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Xixia Imperial Tombs
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Yinchuan

Xixia Imperial Tombs

7.8
4.6/5
9.1k reviews
Xixia Imperial Tombs, located in the western suburbs of YinchuanHelan MountainThe Western Xia Mausoleum served as the royal burial site of the Western Xia Dynasty, where several emperors were interred. Today, the entire mausoleum complex contains 9 imperial tombs and over 140 accompanying burial sites, making it one of the largest royal burial grounds in Chinese history by area. The tombs feature a unique inverted steamed-bun shape unlike any other Chinese mausoleums. Additionally, the attraction includes facilities such as the Western Xia Mausoleum Museum, Western Xia Mausoleum - Western Xia Historical Art Gallery, and Western Xia Stele Forest to help visitors understand the historical and cultural significance behind these tombs. The attraction currently has mausoleums No. 1, 2, and 3 open for visitors. Mausoleum No. 3 (the "Tai Mausoleum" of Li Yuanhao, founding emperor of the Western Xia Dynasty) is located relatively close to The Western Xia Mausoleum's Western Xia History Art Museum and Western Xia Stele Forest. The Western Xia Dynasty was established by the Tangut people, with distinct writing systems and customs different from the Han Chinese of the Central Plains. After the dynasty's fall, its cities and history mysteriously vanished into the Gobi Desert, becoming an enduring enigma until modern discoveries and interpretations. The Western Xia Mausoleum Museum houses a rich collection of artifacts from the dynasty, including many precious stone carvings with Tangut script and murals showcasing Western Xia artistic styles. The museum offers free guides that provide fascinating insights into the customs, culture, rise, and fall of this mysterious dynasty, enhancing visitors' experience when exploring the mausoleum. On July 11, 2025, the Western Xia Mausoleum was officially inscribed on the World Heritage List. You can visit the Haowang Mausoleum up close within the attraction. The massive inverted semicircular tomb stands on the wasteland, bringing centuries of history vividly before your eyes, while in the distance...Helan MountainThe rugged ravines of the mountain ridges evoke a profound sense of desolate grandeur and timeless vicissitude. The Western Xia Mausoleum Museum inside the attraction has been newly unveiled. The exhibits are divided into six sections: history of Western Xia, Western Xia culture, Western Xia religious art, Western Xia socio-economy, Western Xia Mausoleum, and preservation & inheritance. Nearly 5,000 artifacts are displayed, including thangka paintings, documents, clay sculptures, bronze and ironware, textiles, and porcelain. Many of these are exquisite cultural relics unearthed during recent archaeological research at the Western Xia Mausoleum.Yinchuan · 22.4 km from downtown
China West Film Studio
No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Yinchuan

China West Film Studio

7.7
4.5/5
20.1k reviews
Zhenbeibao Western Cinema is located in Xixia District, Yinchuan City. In this studio, which is characterized by simplicity, roughness and desolation, classic films such as "Wrangler", "Red Sorghum", "Journey to the West", "Thorn Mausoleum", "Jin Yiwei" and hundreds of influential film and television films were filmed. In the remaining part, a large number of celebrities from the Chinese film industry have left their footprints here, such as Gong Li, Jiang Wen, Zhang Yimou, Ge You, Zhou Xingchi, Donnie Yen and so on. The cinema consists of three parts: Mingcheng, Qingcheng and Old Yinchuan Street. Tourists can visit the cinema along the "figure 8" route of Old Yinchuan Street. Here, you can see the appearance of Yinchuan in the first half of the 20th century, and eat local traditional snacks such as mutton soup. The Ming and Qing cities in the film city were rebuilt from the military castles left over from the Ming and Qing dynasties. In the Ming and Qing cities, you can see many familiar movie scenes, such as: the gate tower where Sun Wukong and Fairy Zixia are standing in "Journey to the West", the throne of the Bull Demon King, the torture platform of the Tang monk; and the movie "Journey to the West" The Moon Gate in "Red Sorghum", the winemaking workshop where "My Grandpa" urinated after being drunk, the sedan chair that Jiu'er took when he got married, the big vat for wine, and the bowls. There are costumes and props for rent in many places in the studio. Here, you can wear a set of costumes in the play, use the props in the movie, and walk around the scenes of the movie to live the addiction of being a star. Before going to Zhenbeibao Western Studios, you can revisit a few classic movies first, and then go to visit, you will have a different feeling.Yinchuan · 19.9 km from downtown
Helan Mountain Rock Painting
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Ningxia

