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At Qingtongxia Bird Island, visitors can enjoy bird watching, particularly during migration seasons. The island is a haven for bird species, making it perfect for photography and nature walks. Visitors can also take boat rides around the island for a closer look at the birds and the beautiful surrounding environment.
Qingtongxia Bird Island is home to over 100 bird species, including flocks of wild ducks and white swans and egrets, both nationally protected species of Class II national protection. With its harmonious blend of mountains and water, chirping birds, and fragrant flowers, Qingtongxia Bird Island is a rare scenic spot in western China. Spanning 30,000 mu (approximately 10 kilometers north to south and 3 kilometers east to west), Qingtongxia Bird Island boasts over 5,000 mu (approximately 10,000 acres) of natural forest and over 20,000 mu (approximately 10,000 acres) of Swan Lake, Central Lake, and West Lake. Nearly 10,000 mu (approximately 10,000 acres) of Canadian alfalfa adorn the island. 2,500 mu (approximately 10,000 acres) of planted forest complements over 5,000 mu (approximately 10,000 acres) of natural forest. Numerous wooden houses nestle within the forest, their exteriors harmoniously blending with nature and their interiors elegantly appointed.
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: Bird Island is located west of National Highway 109 and east of the Yellow River, organically integrating with cultural landscapes such as the 108 Pagodas, "Niu Shou Ciyun", one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Ningxia, the Big and Small Xitian Temples, and the famous water conservancy projects in the Yellow River Basin.
free
All day
Qingtongxia Bird Island is an important ecological site located in the Yellow River Basin. It serves as a key stopover for migratory birds, making it a significant area for biodiversity preservation. The island is recognized for its role in environmental conservation and bird protection.
Qingtongxia Bird Island is located in Qingtongxia, Ningxia, about 50 kilometers southeast of Yinchuan. The best way to reach the island is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited, so hiring a car or joining a guided tour is recommended.
The island is open year-round, with peak visitation during the bird migration seasons in spring and autumn. The best times to visit are in April-May and September-October when the bird activity is at its peak.
The entrance fee is around ¥20 to ¥30. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the island, and there are no online ticketing options currently available.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak seasons. If you plan to visit during holidays or weekends, it’s advisable to book a day or two in advance to avoid any delays.
Visitors typically need around 2 to 3 hours to explore the island, which includes bird watching, walking along the trails, and taking a boat ride around the island.
The main highlights include the bird watching areas, the observation towers, and the surrounding wetlands. The bird sanctuary is the most popular spot, offering excellent opportunities to observe a variety of bird species.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not currently offered in multiple languages, so it’s recommended to join a tour if you prefer a detailed explanation of the bird species and the island’s ecosystem.
The best photography spots are at the observation towers and along the shorelines of the island. Early morning or late afternoon light provides ideal conditions for capturing the birds and the surrounding natural beauty.
Start by visiting the main bird watching areas, followed by a walk along the trails. Stop by the observation towers for panoramic views, then conclude with a boat ride around the island to observe the birds from a closer vantage point.
Night visits and light shows are not available. The island is a daytime attraction, and visitors typically explore it during daylight hours for the best bird watching experience.
The island can be quite busy during the bird migration seasons and weekends. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon hours, outside of peak seasons.
Basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations, are available on the island. There are no large restaurants, but small snack shops are available for quick refreshments.
The main areas of the island are accessible to elderly visitors and children. However, some parts of the trails may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. It is recommended to check with staff about specific accessibility options before visiting.
Cash is commonly used on the island, although mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted in all areas, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash.
There are no large restaurants within the island itself, but there are local restaurants in the nearby town of Qingtongxia offering traditional Ningxia cuisine. For a more diverse selection, Yinchuan offers a wider variety of dining options.
Halal food options are available in nearby eateries, given the region’s Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are also commonly found at local restaurants.
There are several hotels in Qingtongxia town, offering budget to mid-range accommodations. For more luxury options, Yinchuan, about an hour’s drive away, offers a wider selection of hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the Qingtongxia Dam, the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Museum in Yinchuan, and the Helan Mountain Rock Art. These can be easily visited in a day trip combined with Qingtongxia Bird Island.
Small souvenir shops are available near the entrance to the island, selling bird-related items, local handicrafts, and eco-friendly products. Typical souvenirs include bird figurines and local crafts made from natural materials.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the most convenient transportation options to continue your journey. Yinchuan, about an hour away, offers bus services and rail connections to other destinations in Ningxia.
