Shapotou

Zhongwei Shapotou｜Explore the stunning frontier scenery depicted by Wang Wei🏜️

Zhongwei is the most romantic city in Northwest China, and you truly understand why only when you stand at Shapotou. Here, the Yellow River meets the Tengger Desert, where golden sand dunes and water waves shimmer together under the sunset, instantly transporting you into the poetic scene of "The desert’s lone smoke rises straight, the long river’s setting sun is round."

📍Must-try experiences:
1⃣️ Shapotou Bell Sand Sliding Area
A natural sand sliding field hundreds of meters high, sit on a special sled and rush down—super thrilling! You slide right down to the Yellow River bank. It’s best to play after 4 PM when the lighting is perfect for photos📸

2⃣️ Sheepskin Rafting
Experience an ancient river crossing tool for only 30 RMB/person—great value! The old boatman sings folk songs while steering the raft, watching the Yellow River flow beside you, a truly unique cultural experience.

3⃣️ Desert Off-road Surfing
The desert go-kart costs 150 RMB per vehicle and is a blast. A professional driver will take you sprinting between the dunes. It’s recommended to wear sunglasses and a face scarf, or you’ll end up with sand all over your mouth😂

4⃣️ Yellow River Zipline
The zipline across the Yellow River (80 RMB/person) offers the best vantage point to overlook the entire Shapotou panorama. The sunset view is breathtaking!

🍜Food recommendations:
Don’t miss "Yellow River Fish Restaurant" at the scenic area entrance!
- Yellow River big carp (freshly caught and cooked)
- Sand scallion scrambled eggs (a desert specialty)
- Artemisia noodles (Northwest specialty noodles)
Address: Opposite the east gate of Shapotou Scenic Area, Yingshuiqiao Town

📌Practical Tips:
✅ Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen! The desert UV rays are very strong
✅ It’s best to enter the park after 3 PM to avoid the scorching sun and catch the most beautiful sunset
✅ Wear high-top shoes to prevent sand entry and sunglasses to block strong light
✅ There are shuttle buses inside the scenic area (extra charge), but you can also walk to all main attractions

🏨Accommodation suggestions:
The Desert Star Hotel is very popular and needs to be booked in advance! If on a budget, stay in Zhongwei city. Recommended: "Zhongwei Kaihui Bo’er Hotel," clean and comfortable, and only a 20-minute taxi ride to the scenic area~