Helan Mountain Rock Painting

7.4
4.6/5
6.1k reviews
Helan Mountain Rock Painting Scenic Area is a national key cultural relic protection unit and a national 4A-level tourist attraction. It is known as the "history book in stone", "prehistoric human art gallery" and "the place where Chinese culture traces its origins". The Yinchuan World Rock Art Museum in the scenic area displays representative rock art from more than 60 countries and regions in the world, covering the latest results and information of current rock art research. There are 6,000 prehistoric rock paintings between 3,000 and 10,000 years old in the rock art site area. They are renowned in the international rock art community for their large number, rich content, wide range of themes, and rarity in the world. Yinchuan Han Meilin Art Museum collects and exhibits more than 1,000 works inspired by and based on Helan Mountain rock paintings by Mr. Han Meilin, showing the fusion of ancient and modern. After years of protective development, the scenic spot has become a comprehensive tourist attraction integrating exhibitions, science education, research and exchanges, artistic creation, leisure vacations and other functions.Helan · 35 km from downtown
Ningxia Museum
No. 3 of Family-friendly Attractions in Ningxia

Ningxia Museum

7.3
4.8/5
1.1k reviews
The Ningxia Museum is a provincial-level comprehensive museum in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. The building's floor plan is shaped like the Chinese character "回" (hui), reflecting the region's name. The architectural elements used in the exterior decorations, such as the Kalavinka (a mythical bird) and the strongman-shaped support base, as well as the decorative patterns on the four main gates, are representative of Ningxia's historical and cultural heritage and possess distinct regional characteristics. The museum has four floors, with the three ground floors open to the general visitors. The first floor of the museum houses the visitor service hall and temporary exhibition halls. Here, you'll also find the rock painting exhibition titled "Stone carvings as history books." Stepping into this hall feels like entering an ancient era. While travelers often prefer visiting the ancient rock paintings in Helan Mountain, many rock art sites across Ningxia remain less visited due to their remote locations and limited transportation. In this exhibition hall, visitors can get up close with a wider collection of Ningxia's rock paintings. The museum's second floor houses the "General history of Ningxia exhibition hall," a key area for travelers. Treasures like the Western Han dynasty silver-inlaid bronze sheep, Tang dynasty stone door panels depicting the Sogdian whirl dance, Western Xia dynasty gilded bronze ox, and human figure pedestals are all displayed here. Travelers can also view rubbings of the "Stele inscription of the reconstructed Huguo Temple stupa in Liangzhou," where the Western Xia script appears more block-like than Chinese characters. The third floor features folk culture exhibits, including interactive electronic screens for experiencing Ningxia's unique square chess game.Yinchuan · 451m from downtown
Ning Xia Helan Mountain National Forest Park
No. 1 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Yinchuan

Ning Xia Helan Mountain National Forest Park

6.8
4.5/5
2.6k reviews
Helan Mountain National Forest Park, located about 50 kilometers west of Yinchuan city, has rich natural landscapes and unique cultural landscapes. The Attraction is full of layers of forests, with towering natural trees such as Chinese pine, juniper, and spruce. Visitors here can not only enjoy the charming night and sunrise of Helan Mountain, but also have the opportunity to see running red deer, jumping blue sheep, playing blue pheasants and other important national protected wild animals. After entering the Attraction, you will see the welcoming area of ​​the Attraction, where there is a visitor center and a museum. You can choose to take the sightseeing bus in the Attraction to Songtao Mountain Villa and start climbing from here (you can also take the cable car up the mountain). Generally, you can walk to Qingsongling in about 40 minutes. After walking in the canyon for about an hour, you can reach the highway, wait for the sightseeing bus, and return to the gate of the Attraction. The Attraction is rich in historical and cultural connotations. Religious culture, Xixia culture, rock painting culture, etc. blend here, giving the Helan Mountain National Forest Park rich historical and cultural connotations. The "Sanqing Temple", "Lingguang Temple", "Lingguang Tower", "Lingguang Cave" and other buildings restored on the ruins of the ancient Xixia temple recreate the long history of Buddhist and Taoist culture; the rich Helan Mountain Museum is a microcosm of the Helan Mountain culture, consisting of the Rock Sheep Special Hall, Helan Mountain Landform Sand Table, History and Culture Hall, Mineral Resources and Environment Hall, and other venues. The Attraction is very large. When visiting, you should follow the schematic diagram or signboards in the Attraction. Do not go to remote places alone. There is no mobile phone signal in many areas of the Attraction. If you want to hike in the wild, you must join a local outdoor team.Helan · 41 km from downtown
Shuidonggou Tourist Attraction
No. 2 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Yinchuan

