Xinghai Lake, Shizuishan｜The Perfect Blend of Northern Frontier Wetlands and Urban Leisure

Located in Dawukou District, Shizuishan City, Ningxia, Xinghai Lake is a comprehensive tourist attraction integrating wetland ecology, cultural landscapes, and urban leisure functions. It was transformed from a former flood detention area and now features clear waters, swaying reeds, and flocks of gulls, earning it the nickname "Pearl of the Northern Frontier." The scenic area covers approximately 43 square kilometers, with over 20 square kilometers of water, forming a unique symbiotic system of "mountains, water, sand, reeds, birds, and fish." It has become a rare ecological oasis and a recreational backyard for residents in this industrial city.

Highlights and Unique Experiences
The most attractive feature of Xinghai Lake is its rich ecological scenery and diverse leisure activities. The lake area has multiple viewing platforms and waterside boardwalks where visitors can stroll and admire the vast reed beds and flocks of water birds. Especially in spring and autumn, it is a paradise for birdwatching and photography. The scenic area also offers a lakeside bike path and walking trails, ideal for cycling or hiking. For families, the children's playground, sand sculpture park, and water entertainment options such as boating and speedboats are very appealing. For a deeper experience, visitors can climb to the Xingchen Square or nearby hills to overlook the magnificent panoramic view of the entire lake area.

Practical Tips and Food Recommendations
There is no entrance fee to visit Xinghai Lake; it is open to the public for free, but some entertainment activities inside (such as boating) require additional payment. It is recommended to spend half a day to a full day exploring. The best seasons to visit are spring, summer, and autumn, with summer offering refreshing lake breezes and especially comfortable weather. Regarding food, Shizuishan is located in Ningxia, where you can enjoy authentic halal flavors such as hand-pulled lamb, lamb noodles with minced meat sauce, and assorted stews. After your visit, you can head to the city to find local restaurants and savor the rich flavors of Northwest Chinese cuisine.

Transportation Guide
Xinghai Lake Scenic Area is conveniently accessible. If you are departing from Shizuishan city, you can take several bus routes (such as routes 3, 5, 7, etc.) directly to the "Xinghai Lake" or "Xinghai Square" stops. If coming from Yinchuan, you can take a shuttle bus from the Yinchuan Tourist Bus Station to Dawukou, then transfer to city buses or taxis. Self-driving visitors will find it even more convenient; use navigation to search for "Shizuishan Xinghai Lake Scenic Area." From Yinchuan, take the G6 Jingzang Expressway to the S27 Shiyin Expressway, about a one-hour drive. Parking lots are available around the scenic area.

Post by NIA BRIGGS | Oct 17, 2025