https://https://au.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/yanchi/best-things-to-do/10071446190900
Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do near Yanchi [2025]
Table of contents
Show All Photos
Shapotou Scenic Area
4.8
/5
28246 reviews
8.2
From PHP 480.77
Based on 153 reviews
Shapotou tourist attraction | >100 km from downtown
Phone +864001551766
Address: Shapotou, Zhongwei, Ningxia, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Highlights:
Yellow River heritage & modern entertainment
Experience the charm of the Huanghe by rafting on a sheepskin raft
Saved by 618 users21365 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Entering Shapotou Scenic Area from the Yellow River, you'll find attractions like speedboats, sheepskin rafts, and the Feihuangtengda zipline. The speedboat and sheepskin rafts are part of a package deal, allowing you to cross the Yellow River by speedboat to the entrance of Shashan. The Feihuangtengda zipline, a 100 yuan round-trip ride across the Yellow River, is well worth it! The sheepskin rafts are unique, each raft carrying four people. The boatman sings Northwest folk songs along the way, returning to the scenic area's main gate. It's truly delightful!
The trip to Shapotou was truly amazing! The cable car ride gave me a gentle ascent, offering breathtaking views. Then, the sandboarding experience was thrilling and exhilarating. The combination of the two made for a truly fantastic experience, highly recommended!
Show All Photos
China West Film Studio
4.5
/5
18161 reviews
7.8
From PHP 608.98
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
10336 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
Our tour guide, Xiao Zhao, was very skilled. The desert crossing was thrilling and exciting, something I haven't experienced in a while. The aerial video was also excellent and highly recommended.
We recommend renting a car for a group of three with a large weight, as it will provide excellent comfort. Weather is also crucial; sunny weather will produce much better photos.
This Northwest-style film and television studio boasts a rich local character, having been used as a filming location for hundreds of films. It's a great place for those who enjoy film sets and take photos. It's also not far from the Helan Mountain Rock Paintings Scenic Area, making it a great place to visit as well.
Show All Photos
The Western Xia Mausoleum
4.5
/5
6855 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
3812 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
Rock Art Route: Upon entering, visit the World Rock Art Museum to learn about the rock art.
Then, exit the museum from the third floor and take a sightseeing bus to the ruins area, which is the highlight. The route here loops approximately 800 to 900 meters, making it fun to walk around and discover the rock art.
Exiting the ruins area is the Han Meilin Art Museum. If you prefer not to visit, you can simply walk through and exit the area.
This area is quite interesting, but the rock art requires careful observation, and some require a keen eye.
I went with my parents to see the site in depth. We only visited the museum, Mausoleum No. 3, and the even-numbered mausoleums. We didn't see the movie. It took us four hours, and we were quite thorough.
First-entry ticket: This is the entrance ticket, which includes the museum and Mausoleum No. 3.
Sightseeing bus: 20 yuan per person, requiring an ID or other ID.
Other mausoleums: Additional fees apply.
Movie: 3D is about 20 minutes long; 4D is about 10 minutes long.
If you want a more detailed tour, you can choose a package ticket. If you just want a general overview, Mausoleum No. 3 and the museum are sufficient.
A few words of caution:
1) If you're busy and pressed for time, it's best to enter the mausoleum first, take the bus, and then return to visit the museum.
2) The museum has two floors, each with four sections, so even a quick tour will take over an hour.
No.
4
Show All Photos
Helan Mountain Rock Painting
4.5
/5
5016 reviews
7.4
From PHP 560.90
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
2503 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
The Helan Mountain Rock Art Landslide Relics is well worth a visit. It blends unique natural landscapes with rich cultural heritage, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Here are some of its highlights:
- Mysterious Rock Art: Numerous ancient rock paintings remain on the rocks of the Landslide Relics, showcasing a rich variety of subject matter. These include human-faced figures with diverse expressions, such as the "Sun God" rock painting, a treasure of the scenic area. Its double-ringed eyes and radiating lines reflect ancient human worship of the sun. Lifelike animal images, such as ibex and deer, as well as rock paintings depicting scenes of hunting and sacrificial rituals, vividly illustrate the ecological environment and human production and lifestyle of the time.
- Unique Geological Landscape: The Landslide Relics are the result of crustal movement and weathering tens of thousands of years ago. The massive rock collapse and stacking have created a staggered formation, showcasing the wonders of nature. The interweaving of the fractured rocks and rock paintings creates a landscape that blends nature and human experience rarely seen elsewhere. - Rich Cultural Heritage: The Helan Mountains were a key area for the ancient activities of northern ethnic minorities. The rock paintings incorporate cultural elements from diverse ethnic groups, including the Xiongnu, Xianbei, Qiang, and Dangxiang. They reflect the lifestyles, social structures, religious beliefs, and aesthetic values of ancient humans, making them a valuable repository for studying the history and culture of ancient nomadic peoples.
