Yinchuan Travel Guide

Ningxia Autonomous Region | Population: 1,290,170

Yinchuan City is the capital of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. It is located in the central part of the fertile Ningxia Plain and is called the “land of plenty” or the “phoenix city”. The towering Helan Mountains in the north protect the city from the cold Mongolian deserts. The Yellow River flows across the city in the southwest-northeast direction blessing the region with lush greenery. So downtown Yinchuan is sandwiched between tall mountains and the mighty river. The average altitude of the city is 1,100 meters above sea level so the climate is usually cool or cold. Water bodies like Aiyi River and Beita Lake have added to the cities wetlands and greenery creating a healthy environment.

Since ancient times, Yinchuan City has been the birthplace of several cultures. There have been people who came from the central plains of China, the frontier culture which came from the north, the Hetao Culture, the Silk Route culture, the Islamic culture, and the Western Xia culture. These cultures have combined to form what is today’s modern and liberal Yinchuan City and there are several ancient relics that showcase this slow transition.

As the name of the region suggests, the predominant ethnic group living in Yinchuan City is the Hui group. In fact, over 400,000 Hui people live within the city limits. The Huis are devout Muslims who have lived in the regions since the Ancient Silk Route days. Consequently, the city has some of the best examples of Persian-style architecture although there are Buddhist pagodas as well.

Where To Stay

Attractions

The Helan Mountain National Forest Park is located on the Helan Mountain Range and consists of dense forests and superb rock formations. There is a concrete walkway along the cliff face that serves as a vantage point to admire and photograph the splendid canyons and valleys in the region. The cliffs are accessible via a suspension bridge. The area also consists of a massive artificial waterfall adding to its scenic beauty.

Another highlight of the Helan Mountains is the Helan Mountain Rock Art. These are ancient carvings on the mountain cliffs that were created by Chinese nomads around 10,000 years ago. The carvings portray human portraits, totem poles, and various scenes like hunting, war, dancing, and grazing. To reach the site and view the rock art one has to use the electric golf-cart style transport provided for the purpose.

Although the superb Shahu Lake is usually listed as an attraction near Shizuishan City, it is equally accessible from Yinchuan City. The vast lake has several small islands covered with sandy soil and grasses. The scenery has a lovely picture-perfect quality that makes wonderful photographs. The site also has an amusement park and jetty so boating is the best way to explore this scenic area.

The Nanguan Mosque of Yinchuan City is the largest and most beautiful mosque in the Autonomous Region. The Yongning Najiahu Mosque is also a major place of worship for the Hui Muslims in the Yongning Village near Yinchuan City.

Another ancient relic that is definitely a must-see near Yinchuan City is the Chengtian Temple Pagoda. This attraction has several buildings designed with classic Chinese architecture, a tall tower that dominates the complex, and artistically landscaped gardens. Another temple worth a visit is the Haibao Pagoda which was first built in the 5th century and rebuilt in the 18th century while retaining the same style of architecture.

Getting There

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