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Visit the 108 towers, which are a unique historical and architectural feature of the area. Take a walk around the scenic spots, enjoy photography opportunities, and learn about the history behind these iconic towers. The nearby landscapes, with their desert and mountain views, also provide a great atmosphere for exploration and relaxation.
The construction date of the 108 pagodas is unknown. According to records in the "Da Ming Yitong Zhi" (Records of the Great Ming Dynasty) and the "Hongzhi Xinzhi" (New Records of the Ningxia Local Chronicles), they were previously believed to have been built during the Yuan Dynasty. However, based on Xixia silk paintings, painted sculptures, painted patterns, and inscriptions unearthed during restorations, the pagodas may be relics of the Xixia. Archaeological discoveries reveal that the pagodas have four main body shapes: double bowl, gourd, double bell, and folded belly. Their bases are available in two styles: a cross-shaped folded corner and an octagonal waisted Sumeru pedestal. It is one of the largest extant ancient pagoda complexes in China. The pagodas follow the mountain's contours, arranged in twelve rows in odd numbers: 1, 3, 3, 5, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, and 19. The total number of pagodas is 108, forming a massive triangular complex, 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;
Nearby attractions: Shengshi Hot Spring, Yuquanwan Hot Spring, Tonghu Grassland
free
Sunday - Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Qingtongxia 108 Towers are a group of Buddhist-style towers that were built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. They are an important religious and cultural site, reflecting the integration of local architecture with Buddhist influences. The towers are considered a cultural treasure of Ningxia and are a significant part of the region’s spiritual and historical identity.
The Qingtongxia 108 Towers are located in Qingtongxia, Ningxia. You can reach the site by taxi or private car from the nearest city, Yinchuan. Public transportation may be limited, so driving or hiring a taxi is the most convenient way to get there.
The Qingtongxia 108 Towers are open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the views are clear. Avoid summer afternoons when it can get very hot.
The entrance fee is usually around ¥30–¥50 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit, or in advance through local tourism websites or ticketing platforms.
Booking in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons. You can book tickets a few days in advance through online platforms if you prefer to secure your visit in advance.
To fully explore the site, including a walk around the towers and surrounding areas, 2 to 3 hours should be sufficient. If you plan to take photos or relax in the surrounding nature, consider spending additional time.
The 108 towers themselves are the main highlight, with their distinct architectural style. The surrounding landscapes, with views of the desert and mountains, are also worth experiencing. The area’s historical exhibits provide insight into the towers' construction and significance.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged on-site. Audio guides may be available, but they are typically offered in Mandarin. It is advisable to check with local tour operators for English-speaking guides if required.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the towers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains. Additionally, the pathways and entrance areas provide excellent spots for photographing the towers in various lights.
Start by exploring the main tower area, then walk around the surrounding grounds to capture views from different angles. Visit the cultural exhibits to understand the historical context of the towers. For a complete experience, take a leisurely walk in the surrounding nature.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Qingtongxia 108 Towers. The site is primarily a daytime attraction, and its beauty is best appreciated during the daylight hours.
The site can be moderately crowded during public holidays and weekends, especially in the summer. For a quieter visit, plan to visit on weekdays or during the early morning or late afternoon hours outside peak seasons.
Basic facilities such as public toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available on-site. There are small shops offering snacks and souvenirs, but it’s a good idea to bring your own water, especially in the hotter months.
The main areas of the Qingtongxia 108 Towers are accessible for elderly and children, though some parts of the site may have uneven terrain or stairs. Visitors with mobility issues may find it more challenging, but the grounds are relatively flat in many areas.
Cash is commonly used for small purchases at the site, although mobile payment options (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also accepted. Credit card acceptance may be limited in smaller shops or stands.
There are no large restaurants inside the site, but there are small food stalls and local eateries nearby serving Xinjiang-style food, such as lamb skewers, noodles, and bread. For more options, you can head to Yinchuan city.
Halal food options are available in the area, as the region has a significant Muslim population. Vegetarian dishes can also be found, especially in local eateries offering traditional Xinjiang food.
There are several hotels in Yinchuan, which is the closest major city. Options range from budget to mid-range accommodations. Some hotels offer shuttle services to tourist sites like the Qingtongxia 108 Towers.
Nearby attractions include the Sand Lake (Sha Hu), a popular site for sightseeing and recreation. You can also visit the Ningxia Museum in Yinchuan to explore the region’s culture and history.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Xinjiang handicrafts such as woven fabrics, jewelry, and local spices. You can also purchase small religious items related to the Buddhist significance of the towers.
After visiting, you can continue your trip by taxi or private car. Public buses and trains from Yinchuan are also available for further travel to other parts of Ningxia or neighboring regions.
