Ningxia Lavender Ecotourism Area, located in Xingqing district of Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui autonomous region, has transformed from a once barren beach of yellow sand into a comprehensive scenic area that integrates ecological protection, leisure vacation, sports and wellness, and a picking experience over 12 years of development.

Covering an area of 776.67 hectares, the region features a desert area, a flower sea area and picking economy.

The lavender fields in Ningxia Lavender Ecotourism Area. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Relying on natural sand dune landforms, the desert area has created a comprehensive and multi category play matrix for all ages, such as karting, desert surfing, camel riding, sandboarding and children's kayaking.

The flower sea area has planted more than 10 varieties of flowers, including lavender, sunflowers and roses, so that flower appreciation is available from April to October.

From May to September, fresh fruits remain available throughout the season, and the area has a large-scale fruit picking area covering mulberries, peaches, apricots, pears and prunes. During these months, tourists can enter the designated area to pick, taste and purchase their own fruits.

The area now has over 533.33 hectares of camphor pine forests. These trees are highly resilient — exhibiting drought tolerance, adaptability to barren soils and effective windbreak and sand fixation capabilities — while also playing a key role in soil and water conservation. In 2025, the area created more than 400 employment opportunities for surrounding farmers and distributed over 5 million yuan ($741,540) in wages.

The black-eyed Susan fields in Ningxia Lavender Ecotourism Area. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]