1. Water joy on Shahu Lake

The total area of lakes in Ningxia is about 79 square kilometers, with 15 natural lakes each larger than one square kilometer. Thanks to its rich hydrological and historical resources, Ningxia offers a wide range of outdoor activities and experiences. One of the highlights is Shahu Lake. Here, you can immerse yourself in the perfect harmony of water and sand. Shahu Lake is not only recognized as one of China's top 35 premium attractions but is also ranked first among China's most beautiful scenic spots by foreign backpackers.

Once you step into the scenic area, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking landscape where vast water meets yellow sand hills. The Shahu Lake Scenic Area offers a variety of water-based entertainment options, as well as exciting desert tourism projects. In summer, you can enjoy thrilling activities like dynamic airships, spinning gyroscopes, water parasailing, and self-driving motorboats. These experiences allow you to feel the excitement of summer water and make the most of your trip to Ningxia.

Tourists enjoy dynamic airships on Shahu Lake.

2. Sheepskin rafting on the Yellow River 

During the summer, the Shapotou Scenic Area in Zhongwei, Ningxia, is a must-visit destination. One of its top attractions is sheepskin rafting, which has a rich history and holds significant cultural value as part of the Yellow River culture. In the past, it served as a common mode of transportation along the Yellow River. Sheepskins and wooden boards were used to create rafts for people and goods. Although its transportation role has diminished, it remains an exciting water amusement activity in the Shapotou Scenic Area.

Many tourists visiting Ningxia choose to embark on an adventurous journey riding the sheepskin rafts in Shapotou, while enjoying the melodious tunes sung by the skilled rafters. This unique experience creates lasting memories for travelers seeking excitement and fun.

Tourists enjoy sheepskin rafting on the Yellow River.

3. Bird watching

Ningxia is a significant migration route and breeding ground for East Asian birds. With over 320 bird species settling and breeding in the region, millions of birds pass through Ningxia annually. Efforts to protect and restore wetlands have improved ecological conditions, making Ningxia's lakes, wetlands, mountains, and rivers attractive habitats for diverse bird species. Enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching at locations such as the Guyuan Qingshui River National Wetland Park, Yinchuan Yange Lake, Qingtongxai Yellow River Bird Island, Yinchuan Mingcui Lake, Beita Lake, and Yongning Hequan Lake.

4. Fishing

Yinchuan has a wetland area of 39,700 hectares, 60% of which is totally natural. There are nearly 200 lakes, of which more than 20 lakes each has an area of over 100 hectares. The abundant rivers and water resources make it a favorite destination for young anglers in Ningxia. In the spring, as the ice melts on various water bodies, you will always see people fishing by the riverside and lakeside.

Recommended fishing spots

Ningxia Guangqin Leisure Fishing Center

Address: 1 kilometer east of Mingcui Lake, Zhangzheng Town, Xingqing District, Yinchuan

Yuehai No. 9 Lake Wild Fishing

Address: Yuehai No 9 Wild Fishing, the Huanyuehai Lake Road, Yinchuan