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Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do near Hanggin Banner [2025]
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Whistling Dune Bay
4.3
/5
4603 reviews
8.3
From AU$ 25.68
Based on 81 reviews
Xiangshawan | >100 km from downtown
Phone +864008785550
Address: Dalad, Ordos, Inner Mongolia, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Highlights:
Breathtaking desert views & panorama
Camel rides in the desert
Saved by 283 users2930 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Xiangshawan is the desert I most want to visit when I go to Inner Mongolia. Because I need to bring children, there are food for sale there, which is a bit commercialized. But it’s my first time in the desert, and I still feel good.
A good trip. The tour guide Xiaolong was very considerate to remind us of the weather forecast the day before yesterday, so we added clothes in time to prevent the risk of catching a cold. The tour items were explained in detail and attentively. 5-star praise
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Dazhao Temple
4.7
/5
7465 reviews
8.3
From AU$ 7.49
Based on 138 reviews
Dazhao Temple / Saishang old street | >100 km from downtown
Phone +8604716303154
Address: Dazhao Street, Yuquan District, Hohhot City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
10-yard golden dragon & mural
Grand blessing ceremony on Lantern Festival
Saved by 302 users4748 positive reviews
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Hohhot Jokhang Wuliang Temple, it is very convenient to buy tickets on Ctrip. You can exchange the paper ticket at the door and enter directly. If you have a wheelchair, the staff will guide you to enter through the barrier-free passage next to it. The service is very considerate. The temple is magnificent and feels particularly solemn and beautiful.
It's a cultural site. No photos are allowed inside. Please obey the rules. It's not big. I went there in the afternoon and it took about an hour. The Buddha worship will take longer.
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China West Film Studio
4.5
/5
18077 reviews
7.8
From AU$ 16.27
Based on 86 reviews
Manpu·Seeing Helan Performing Arts Town/Zhenbeipu Western Movie City Resort | >100 km from downtown
Phone +8609512136088
Address: East of 110 National Road, zhenbeibao, Xixia District, Yinchuan City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Highlights:
Role-play & film a micro-movie
Dress up & be a star
10381 positive reviews10K views in last month
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The film and television city is huge, and I didn't finish it after three hours due to time constraints, which is a bit regrettable. Special praise goes to our tour guide, Xiao Zhang, number 20, for his enthusiastic service, detailed explanations, and excellent professional skills. Thumbs up 👍.
Mr. Zhang Xianliang's labor camp was also his own creation. It's been a filming location for movies and TV series like Red Sorghum, The Herdsman, A Chinese Odyssey, and Flesh and Soul. It's filled with female tourists dressed as Zixia fairies, swords in hand. The former residence and library of Mr. Zhang Xianliang offer a poignant look at his life, both difficult and glorious. The 80 yuan entrance fee is a bit pricey. It's practically a memorial to Mr. Zhang.
No.
4
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The Western Xia Mausoleum
4.5
/5
6766 reviews
7.6
From %1$s
Based on 127 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609515668966
Address: Helan Mountain, Xixia District, Yinchuan City
Recommended sightseeing time: 4-6 hours
Highlights:
Explore Xixia Royal Tombs
Over 200 towering earthen mounds
3739 positive reviews10K views in last month
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The Western Xia Tombs recently achieved World Heritage status, and their reputation is growing. As a showcase for Western Xia history, it's well worth a visit. Admission is free on Mondays and Wednesdays, which is quite friendly. I recommend just visiting Tomb No. 3; the others are similar.
Before coming here, I read in travel guides that it would take about two hours to see the entire Western Xia Tombs. However, when I finally arrived, I discovered that the two hours mentioned online might only be enough for a quick visit to the museum and Tomb No. 3. Since I was already there, I decided to experience an in-depth tour, so I bought a package that included Tomb Nos. 3, 2, and 4, as well as the museum. After purchasing the tickets, we first went to the museum to learn about the history and culture of the Western Xia Kingdom, including the owners of these tombs, their feng shui locations, and the unearthed artifacts. After leaving, it started to rain, so we took a minibus to Tomb No. 3, a must-see for everyone. It's the largest of the mausoleums and the one with the most intact exterior. After Tomb No. 3, some people returned, so we continued our in-depth tour to the twin Tomb Nos. 2, and then we entered the most immersive part. In mid-June, Yinchuan would have been very sunny if it had been sunny, but it happened to be raining now, so we didn't have to worry about getting wet, and the cloudy weather was just the right amount of sunshine. We took an electric car to the No.2 Mausoleum, which was very fast and exciting. We could see the Helan Mountains from afar along the way, and the wind made our hair fly. It felt like we were running wildly in the wilderness. There were only six of us in the car. After getting off the car, we visited the two mausoleums. The open area was just like a private tour. After visiting the two mausoleums, we took another car and took a horse-drawn carriage to the transfer point to go to the No.4 Mausoleum. Of course, the carriage was actually an electric car, with the horse harnessed in front. The No.4 Mausoleum was closest to the Helan Mountains, almost reaching the front of the mountain. After the visit, the carriage returned to the transfer point, and finally we took a minibus back to the starting point to end the tour.
