Rolling bell mouth

Introducing Rolling Bell Mouth

Gunzhongkou, located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Yinchuan city, is known locally as "Xiaokouzi." It's a popular outing destination for Yinchuan residents and is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking. Inside Gunzhongkou, you'll find ancient rock paintings, numerous Qing Dynasty buildings, and the former palace of the Republican-era warlord Ma Hongkui. The area also boasts stunning natural scenery. During the Western Xia Dynasty, it was a renowned scenic spot. Li Yuanhao, the founding emperor of the Western Xia, constructed a grand summer palace within Gunzhongkou, but now only ruins and scattered fragments of tiles and artifacts remain.

The Gunzhongkou Scenic Area is surrounded by mountains on three sides and opens to the east. The foot of Bijia Mountain within the scenic area is home to the famous Helan Stone. The scenic area's most distinctive cultural feature is its "Three Religions in One." Within the area, you'll find the mosque, the Helan Temple, and the Laojun Hall. While offering incense and bowing to the Buddha, you can turn around and see the mosque's star and crescent symbol.

While exploring the scenic area, you might spot wildlife like blue sheep and blue pheasants. You'll also find buildings from the Qing Dynasty, such as Xinglong Temple and Wancui Pavilion. Because some areas of the mountain snow in winter, roads may be inaccessible, so it's recommended to visit in spring or summer. The distance from the scenic area gate to the entrance is quite a distance, so if you're traveling by car, you can drive into the scenic area.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate continental climate boasts lush evergreen and deciduous forests, reaching peak beauty during the Spring Festival. Mountain flowers abound, and clear springs abound. At the summit of the scenic area, you can even witness a blanket of snow, a phenomenon known as Yinchuan's famous "Helan Clear Snow." Gunzhongkou, located 35 kilometers northwest of Yinchuan on the eastern slopes of the Helan Mountains, was once a scenic spot in the area and is now a renowned summer resort and tourist destination in Ningxia. It's ideal for spring and summer travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Gunzhongkou, Suyukou, and Helan Mountain rock paintings;

It is recommended to play for 3 hours

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Rolling bell mouth

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Rolling Bell Mouth in Ningxia is a symbolic and architectural marvel, known for its unique design that resembles a bell's opening. It is a representation of the region's cultural heritage and a popular site for those interested in architectural wonders and traditional symbolism.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Rolling Bell Mouth is located in Yinchuan, Ningxia, China. It can be reached by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking from nearby hotels is also a feasible option for those staying in the vicinity.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Rolling Bell Mouth is open throughout the year, with no specific closing hours since it is an outdoor site. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit the Rolling Bell Mouth as it is an open-air attraction. However, for any special events or exhibitions, tickets may be required, which can be purchased on-site or through local tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Tickets are generally not required unless attending a special event. It is advised to check in advance during peak seasons for any changes or events that may require booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend 30 minutes to 1 hour exploring the Rolling Bell Mouth, depending on the level of interest in photography and the surrounding area.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Rolling Bell Mouth structure itself, a stunning piece of architecture.
• The surrounding natural landscape, which provides a great backdrop for photos.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Currently, there are no official guided tours or audio guides available at the Rolling Bell Mouth, but local guides may be available at times. Visitors should consider checking with nearby tourism centers for more details.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Rolling Bell Mouth itself is the primary photography spot, with its distinct design.
• There are several surrounding areas where visitors can capture the structure against the scenic background of the local landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

It is recommended to start at the Rolling Bell Mouth and take a few moments to appreciate the design and take photos. Afterward, walk around the surrounding area and enjoy the views of the landscape. There are nearby parks or natural areas that can complement the visit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available, but the Rolling Bell Mouth can be seen from a distance at night. There are no scheduled light shows or special tours at this time.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Rolling Bell Mouth is not usually crowded. Weekdays or early mornings during the off-peak season are the least crowded times to visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities available near the Rolling Bell Mouth, such as rest areas and some food vendors. More comprehensive services like toilets and shops are available in the nearby area of Yinchuan.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Rolling Bell Mouth is an outdoor site, and the surrounding area is mostly accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. However, some parts of the area may require walking on uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in the area, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted in most places, including food vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local food vendors near the Rolling Bell Mouth, offering Ningxia specialties. In the Yinchuan city center, there are many restaurants and cafes providing a wider variety of options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and halal food options are available at local vendors, particularly given the large Hui Muslim population in the region.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Yinchuan, ranging from budget to luxury options, such as the Ningxia Hotel and various smaller guesthouses located nearby.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Yinchuan Museum, which showcases the region's history and culture.
• The Xixia Tombs, a historical site related to the Xixia dynasty.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few souvenir shops nearby selling traditional Ningxia crafts, including pottery, ethnic jewelry, and local artwork.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, buses, and private transport are available to continue your trip to nearby attractions or back to the city center for further exploration.