Shuidonggou Tourist Attraction

6.8
4.6/5
8k reviews
Shuidonggou is a Paleolithic cultural site excavated in China. It is known as "the birthplace of Chinese prehistoric archaeology" and "a historical witness of cultural exchanges between China and the West". It is a national key cultural relic protection unit, a national AAAAA-level tourist Attraction, and a national geological park. It is listed by the state as one of the 100 major sites under national cultural relic protection and one of the "100 archaeological discoveries of great significance to Chinese civilization". The Shuidonggou site records the historical witness of the reproduction and struggle of ancient humans with nature, and contains rich and precious prehistoric data. It shows people the survival picture of ancient humans 40,000 years ago. It is the Paleolithic site that has been officially excavated in the Yellow River region in China so far. In 1923, French paleontologists Teilhard and Sang Zhihua discovered a prehistoric cultural site here. Through excavation, a large number of stone tools and animal fossils were unearthed. Shuidonggou has therefore become the ancient human cultural site where the Paleolithic Age was discovered in China. Today, over the past 80 years, after six archaeological excavations, more than 30,000 stone tools and 67 ancient animal fossils have been unearthed in Shuidonggou. Shuidonggou is also a well-preserved military defense architecture in northern my country, including the ancient Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty, the Hengcheng Dabian, beacon towers, city barriers, forts, and caves for hiding soldiers. Shuidonggou is located on the southern edge of the Ordos plateau. The Yadan landform created by nature has experienced tens of millions of years of wind and sand erosion. There are more than 20 unique earth forest landscapes here, including the Devil City, Wotuo Ridge, Motian Cliff, Duanyun Valley, and Tamarix Valley.Lingwu · 26.3 km from downtown
Seeing Helan Performing Arts Town
No. 1 of Night Attractions in Ningxia

Seeing Helan Performing Arts Town

6.4
4.8/5
1.8k reviews
Manpu See Helan is an immersive performing arts town located at the foot of the Helan Mountains in Ningxia, China. The project starts from Helan culture, presents the beauty of Helan with super high appearance, awakens Helan culture with immersive performances, and tells the story of Ningxia with fireworks blocks, aiming to let the world truly see Helan and let the world see Ningxia again, giving tourists a wild journey to see themselves. The project focuses on performing arts experience and creates a 240-minute ultra-immersive night show, allowing tourists to have a new cultural and tourism experience that integrates immersive performances, eating Northwest cuisine, visiting intangible cultural heritage blocks, visiting art shops, soaking in local hot springs, staying in special theme homestays, etc., completely intoxicated by the starry sky under the Helan Mountains, and experiencing the magic of Ningxia in one stop.Yinchuan · 20.5 km from downtown
Ningxia Geological Museum
No. 8 of Family-friendly Attractions in Ningxia

Ningxia Geological Museum

6.3
4.8/5
733 reviews
The Ningxia Geological Museum is located to the east of People's Square East Street and to the south of Helan Mountain Road in Jinfeng District, Yinchuan City. It is a provincial-level thematic museum that integrates modernization, high technology and local characteristics of Ningxia, focuses on serving the public, and takes into account the needs of scientific researchers. Outside the museum is the Geological Culture Square. Inside the museum are the introductory hall, Earth Science Hall, Life Evolution Hall, Geological Environment Hall, Mineral Resources Hall, Geological Work Hall, Gemstone and Ornamental Stone Exhibition Area,4DCinema. Collection of various rock, mineral and paleontological fossil specimens16000It has the functions of displaying rare mineral specimens, popular science education, scientific research, leisure and entertainment, and is an ideal place for the public to visit, appreciate, relax and entertain, and for geological professionals to conduct related research.Yinchuan · 1.4 km from downtown
Yinchuan Lanshan Park
No. 3 of Night Attractions in Ningxia

Yinchuan Lanshan Park

6.3
4.5/5
93 reviews
Lanshan is located in the north of Yinchuan City, and is adjacent to Water Street in the east. The west and south are interdependent with Yuehai Park, and the north is connected with the vast fields. A huge Islamic-style gate made of alloys is magnificent in shape and looks like a galloping horse.Yinchuan · 5 km from downtown
Huangshagudu Tourism Scenic Spot
No. 3 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Yinchuan

