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The Pearl of Puning, also known as the Pearl of the Plateau, is located in Xishan, southwest of Xining City, on the top of a mountain at an altitude of 2,395 meters. It is an observation tower built with the aid of Shanghai Pudong New Area, symbolizing the friendship between Pudong and Xining.
The Pearl of Puning is a new landmark building in Xining City that integrates radio and television satellite launches, tourism, culture and leisure, and urban planning exhibitions. It is currently the highest-altitude TV sightseeing tower in Northwest China and is known as the " No. 1 Tower in the Northwest " . It is a shining pearl in the beautiful Qinghai.
The Puning Pearl Observation Tower, designed to stand 188 meters tall, consists of four triangular steel lattices, a spherical upper structure, and a tower base. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of Xining's urban landscape. The tower base is nestled within a circular arched footing, and its vaulted roof and circular corridors evoke the architectural elegance of Western Regions.
The tower's sphere is primarily clad in a glass curtain wall, designed to perfectly reflect the requirements of equipment, craftsmanship, and shelter, emphasizing its transparency and brightness, creating a dazzling pearl. From the sightseeing elevator, visitors can gaze out through the glass. The tower's massive frame resembles a series of picture frames of varying sizes, revealing the beauty of Xining from varying heights.
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The Plateau Pearl is located in the Tibetan Plateau, an area known for its unique natural beauty and cultural significance. The region holds historical importance as a center for Tibetan culture and spirituality, and it is also one of the highest regions in the world. The area’s name, "Plateau Pearl," refers to its stunning landscape surrounded by mountains and valleys.
The Plateau Pearl is located in Xining, Qinghai Province. It can be accessed by taxi, private car, or guided tours. There are no direct metro connections to the site, but buses from Xining city center may be available.
The Plateau Pearl is a natural attraction and is open year-round. The best times to visit are from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
There is no fixed entrance fee for the Plateau Pearl, but some local tours or cultural experiences may require a fee. Tickets for these can be purchased either online or through local tour operators in Xining.
Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary, but it is recommended for guided tours or cultural experiences to ensure availability. Booking a few days in advance is ideal.
It typically takes 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Plateau Pearl, including time for hiking, sightseeing, and visiting the cultural exhibits.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Audio guides may also be available, depending on the tour provider.
Start by exploring the cultural exhibits to gain context about the region, then head out to the scenic viewpoints for photography. Finish with a relaxing visit to the lakeside areas or a short hike to nearby peaks.
There are no light shows or night tours available at the Plateau Pearl. However, the area is beautiful at sunrise and sunset, making it a perfect time for photography.
The Plateau Pearl tends to be less crowded compared to major tourist destinations in China. The least crowded times are during the weekdays or in the off-peak seasons (November to March).
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and food stalls are available at the Plateau Pearl. There are also some souvenir shops selling local crafts and goods.
The attraction is suitable for elderly and children, although some areas may require moderate walking or light hiking. The terrain may not be fully accessible for those with severe mobility issues.
Most places accept mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay), and credit cards may be accepted at larger stores. It's a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases and local transactions.
There are local restaurants near the Plateau Pearl offering Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Nearby Xining also has a variety of dining options, including cafes and international restaurants.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local Tibetan restaurants. Halal food is not as common, but can be found in larger restaurants or specialty shops in Xining.
Souvenir shops near the Plateau Pearl sell Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, prayer wheels, and traditional textiles. Locally made Tibetan incense and teas are also popular items to bring home.
The best transportation options include taking a taxi or local bus back to Xining city center. For further travel, you can use the Xining Railway Station or the nearby airport for longer journeys.
