Things To Do
in Xining
Xining is the capital of Qinghai Province in western China, perched on the Huangshui River at the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The city blends Han, Hui, and Tibetan influences, visible in its mosques, monasteries, markets, and diverse street food. Its high altitude and clear air make it a gateway to alpine scenery and nomadic culture, while the compact downtown is easy to explore on foot.
A practical base for visiting Qinghai’s lakes, grasslands, and sacred sites, Xining offers affordable travel with a distinctly regional flavor.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Dongguan Mosque, one of the largest and most important mosques in China. Marvel at its stunning architecture and serene ambiance, while learning about the rich Islamic culture in Xining. After your visit, wander through the nearby old streets, filled with local vendors and unique shops.
For lunch, savor some traditional Hui cuisine at a local restaurant, with dishes like lamb skewers and hand-pulled noodles. Spend the afternoon exploring the Tibetan Medicine Museum, where you can gain insight into the ancient practices of Tibetan healing and herbal remedies. Later, stroll through the bustling markets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps picking up some local handicrafts.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the Huangshui River, watching the local residents engage in evening activities. Find a cozy café or teahouse where you can relax with a cup of Tibetan butter tea while enjoying the views. Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant, sampling more of the regional specialties.
Begin your morning with a trip to Kumbum Monastery, a famous Tibetan Buddhist site located just outside Xining. Spend time wandering the temple grounds, observing the monks at prayer and admiring the intricate murals and statues. Don't forget to take in the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds this spiritual haven.
After a fulfilling morning, enjoy lunch at a nearby Tibetan restaurant, trying dishes like momos and thukpa. In the afternoon, participate in a guided tour of the monastery, where you will learn about its history and significance in Tibetan Buddhism. Spend some time in the courtyard, where you can witness traditional religious rituals and ceremonies.
Return to Xining and relax at a local hotpot restaurant, where you can cook your own meal at the table. As you enjoy your dinner, engage with locals and learn more about their daily lives and customs. Afterward, take a stroll through the night markets, where the smells of street food will tantalize your taste buds.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚇One-way local transport | $0.75-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-60 |
| 🍽️Restaurant meal for two (mid-range) | $15-30 |
| 🚖Taxi starting fare | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Qinghai's landscapes and Tibetan culture
- Affordable travel with good food
- Compact city center that’s easy to explore on foot
- High altitude can cause mild altitude sickness
- Limited English in some areas
- Seasonal crowds around popular sites
- Weather can be very cold in winter
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "多少钱？" - How much is it?
- "厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "我吃素" - I am vegetarian
- "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
- "可以便宜一点吗？" - Could you lower the price?
Places to Visit in Xining
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive Tibetan Buddhist architecture, golden roofs, and colorful murals that glow at sunrise and sunset.
Intricate wooden architecture, prayer spaces, and lively lanes offer excellent candid and street photography.
A vantage point with views of the city and river, especially during golden hour.
Calm river reflections and city skyline; best at blue hour.
Food in Xining
Xining Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Street stalls and night markets in the Hui Quarter offer fragrant, spiced lamb skewers grilled over charcoal.
Must-Try!
A staple for Tibetan-influenced eateries and tea houses; try tsampa (roasted barley flour) with butter tea.
A comforting noodle soup featuring tender lamb and herbs, commonly found in casual diners.
Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, available at Tibetan restaurants and market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant lanes where you can taste lamb skewers, grilled vegetables, fried dough twists, and dairy tea.
Commercial market with fresh produce, spice stalls, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting mosques and monasteries; remove hats and shoes where required; ask for permission before photography.
Use polite language and accept tea or snacks with both hands; avoid loud behavior in public.
Safety
Tipping in Xining
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Chinese restaurants; in tourist-focused venues, small tips for exceptional service may be appreciated but are not required. Bank cards are widely accepted in larger establishments; cash is still convenient for small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with cool mornings; occasional windy spells and dust storms; dress in layers.
Warm but comfortable daytime highs with cool evenings; strong sun at altitude; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; temperatures drop in the evening; ideal for photography and outdoor strolls.
Cold, dry, and windy; possible snow; layering is essential; indoor attractions are popular.
Xining at Night
Hiking in Xining
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes offering alpine scenery, wildflowers, and panoramic views.
Moderate trails along the river with parkland and scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Xining by plane.
Located roughly 40 km south of Xining, with domestic and limited international connections; connected to the city by bus and taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Xining, with diverse languages and customs.
Muslim community with distinctive food, mosques, and cultural practices.
Influences visible in monasteries, markets, and cultural events.
Includes Mongol and Salar communities present in Qinghai.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local leagues and pickup games are common; sports fields are scattered around the city.
Popular in schools and communities; public courts are widely available.
Archery and horseback riding are demonstrated in rural areas and cultural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xining.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most restaurants; ask for 素菜 or say 我吃素. Avoid meat-based broths; opt for mushroom, tofu, and vegetable dishes, and confirm stock and sauces.