Huangshagudu Tourism Scenic Spot

5.8
4.4/5
1.3k reviews
Huangsha Ancient Ferry is a pristine ecotourism destination in the frontier region and one of Ningxia's 21 iconic views. Named after the yellow sands on the right bank of this Ming Dynasty crossing, it ranks among Ningxia's eight celebrated landscapes from the Ming-Qing period alongside "Helan Mountain's Clear Snow" and "Moon Lake's Sunset Glow." Since the Wei-Jin Southern-Northern Dynasties era, this site served as a crucial Yellow River transportation hub. The Tang Dynasty established the Liucheng Water Transport Office to specifically manage river shipping across Ningxia and Inner Mongolia. Zhu Fan, Prince Qing and son of Ming Emperor Hongwu, immortalized the ferry in his poem: "Boundless yellow sands stretch afar, where travelers seek passage year after year. Distant tribes pay homage to the imperial court, while officials connect with ancient Qin's domain. Breezes ripple the shoals' shimmering waters, rains refresh the islets' verdant hues. Westward gaze traces the river's celestial source - turbulent flows descending from Kunlun's peaks." The verses not only praise the natural beauty but also underscore Huangsha Ancient Ferry's vital historical role in regional transportation. Huangsha Ancient Ferry is located in Yueyahu Township, Xingqing District, Yinchuan, on the eastern bank of the Yellow River. It is 28 km from downtown Yinchuan, 38 km from Yinchuan Hedong Airport, and 43 km from Yinchuan Railway Station. The attraction spans 32.4 square km. Here, you can visit the ancient ferry crossing where Emperor Kangxi crossed the Yellow River, explore Yueyahu Lake left behind by Wang Zhaojun's journey to the frontier, and immerse yourself in the desert scenery, ancient Yellow River charm, natural wetlands, and the unique frontier landscape of golden sands embracing the mighty river—a perfect destination for eco-friendly independent travel. Experience camel rides across the dunes, rafting on inflatable rafts, surfing the sandy waves, and wetland sightseeing for endless exhilarating fun. The Yellow River Ancient Ferry Museum and Folk Culture Museum offer insights into the region's heritage, allowing you to connect with this millennia-old crossing. Huangsha Ancient Ferry consists of eight distinct zones: functional service area, desertification control promotion and testing area, ecological civilization exhibition area, Yellow River wetland conservation area, desert amusement valley, Yellow River ancient ferry cultural area, frontier fortress experience zone, and folk culture park. We've meticulously preserved the site's historical legacy by restoring numerous landmarks including Huanglong Terrace, Huangsha Point, Ninghe Terrace, Yuwang Pavilion, Sunrise Viewing Platform, Yuwang Well, Huanglong River Guardian, ancient ferry port, Yellow River fishing village, Yellow River ancient town, ferry family residences, Yellow River Tower at Huangsha Ancient Ferry, Hunhuai Barrier, Reed Marsh Snowscape, Yellow River homesteads, ancient ferry crossing, Yellow River hamlet, desert smoke with sunset over the Yellow River, beacon tower, Hengcheng Ancient Ferry, Hengcheng Fort river crossing, Prince Zhu Di's border patrol, Emperor Kangxi's Yellow River crossing, ancient Yellow River melodies, the Princess Zhaojun Peace Marriage Monument, and other heritage sites. We've also reconstructed the desert camel camp, northern desert military base, old sheep pens along the Yellow River banks, ancient Yellow River course, frontier pasturelands, and sand control family compounds.Yinchuan · 28.5 km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Yinchuan

Featured Day tours in Yinchuan

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Private 1-day tour in Yinchuan | World heritage site The Western Xia Mausoleum + Helan Mountain Rock Painting + Chateau Yuanshi tasting
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FromUS$178.72
Private 1-day tour in Yinchuan · Shahu ecological zone + China West Film Studio
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Duration: 9.1 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
FromUS$190.63
Private 1-day tour in Yinchuan · Shuidonggou ruins + Qingtongxia Yellow River grand canyon
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 9.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
FromUS$234.89
Private Charter| Yinchuan Day Tour: Western Xia Imperial Tombs + Helan Mountain Rock Paintings + Wine‑Tasting Experience at YuanShi Winery
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FromUS$91.07

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What travelers say about Yinchuan

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淘淘0728October 22, 2026
5.0
It's definitely worth a visit. First of all, the corridor outside the museum is incredibly photogenic. Personally, I think visiting Tomb No. 3 is enough; the others are pretty much the same. The museum itself is worth a visit, and a guided tour is even better, providing a more direct understanding of Western Xia culture and interesting anecdotes.