- Rich Visitor Experience: In addition to the landslide remains and rock painting sites, the scenic area also boasts a Rock Painting Museum and the Han Meilin Art Museum. The Rock Painting Museum houses exquisite rock paintings from over 200 sites in more than 60 countries across five continents, allowing visitors to explore global rock art culture. The Han Meilin Art Museum showcases Han Meilin's artworks inspired by the Helan Mountains rock paintings, presenting a fusion of ancient and modern art.
As a scenic attraction within the Helan Mountain Scenic Area, the rock paintings are well worth a visit. After all, having traversed thousands of years, they offer insights into the lifestyles, religious beliefs, values, and primitive art of the people who once inhabited this region. While admiring the rock paintings, visitors can connect with nature, play, and relive the lives of ancient nomadic peoples. This is especially recommended for family trips!
No.
5
Show All Photos
The Wave Valley Scenic Area
4.6
/5
1527 reviews
7.4
From PHP 713.15
>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 375 users1174 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
I'm glad my notes are helpful. Below is my honest review of the Shaanxi Wave Valley Scenic Area, which I hope will provide further reference.
Shaanxi Wave Valley Scenic Area Review
Scenic Highlights:
Wave Valley is renowned for its unique geological formations. Long-term weathering and water erosion have created undulating rock formations resembling ocean waves, creating a spectacular and dynamic landscape. The rich, layered colors of the rocks are breathtaking, especially when illuminated by sunlight.
Suitable for:
From nature-loving photographers to families seeking relaxation, there's a spot here to delight everyone. The hiking trails are relatively gentle, making them suitable for most travelers, especially those with children or the elderly.
Experience:
In addition to admiring the unique rock formations, the scenic area also features unique leisure facilities, such as observation decks, walking trails, and small exhibition areas. It's recommended to plan your route in advance to fully experience every corner of the area.
Transportation and Facilities:
The scenic area is easily accessible, making it easy to drive or take a tour bus from the city center. The scenic area has fairly complete infrastructure, including restrooms, rest areas, and some simple dining options. However, it's recommended to bring some drinking water and snacks.
Notes:
The terrain is complex, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Summer and autumn are the best times to visit; avoid peak season to better enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Please maintain cleanliness, avoid littering, and contribute to the preservation of this beautiful natural landscape.
Summary:
Shaanxi Wave Valley, with its unique geological landscape and beautiful natural environment, is a worthwhile tourist destination. Whether you're taking photos, strolling, or simply relaxing, you'll find plenty of enjoyment here. I hope my review will help you better plan your trip, and I look forward to seeing you!
It's so beautiful. You could spend a whole day exploring this attraction. It's even more beautiful when the sun comes out after a light rain. The road leading to the parking lot is currently under repair, so there's only a narrow dirt road, and they even charge a parking fee.
No.
6
Show All Photos
Shuidonggou Tourist Attraction
4.6
/5
7594 reviews
7.3
From PHP 480.77
96.4 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
4721 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
This scenic spot is rich in history, and you can see that the Great Wall's defenses are more than just a wall.
The Mongolian cavalry performance was spectacular, and well worth seeing for children who haven't experienced horseback riding.
The various shuttle buses were also very interesting.
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.
No.
7
Show All Photos
Ordos Prairie Tourism Region
4.5
/5
921 reviews
7.3
From PHP 1346.16
Based on 6 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +86047715547726767
Address: 9 km southwest of Xini Town, Hangjin Banner, Ordos
Recommended sightseeing time: 3-4 hours
Saved by 100 users570 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The grasslands are so beautiful, I didn't want to leave once I arrived. The attractions are so plentiful! The performances were also wonderful. The "Hero" show was especially impressive, and the equestrian performances were amazing. The actors were very dedicated! I highly recommend coming back! The "Wedding" show was very festive and I loved it!
Very beautiful grassland, many projects are well organized, the children had a lot of fun, equestrian performances, flying grassland, the actors are dedicated and have superb acting skills, very exciting, the accommodation in the grassland is clean, the yurt is large and well-equipped, and the service attitude is also very good
No.