No.
5
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Qian Gu Ma Song
4.4
/5
280 reviews
7.5
From AU$ 58.63
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8604712539951
Address: Inner Mongolia Minority Culture and Sports Center Liangmaquan, south of Yematu Village, Baohe Shao Town, Xincheng District, Hohhot
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Cultural equestrian acrobatics gala performance
Immersive high-tech audiovisual experience
239 positive reviews10K views in last month
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The show lasted 70 minutes, featuring equestrianism, acrobatics, singing and dancing. Afterward, the horses' breeds and characteristics were explained. Afterward, you could feed and ride the horses for a fee. There was a slight odor inside the venue, so if you're sensitive, you can wear a mask. Those who aren't allergic will quickly get used to it. The shuttle driver was also very friendly.
It was a very shocking performance, loved by both adults and children. It allowed us to understand Mongolian culture and the importance of horses to the Mongolians. The actors all had unique skills and the horses were very cooperative, especially the many young actors, whose horsemanship was amazing and very impressive.
No.
6
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Helan Mountain Rock Painting
4.5
/5
4970 reviews
7.4
From AU$ 14.98
Based on 55 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609513948808
Address: Helan County, Yinchuan City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
360° view & rock art
Helan Mountain forest & rock art
2479 positive reviews10K views in last month
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The Helan Mountain Rock Art Scenic Area is relatively small and is divided into three main attractions: the Rock Art Museum, the Rock Art Ruins, and the Han Meilin Art Museum. In the Rock Art Ruins, you can see rock paintings of varying meanings and sizes, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a blue sheep. The Han Meilin Art Museum is a pleasant and well-located place.
This is a controversial attraction, with mixed reviews. Many people complain about the intense heat and the near-misses of the Sun God. But once I visited, I realized it was worth the trip. The intense heat is manageable, and the rock paintings are easily discovered with careful guidance. The electric carts are available, and while the distance isn't far, they can ease the fatigue of the trip. I personally think it's generally friendly to seniors and interesting for younger visitors.
No.
7
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The Wave Valley Scenic Area
4.6
/5
1509 reviews
7.4
From AU$ 118.97
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609124830101
Address: Longzhou Township, Jingbian County, Yulin City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Highlights:
Wave-like red sandstone canyon
340-meter 3D bridge spans Wave Valley
Saved by 372 users1160 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Wave Valley is the most impressive scenic spot in Yulin. It takes 4 hours to walk and rest. The scenery is good, but I can't take pictures of it. Yixiantian is good, but it is far behind Ganquan Grand Canyon.
Yulin Wave Valley, a Danxia landform natural landscape located in Longzhou Town, Jingbian, Shaanxi Province, was formed 96 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. Formed by vast sand dunes eroded and carved by water and wind over countless centuries, the resulting landscape is known as the "Chinese version of Antelope Valley" and the "Earth's Rings."
Wave Valley is approximately 160 kilometers from Yulin city, a two-hour drive. We chose a nearby B&B (Jingbian Rancheng Hotel), which leads to the Wave Valley ticket office just over a small hill. Full-price tickets cost 90 yuan per person. Upon entering the main gate, there's a glass bridge (50 yuan per person for a separate fee). If you prefer to avoid walking, this bridge leads directly to the Flame Danxia formation, which otherwise requires a long descent and a long climb. The wooden staircases are well-maintained, but the slope is steep in some areas, making the hike quite tiring. The scenic area is divided into three main sections: Flame Danxia, Chibi Danxia, and Earth's Core Danxia. While each has its own distinct characteristics, I feel they form a cohesive whole, a masterpiece of nature's uncanny craftsmanship. Layers of sandstone, sculpted by wind and water, create wonders and works of art resembling flowing water, clouds, and waves. The interplay of light and shadow, shimmering brightness and darkness, makes the colors even more vibrant and dazzling. Wandering through the area, the path twists and turns, offering new surprises with every step. Sometimes narrow enough for only one person (a narrow gap in the sky), flanked by towering rock faces, it feels like entering a mysterious time tunnel. Other times, the path opens up, revealing a vast expanse with breathtaking views, completely relieving the pain of the climb and leaving you wanting to exclaim, "This is stunning!" The area is overflowing with photo spots, and any shot is a true masterpiece. It's a truly worthwhile natural wonder, a place you'll never want to leave and never forget.
A few more notes:
1. Protect the environment: This is an extremely precious and fragile geological relic. Please do not step on or scratch the rocks! Stay on the designated plank paths and be a civilized traveler.
2. Weather and Equipment:
• We went in late August, and the temperature was pleasant, with occasional breezes, which was quite comfortable. However, sunny weather can be very hot, so sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) is crucial. My husband never gets any plastic surgery, and the next day his entire face and neck were red 🤭.
