afterward, head to the Yellow River for a boat tour, followed by a stop at the desert museum to learn about the local culture and environment. End your visit by watching the sunset over the dunes.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Shapotou Jiulong Bay Scenic Area. However, the desert offers a unique night sky experience, and some tour operators may offer special evening events during peak seasons.
The scenic area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in summer. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-peak months (spring or autumn).
Shapotou Jiulong Bay Scenic Area offers basic facilities such as public toilets, water refill stations, and rest areas. There are a few snack shops and local restaurants serving regional food, as well as souvenir stands for visitors to purchase mementos.
The main areas of the park are accessible for children and the elderly, although some parts of the desert may be challenging to navigate for people with mobility issues. Camel rides and boat tours are generally available for most visitors, including children and elderly individuals.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the area. It’s recommended to use mobile payment options for convenience, as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes inside the scenic area offering traditional Ningxia dishes, including lamb, noodles, and regional snacks. Nearby towns also offer a wider range of dining options.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited, but some local restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes. Halal food options are available, especially given the regional Islamic influence in Ningxia.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels near the scenic area. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors may need to stay in Zhongwei or other nearby cities. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Other nearby attractions include the Sand Lake and the Zhongwei Grottoes. These sites offer additional desert landscapes and cultural experiences, and they can easily be visited in a day trip from Shapotou Jiulong Bay.
Yes, there are souvenir shops inside the park selling items like sand art, local crafts, and traditional Ningxia products. Popular souvenirs include handicrafts made from desert materials, local snacks, and small trinkets related to the camel-riding experience.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Zhongwei or other nearby towns. Renting a car is also a good option if you plan to explore more of Ningxia's desert landscapes and attractions.