Xixia Imperial Tombs

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子秋璟雯October 20, 2026
4.0
A film and television base. Many films and television dramas are filmed here. Most of the paths in the park are gravel dirt roads, so it's recommended to wear thick hiking shoes, otherwise your feet will protest. Overall, it's quite nice and worth a visit.

China West Film Studio

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M41***34October 19, 2026
4.0
The scenic area is quite large, but its main attraction is rather singular: the various rock paintings carved into the cliff faces. However, since they are remnants of the daily lives of ancient people, they are still worth seeing.

Helan Mountain Rock Painting

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M62***79October 20, 2026
5.0
The building is grand and the facilities are good, but the introduction of the value of key cultural relics needs improvement. The museum should strive to leave a deeper impression on visitors.

Ningxia Museum

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M34***87September 27, 2026
5.0
Helan Mountain National Forest Park primarily offers a close-up view of the Helan Mountains. The mountain has relatively low vegetation cover and is mainly composed of rocks. You need to take a shuttle bus to the foot of the mountain, and then choose to take a cable car or hike to the summit (approximately 20-40 minutes). There are many snacks available on the mountain, as well as spectacular high-altitude acrobatic performances. Along the way, you can also spot wild animals such as blue sheep.

Ning Xia Helan Mountain National Forest Park

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GordHOctober 18, 2026
4.0
Excellent. A site with lots to see and experience, it takes a few hours to go around the circular route, sometimes walking, with horse or camel drawn buggies or minivans taking you between locations. The museums and displays are good, The Paleolithic finds here helped rewrite understanding on early human life in the region, and seeing part of the old earthen bank section of the Ming Wall, and hidden tunnel fort, then the impressive new Great Wall Museum, provided some superb memories.I joined the tour bus at what was called the Western Bus Station (but is known by other names and is south of the rail station, past the first bus depo, then over the road, and in the western end of three buildings). After security there was a waiting area and information desk where we met.  Several others joined at pre-arranged pickup points on route to the destination. We were taken to the entrance, tickets got for us, told when to be back at the bus, then left free to explore..

Shuidonggou Tourist Attraction

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羽你有媛October 3, 2026
5.0
This place is suitable for those who are willing to participate in activities. Otherwise, you can just watch the shows, eat and drink, which won't be very interesting. You have to participate to have fun. 360 Viewing is good, and Princess Hongcheng is worth watching.

Seeing Helan Performing Arts Town

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M41***33August 31, 2026
5.0
This stay was very pleasant. Xiao Lin at the front desk was exceptionally friendly and responsive during check-in, patiently and meticulously answering all my questions. She was also very efficient. The hotel was quiet and clean overall, and the rooms were spotless and comfortable. The location was convenient for getting around, and the overall value for money was excellent. Xiao Lin's thoughtful service greatly enhanced my trip, and I would definitely choose this hotel again if needed. I also recommend it to everyone.

Ningxia Geological Museum

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Anonymous userOctober 6, 2026
5.0
The moment the accelerator was pressed, the speedboat, nicknamed the "Ferrari of the water," shot off like an arrow, slicing through the mirror-like surface. The wind whistled past our ears, and tiny waves gently grazed the hull, leaving smooth white trails. Our vision unfolded along the expansive water, the outline of Lanshan Park gradually becoming clear along the shoreline. The dark green mountains, shrouded in lush vegetation, reflected in the shimmering water, while pavilions nestled among the trees added a touch of tranquility. The entire journey was seamless; the speed of the speedboat cutting through the waves blended perfectly with the breathtaking scenery, every second filled with exhilarating joy. A sea breeze carrying a light mist brushed against our faces, and the next stop was slowly approaching along the channel. This water journey, combining speed and magnificent scenery, was a truly fulfilling experience.

Yinchuan Lanshan Park

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Anonymous userOctober 6, 2026
5.0
The scenery here exceeded my expectations; the environment was clean and comfortable, making for a particularly pleasant stroll. The facilities are excellent, the routes are well-defined, and the photos turn out beautifully – a great place to visit and take some time to explore.

Huangshagudu Tourism Scenic Spot

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What are the recommended tours and excursions in Yinchuan?

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Private 1-day tour in Yinchuan | World heritage site The Western Xia Mausoleum + Helan Mountain Rock Painting + Chateau Yuanshi tasting, Private 1-day tour in Yinchuan · Shahu ecological zone + China West Film Studio, and Private 1-day tour in Yinchuan · Shuidonggou ruins + Qingtongxia Yellow River grand canyon. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 24, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Yinchuan is around USD 91.07 – USD 255.31. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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