• Be sure to wear comfortable running shoes. Although the entire trail is about 6 kilometers, the Wave Valley is actually quite large, combining water, canyons, and highlands. You'll have to go down to the valley floor and then climb to the top. I personally think the distance was probably more than double (we skipped some spots because we couldn't walk anymore). The entire trail took 6 hours. 3. Suitable crowd: I personally think that the elderly (over 65 years old), people with poor legs and feet, and those with heart problems should consider it carefully. Although there are rest areas in the scenic area, going up and down the stairs in the canyon is not as easy as you think.
No.
8
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Xilitu Zhao Temple
4.7
/5
686 reviews
7.1
From AU$ 5.25
Based on 21 reviews
Dazhao Temple / Saishang old street | >100 km from downtown
Phone +8615949417672
Address: North end of Stone Alley, Yuquan District, Hohhot City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Aegion
Recommended sightseeing time: 1 hour
Highlights:
Ancient architecture & nature views
Vast grounds & grand gate
434 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
Xilitu Temple in Hohhot is a quiet place for Tibetan Buddhism. It has a Tibetan pagoda with unique features and is worth recommending. It is not as crowded as the Wuliang Temple in Dazhao, but the service staff are attentive.
It was around 4 p.m. on a Saturday, so not many people were there. The temple was built during the Ming Dynasty, and Emperor Kangxi personally visited. The Buddha statues were all rebuilt after being destroyed, which is quite unique. It would be best to ask for an interpreter to learn more about the attractions.
No.
9
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Shuidonggou Tourist Attraction
4.5
/5
7152 reviews
7.1
From AU$ 12.84
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609515055816
Address: Shuidonggou Scenic Area, Linhe Town, Lingwu City, Yinchuan City (19 km from Yinchuan City and 11 km from Yinchuan Hedong Airport)
Recommended sightseeing time: 3-4 hours
4290 positive reviews10K views in last month
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It's still fun to go there even if it's not peak season. All kinds of facilities are good. It's worth a visit if you like the northwest environment. All kinds of services have been restored, but the lake has become a small river, which is a different atmosphere.
The service of the scenic area staff is very good. In the scenic area, you can learn about the culture of the Shuidonggou people 40,000 years ago, as well as the culture of the Tibetan Bingdong Great Wall 500 years ago. The history and culture are profound. I like it very much.
No.
10
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Ning Xia Helan Mountain National Forest Park
4.5
/5
2021 reviews
7.1
From AU$ 6.42
Based on 12 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609512079103
Address: Xixia District,Yinchuan City,Ningxia Zhuang Autonomous Region
Recommended sightseeing time: 3-4 hours
Highlights:
Cable car: Helan night & sunrise
Hike trails & explore rock art
1546 positive reviews10K views in last month
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A unique national forest park, the desolate northwestern landscape punctuated by greenery, instantly captivated me with awe at the vast Helan Mountains. I remembered the phrase, "Breaking through the Helan Mountain Gap!" The sun was shining brightly during our visit, but a light drizzle started halfway down to Cherry Valley, and a heavy downpour arrived just as we emerged from the valley! Fortunately, fortunately, fortunately.
On the way there, I took a taxi from Xinhualian for around 50 yuan. On the way back, I took a direct bus, which, while it's called a direct bus, actually detoured to the Helan Mountain rock paintings to pick up people. After purchasing my ticket, I discovered there were also buses that offered tours of 3 or 4, so you can choose whichever you prefer.
Helan Mountain Forest Park is definitely worth a visit.
First, I want to give a thumbs-up to the staff's friendly service. They patiently answered all my questions. My youngest son, just 7, entered the park for free and then rode the cable car for free. My daughter, a middle school student, bought a student ticket, and the adult price was also very reasonable. There were no hidden fees. A trip to Yinchuan was truly economical and enjoyable. The people of Ningxia truly are so honest.
Let's talk about the park's scenery. As we entered the scenic area on the sightseeing bus, we were lucky enough to spot a few blue sheep running across the rocks. The kids were thrilled. We then took the cable car up the mountain, enjoying a breathtaking aerial view of the Helan Mountains. The tightrope walking performance at the top was truly spectacular, and the kids had the opportunity to take a photo with the tightrope walker. The view of the Helan Mountains from the cable bridge is magnificent, both near and far. I highly recommend it. We chose to descend through Cherry Valley. The path was lined with boulders and shaded by trees, making it a fun and sun-proof hike. Recommended for those with a good stamina. The children enjoyed both physical exercise and educational enrichment while observing the rocks and plants.
Finally, regarding the prices, the entrance fee was very reasonable, as was the cable car fare. The prices for items sold in the park were also reasonable and acceptable. Even if you didn't buy anything, the staff patiently answered any questions you had. The staff were neither pushy nor aggressive when getting on and off the cable car, which I found truly amazing!
All in all, this trip to Helan Mountain Forest Park was well worth it! The children said they'll come back next summer! Kudos to Yinchuan!
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