Peek into Ningxia: Explore the spectacular scenery in NW China

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Located in the west part of the Yellow River Bend, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region borders the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Shaanxi Province and Gansu Province.

The Yellow River, also known as "the mother river," has witnessed the great history of Ningxia. The second longest river in China, it flows through the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, and supplies four billion cubic meters of water annually for irrigation, agricultural activities and crop production.

The Yellow River also means richness and prosperity to Ningxia. Here is the first episode of the "Flying over Ningxia" series.

A view of Ningxia. /VCG Photo

Shapotou

Lying in the southeastern line of the Tengger Desert, about 20km away from Zhongwei City in Ningxia, Shapotou Scenic Area integrates sand and river scenery well. The fourth largest desert in China, the Tengger has attracted many tourists from home and abroad, who come to ride camels through the desert and explore the beautiful sunset from the desert and the long river.

The Tengger Desert. /VCG Photo

After the repair work, these years Shatoupo has become a golden signboard for Ningxia's tourism and expected to attract more travelers from overseas.

Yinchuan

Many people who first arrive in Yinchuan will be stunned by the beautiful lakes around the city. As an ancient frontier city, Yinchuan's history dates back to the Old Stone Age, about 30,000 years ago. Besides the Western Xia culture, many other cultures blend with each other, making Yinchuan a fascinating place for tourists.

While the Tengger Desert is atop the list, several cultural sites around Yinchuan City are also worth exploring.

Here one can admire the magnificent desert scenery, the mysterious culture and the Yellow River civilization.

Yinchuan enjoys the arid continental climate with four distinctive seasons. The best season to visit Yinchuan is early summer or autumn.

Yinchuan /VCG Photo

Shizuishan

The last city that Yellow River flows through is Shizuishan, an important industrial city located at the northernmost tip of Ningxia.

Famous for its abundant coal resources, the city was considered a "coal city." Nowadays it has become one of the most popular cities in Ningxia with many tourist attractions like Sand Lake and Mt. Helan.

The Sand Lake /VCG Photo