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At Shizuizi, visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the riverbanks, take in the local natural beauty, and explore the surrounding countryside. It is also an excellent location for birdwatching and photography, with its serene environment and variety of flora and fauna. Additionally, visitors can enjoy picnicking, relaxing, or even fishing along the water.
Shizuizi, approximately one kilometer long and nestled close to the Yellow River, boasts a continuous pattern of stone-shaped mouths along its banks. The "New Records of Ningxia during the Jiajing Period" records that "Shizui Mountain, two hundred miles northeast of the city, juts out like a mouth," hence its name. Across the river lies Inner Mongolia, where a sweeping gray-yellow plateau stretches into the distance, creating a desolate and majestic scene alongside the flat, expansive river below. During the late Qing and Republican eras, Shizuizi boasted not only the ten major foreign companies but also numerous cultural relics. The area once housed the Yaowang Temple, the Jingtang Temple, the Great Buddha Hall, a mosque, and a feng shui cave. Zheng Wanfu, a wealthy Shizuishan tycoon, even built a new street.
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;
Nearby attractions: Yellow River Red Willow Garden, Riverside Square
free
All day
Shizuizi is known for its tranquil environment and serves as a popular recreational area. The area has historical significance as it is closely tied to the agricultural development of the region, providing both a peaceful retreat and a reminder of the local culture and way of life.
Shizuizi is located in Shizuishan, Ningxia. It can be reached by taxi or private car from Shizuishan city center, which is approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Public transport options are limited, so taxis or driving are the most convenient ways to reach the destination.
Shizuizi is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. The area is accessible at all hours, but it’s best to visit during daylight for the most scenic views and activities.
There is no specific entrance fee for Shizuizi, as it is an open area for the public to enjoy. However, some activities like boat rentals or guided tours may require a fee. These can be paid on-site or through local booking platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary unless you are planning to participate in specific activities, such as boat tours or special events. For these, booking a few days in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
To fully explore Shizuizi, including walking around the area, enjoying the scenic views, and participating in activities like fishing or picnicking, 2-3 hours should be sufficient. For a more relaxed visit, you could spend up to half a day.
The must-see highlights of Shizuizi include the riverbanks, which offer peaceful views and ideal spots for photography. The surrounding natural landscape, with its diverse plant and animal life, is also a key highlight. The area near the water, ideal for picnics and fishing, is popular among visitors.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available on request, but it is advisable to arrange for one in advance. Audio guides are typically not available, but the serene environment allows for a self-guided experience.
The best photography spots are along the riverbanks, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and beautiful. The surrounding landscape, with its greenery and water reflections, makes for great nature photography. The area is perfect for wide shots capturing both the land and water.
The recommended itinerary starts by walking along the riverbanks to explore the natural scenery. Afterward, you can head towards the quieter areas for picnicking or relaxing by the water. If you plan to fish or take a boat ride, make sure to allocate some extra time for these activities.
There are no night visits or light shows at Shizuizi. The area is best visited during the day for a relaxed experience in nature. Special tours or evening events are typically not available, but the serene atmosphere makes it ideal for day-time visits.
Shizuizi tends to be less crowded during weekdays and off-peak seasons. It is particularly peaceful in early spring and late autumn. Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors, especially families enjoying outdoor activities.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets and rest areas. There are no major shops, but small stalls may sell local snacks and drinks. It’s recommended to bring your own food and water if you plan to spend a longer time in the area.
The area is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, although some uneven paths near the river may require assistance. The main areas are easy to navigate, making it a suitable destination for families and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are commonly used and convenient. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller stalls, so it’s best to have a mobile payment option or cash on hand.
There are no major restaurants within the park, but you can find local eateries in Shizuishan city, just a short drive away. These offer traditional Ningxia cuisine and simple meals.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, and some places may offer halal food given Ningxia's Hui Muslim population. However, it’s best to inquire about halal food options at restaurants in Shizuishan.
There are several hotels in Shizuishan, ranging from budget to mid-range. The accommodations are convenient for visiting Shizuizi and offer a good base for exploring the region.
Nearby attractions include the Liupan Mountain for hiking, and the Longyang Gorge for outdoor activities. Both can easily be combined in a day trip with a visit to Shizuizi, making for a full day of nature and adventure.
Small souvenir stalls may be found around the area, offering local handicrafts such as traditional Ningxia embroidery, as well as snacks and natural products from the region.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best option to continue your trip. Shizuishan has a central transportation hub with bus connections to nearby cities like Yinchuan. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the surrounding area.
