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At the Shahu Ecological Tourism Area, visitors can explore the vast desert ecosystem, enjoy bird watching by the wetland, or try camel riding. The area also offers recreational activities such as boating on Shahu Lake, walking along the eco-trail, and experiencing the desert's flora and fauna through educational exhibits and guided tours.
Shahu Lake boasts a strategic location, complemented by the surrounding landscape, offering unique ecotourism attractions and rich ethnic cultural characteristics. The tourist area, covering a total area of 80.10 square kilometers, features activities such as lake cruises, sand play, water rafting, lotus viewing, reed tasting, fish watching, and mountain views. A wide variety of local snacks and exquisite craft souvenirs are also available, especially the renowned Shahu Fish Head Banquet, which delights countless visitors. Surrounded by scenic areas, this scenic spot is a "Pearl of the Great Wall," blending the charm of Jiangnan water towns with the beauty of the desert. Over the past decade, the tourist area has welcomed over 7 million visitors from home and abroad, earning it the status of a National Civilized Scenic Area Demonstration Site and a National AAAAA-level Ecotourism Area.
Best from May to October ;
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: Lake tour, sand play, water play, lotus viewing, reed tasting, fish watching, mountain view
Peak season (April 1st - October 31st) is 60 yuan, off-season (November 1st - March 31st) is 40 yuan.
08:00~18:00
The Shahu Ecological Zone is a significant ecological preservation area that highlights the desert's unique environment and biodiversity. It was established to conserve wetland and desert habitats and educate visitors about sustainable ecosystems. The area plays a crucial role in environmental protection and provides insight into desert flora and fauna.
The Shahu Ecological Tourism Area is located in Shizuishan, Ningxia, China. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from Shizuishan city. Public buses may be available, but taxis or rental cars are the most convenient options for tourists.
The Shahu Ecological Zone is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and the desert ecosystem is in full bloom. Summer can be hot, so early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee for the Shahu Ecological Zone is affordable. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Currently, online ticketing is not available, so it is necessary to buy tickets in person at the ticket counter.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it’s a good idea to do so during peak seasons or public holidays to avoid long lines. Booking a day or two ahead is sufficient if you're visiting during busy periods.
It typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Shahu Ecological Zone. For a more relaxed visit with additional activities like camel riding or boating, allocate 4 to 5 hours.
Must-see highlights include the wetlands near Shahu Lake, the eco-trail that runs through the desert, the bird-watching areas, and the desert flora exhibitions. The Shahu Lake itself is a major highlight for photography and recreation.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking tours may be limited, but they can be arranged upon request. Audio guides are generally not available, so it's recommended to join a guided tour for a better experience.
Best viewpoints include the elevated platforms overlooking Shahu Lake and the desert expanses. The eco-trail provides excellent opportunities for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the lighting is ideal for capturing the natural beauty of the area.
Start by visiting the wetlands and Shahu Lake for bird watching, then follow the eco-trail to explore the desert landscape. Afterward, enjoy a camel ride or boat tour around the lake, and finish with a relaxing break in the visitor center.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Shahu Ecological Zone. The attraction is mainly a daytime destination, with its activities best enjoyed during daylight hours.
The Shahu Ecological Zone is not generally crowded, but weekends and public holidays can be busy. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially during the early morning hours or late afternoon on non-holiday periods.
Basic facilities include restrooms, shaded seating areas, and water stations. There are no dedicated food stalls or restaurants inside the zone, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and snacks. There are no shops selling souvenirs inside the area.
The Shahu Ecological Zone has well-maintained walking paths, making it relatively accessible for elderly and children. However, some areas, like the eco-trail, may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility due to uneven terrain. It's recommended to check with the staff for assistance if needed.
Cash is generally required for purchasing tickets and any small services inside the park. Mobile payments and cards may not be accepted widely, so it’s best to carry cash when visiting the attraction.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the Shahu Ecological Zone. However, nearby Shizuishan city offers a variety of dining options including local Ningxia cuisine and fast food outlets.
In the surrounding areas of Shizuishan, there are vegetarian and halal food options available, especially in restaurants catering to the Hui Muslim community.
Several hotels are located in Shizuishan city, offering a range of accommodations from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Some options are within a 30-minute drive from the Shahu Ecological Zone.
Nearby attractions include the Shizuishan Coal Museum, Helan Mountain, and the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Museum. These can easily be combined for a full day of sightseeing in the area.
There are no souvenir shops inside the Shahu Ecological Zone, but local markets in Shizuishan sell regional handicrafts, Ningxia wine, and traditional desert-themed items.
After visiting the Shahu Ecological Zone, taxis or private car rentals are the most convenient transportation options to continue your trip. Public buses are also available, but they may not be as frequent or direct.
