Immersive Wang Wei Poetry-Inspired Trip to Shapotou

Immersive Wang Wei Poetry-Inspired Trip to Shapotou
The Yellow River estuary at Shapotou, Ningxia, perfectly brings to life Wang Wei’s verse "The solitary smoke in the vast desert rises straight, the long river sets the round sun." Under the sunset glow, the Yellow River sparkles, golden sand dunes roll like waves, and sheepskin rafts drift gently, as if traveling through time.
Riding a sheepskin raft for the first time was both exciting and novel. I never expected this ancient mode of transport to still exist today—truly breathtaking! To experience this unique charm, I recommend saving this detailed guide‼️
📌Detailed itinerary:
Arrive at Shapotou Scenic Area East Gate at 8 AM → Walk 10 minutes to the Yellow River dock → 🛶 Experience sheepskin raft drifting, about 30 minutes → 📸 Arrive at the sand dune area on the opposite bank → 🚡 Take the cable car back to the main entrance of the scenic area.
✨Key check-in spots: Yellow River sheepskin raft drifting, Shapotou Bridge, Sunset Viewing Platform, Sandboarding Area.
🎫Ticket price: 80 RMB/person (includes some activities).
🚗Transportation guide: About 1.5 hours by car from Yinchuan city center, or take high-speed rail to Zhongwei Station then taxi.
🏨Accommodation recommendation: Stay in Zhongwei city hotels, with night markets to explore in the evening.
🎟Sheepskin raft ticket: 60 RMB/person, purchased on site.
‼️Don’t miss the sunset moment‼️ The Yellow River and sand dunes at that instant are breathtakingly beautiful. Also, remember to wear waterproof shoes during the rafting, as river water may splash—don’t make the same mistake I did…
📌Helpful tips:
❶ Desert sunlight is strong; apply sun protection.
❷ Wear sports shoes for easy sandboarding and climbing dunes.
❸ Carry bottled water; the dune area is very dry.
❹ Ensure your phone and camera batteries are fully charged; every shot at sunset is a masterpiece.
❺ The sheepskin raft can be shaky; water-averse travelers should prepare a raincoat in advance.
❻ Evening winds pick up; bring a light jacket to keep warm.
❼ Book tickets online in advance to avoid queues.
❽ The sandboarding area offers roasted corn—delicious and not to be missed!
❾ Wear bright-colored clothes for photos to contrast vividly with the dunes.
❿ In dusty weather, wear a mask to protect your respiratory system.
📷Photo record: Mid-October 2024
The trip to Shapotou deeply made me feel the grandeur of "The solitary smoke in the vast desert rises straight, the long river sets the round sun." Have you experienced the sheepskin raft? Or are there other undiscovered secret spots in Ningxia? Feel free to share your stories in the comments!