Things To Do
in Zhongwei
Zhongwei is a riverside city in Ningxia on the banks of the Yellow River, known for dramatic desert-meets-river landscapes and the famous Shapotou scenic area. The region blends Han and Hui Muslim cultures, visible in local architecture, markets, and halal cuisine. Zhongwei is also famous for nearby goji berry (wolfberry) production in Zhongning County and offers a quiet, less-touristed base for exploring the Helan Mountains and desert dunes.
Visitors come for sand activities, Yellow River scenery, and a slower pace of life compared with bigger Chinese cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the ancient streets of Zhongwei, absorbing the rich history that surrounds you. Stop by the Zhongwei Museum to learn about the local culture and the significance of the region. As you walk, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby noodle shop, savoring the unique flavors of the local cuisine.
Spend the afternoon visiting the impressive Nantan Temple, an architectural marvel that showcases the intricate details of ancient Chinese craftsmanship. After exploring the temple, take a break at a local tea house where you can sample various teas and engage in a peaceful tea ceremony. The afternoon sun will offer perfect lighting for photographs of the stunning landscapes surrounding the temple.
As dusk falls, head to the banks of the Yellow River to witness a breathtaking sunset reflecting off the water. Enjoy a dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can taste local specialties like goat meat with a side of roasted vegetables. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the river, watching the stars emerge in the clear sky above.
Start your adventure with a visit to the Shapotou Desert, where you can experience the vastness of the Gobi Desert. Enjoy a thrilling ride on a sandboard down the dunes, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you glide over the sandy landscape. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the desert and the Yellow River meeting at the horizon.
After a morning of excitement, take a camel ride through the dunes, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the desert. Visit the Shapotou Desert Research and Development Center to learn about the unique ecosystem and efforts to combat desertification in the region. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the dunes, surrounded by the serene landscapes.
As the sun sets over the desert, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Enjoy a traditional Mongolian BBQ dinner under the stars, with the warm desert breeze enhancing the experience. End your day by gathering around a campfire, sharing stories and enjoying traditional music in a mesmerizing desert ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥟Mid-range restaurant (two people) | $18-35 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within city) | $1-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (per night) | $20-45 |
| ☕Coffee / tea in cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique desert-and-river landscapes (Shapotou) not found in many other places
- Strong Hui cultural presence with delicious halal cuisine
- Lower tourist density — more authentic local experiences
- Nearby agricultural attractions (goji berry fields) and Helan Mountain access
- Limited English spoken — some language barrier for non-Chinese speakers
- Fewer high-end tourist amenities and nightlife compared with larger cities
- Dust, sandstorms and strong sun can be uncomfortable in certain seasons
- Public transport to some natural attractions may be infrequent
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？ (Duōshao qián?)" - How much is this?
- "请不要辣 (Qǐng bú yào là)" - Please not spicy
- "我不吃肉 (Wǒ bù chī ròu)" - I don't eat meat
- "厕所在哪里？ (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Zhongwei
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic dunes meeting the Yellow River; ideal for sunrise/sunset shots, sand patterns, and desert portraits.
Riverside views with fishermen, reedbeds and reflections — good for golden-hour photography and capturing rural riverside life.
In late summer and autumn the goji fields glow red — excellent for agricultural and seasonal color photography.
Architectural details, market scenes and cultural portraits — respectful approach required when photographing people and religious sites.
Rocky ridges, wildflowers in season and panoramic vistas for landscape photography a short drive from the city.
Food in Zhongwei
Zhongwei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted or stewed mutton seasoned with cumin and other spices — find it at halal restaurants and specialty grills across the city.
Must-Try!
Charcoal-grilled skewers at night markets and street stalls; a quintessential Ningxia snack best enjoyed with a cold drink.
Freshwater fish prepared steamed or braised at riverside restaurants when in season — milder, local river flavors.
Dried goji (wolfberries), goji cakes, and herbal teas available in markets and vendor stalls, especially from Zhongning County.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local night market near the city center offering grilled skewers, breads, pancakes, and quick snacks — a good place to sample lamb kebabs and local sweets.
Morning market selling fresh produce, goji berries in season, spices and halal ingredients — great for seeing local food life and buying snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting mosques or Hui neighborhoods, dress modestly, ask before photographing people and remove shoes if required at small prayer spaces.
Use polite phrases, present and receive items with both hands in formal contexts, and avoid loud, confrontational behavior in public.
Dress modestly in rural and religious areas — shorts and revealing clothing can draw attention and be considered disrespectful.
Safety
Tipping in Zhongwei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most everyday situations in China; small tips at upscale hotels or for exceptional private guides are appreciated but not expected.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate urban China, but cash (RMB) is still widely accepted in markets and rural vendors. International cards may work at larger hotels; carry cash for taxis and small stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming fields; occasional dust storms early in the season. Good time for comfortable hiking and visiting agricultural sites.
Hot and dry inland climate with strong sun; goji berry harvest (late summer) offers seasonal sights. Stay hydrated and use sun protection; evenings can be pleasant.
Often the best time to visit — cooler, clear skies and stable weather. Fall colors in mountain foothills and harvesting activity in fields.
Cold, dry winters with low temperatures and clear skies; occasional snow in higher elevations. Pack warm layers and be prepared for icy roads outside the city.
Zhongwei at Night
Hiking in Zhongwei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails of varying difficulty near the Helan range offering scenic ridgelines, geology, birdwatching and seasonal wildflowers; access requires a short drive from Zhongwei.
Short guided hikes across dune tops and slopes; best done with a guide for safety and to find the best viewpoints.
Gentle walking routes along the riverbanks for birdwatching, sunrise/sunset views and photography with minimal elevation change.
Airports
How to reach Zhongwei by plane.
Local airport serving Zhongwei with domestic flights; convenient for direct access to the city and tourist areas.
Regional hub in Yinchuan with more frequent domestic connections; about a few hours' drive from Zhongwei and useful as an alternative for flights to major Chinese cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the region, involved in agriculture, commerce and urban life.
A significant minority in Zhongwei and Ningxia overall, the Hui community influences local cuisine, religious life and cultural traditions.
Surrounding counties include farmers involved in orchards, goji berry cultivation and animal husbandry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is widely played recreationally in urban neighborhoods and at school courts.
Local interest in football with informal matches and school programs.
In rural and ethnic contexts, horse riding and traditional equestrian activities are culturally significant in Ningxia.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhongwei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with larger cities; order simple noodle or vegetable dishes and clarify ingredients (no lard). Markets sell fresh produce for self-prepared snacks.
Halal food is widely available due to a significant Hui population; look for restaurants with clear halal signage and ask if unsure.
Chinese and local cooks can usually adjust spice levels if you say '请不要辣' (Qǐng bú yào là — please don't make it spicy). Specify allergies clearly and carry translations if needed.