8
Show All Photos
The Mausoleum of Yellow Emperor
4.5
/5
3826 reviews
7.1
From PHP 1538.47
Based on 20 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609115218338
Address: North Bridge Mountain, Huangling County, Yan'an City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
National ceremony during Qingming Festival
Yellow Emperor's sacred mausoleum
2345 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
Ticketing is very convenient through Ctrip. Atop Qiaoshan Mountain in Huangling, Shaanxi Province, the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor stands quietly. It is the burial place of Emperor Huangdi, the "first ancestor of Chinese civilization," and a spiritual root in the hearts of hundreds of millions of Chinese people. Here, towering ancient cypresses and curling incense smoke fill the air. Every inch of the land is steeped in rich history, and every breeze carries reverence for our ancestors. Upon entering the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor scenic area, the first thing that strikes your eye is the vast expanse of ancient cypress trees, the most famous of which is the "Huangdi Hand-Planted Cypress." Over 5,000 years old, this ancient cypress boasts a robust, upright trunk and lush branches, like a silent guardian of this sacred site. The crisscrossing lines of its bark seem to engrave the vicissitudes of China over 5,000 years. Touching it, you can clearly feel the rich texture left by time. Strolling through the cypress trees, sunlight filters through the branches, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The air is filled with the delicate fragrance of cypress, creating a tranquil and solemn atmosphere that invites one to slow down and feel a sense of awe. Walking along the stone path, one arrives at the Xuanyuan Temple. The temple entrance is simple and solemn. The vermilion gate is inlaid with copper nails, and the three golden characters "Xuanyuan Temple" gleam above the lintel, exuding a majestic aura. Entering the temple, one finds a spacious courtyard and a staggered arrangement of ancient buildings. The blue bricks and gray tiles exude a rich Chinese charm. The Hall of the First Ancestor of Humanity is the core building of the Xuanyuan Temple. Inside, a massive statue of Emperor Huangdi is enshrined. Dressed in black robes, his gaze is penetrating, as if gazing upon the rise and fall of the Chinese nation. The walls of the hall are painted with murals recording the achievements of Huangdi, from unifying the tribes to inventing boats, carriages, writing, and music. Each mural vividly reproduces the great journey of Huangdi in creating Chinese civilization, allowing people to deeply feel the wisdom and strength of their ancestors while paying homage.
The ancestor of the Chinese nation, the legendary leader of the ancient Huaxia people and the first of the Five Emperors. During the Yellow Emperor's time, sericulture, chariots, writing, music, medicine, and arithmetic were invented and developed. His contributions were praised by later generations, and he is hailed as the "first ancestor of Chinese civilization." Shaanxi is the nation's roots, Yan'an is the nation's soul, and the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor is the spiritual symbol of Chinese civilization.
The ancient cypresses on Qiaoshan Mountain are a treasure. Elders say they were planted by the Yellow Emperor himself. These 5,000-year-old stumps firmly support the soul of the Chinese people. Let's go to Huangling County and see the dew-drenched cypress branches tell old stories. When Sima Qian wrote "Records of the Grand Historian," he specifically sought inspiration here to clearly trace the Yellow Emperor's roots.
During the Qingming Festival, crowds of people flock to the mountains to pay homage to their ancestors, from overseas Chinese in suits to locals in turbans. Around the 1980s, a Mr. Zhang, who had just returned from the United States, wept bitterly as he held up a handwritten memorial. The woman selling incense and candles at a nearby stall also wept. This story resonates with a deep sense of kinship; no matter how far we travel, our blood flows like a common river.
Emperors of every dynasty relished this place. Emperor Wu of Han led an army of 180,000 to lay down his arms; Emperor Taizong of Tang commissioned the restoration of temples and the planting of trees; even the Yuan Dynasty, founded by the Mongols, issued a special decree to protect the mausoleum. We Chinese people believe in "fallen leaves returning to their roots." Those inscribed stone tablets and faded incense burners bear witness to five thousand years of history.
The Yellow Emperor's Mausoleum now enjoys special state care, and the Qingming Festival public memorial service is even more lively than the Lunar New Year. Last year, even Taiwanese compatriots came in groups to recognize their ancestors, wearing clothes emblazoned with the words "Homesick," which was truly heartbreaking. There's nothing wrong with this; after all, we are all descendants of Yan and Huang, and even if our bones are broken, we are still connected.
No.
9
Show All Photos
Ganquan Canyon
4.7
/5
2169 reviews
7.1
From PHP 1346.16
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609114562018
Address: Zhangjiagou, Xiasiwan Town, Ganquan County, Yan'an City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
Antelope Canyon & Birch Valley
Antelope Valley & wild peonies
Saved by 394 users1986 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Ganquan Canyon is a fissure-type Danxia landform. Its core feature is a red sandstone Danxia landform, formed during the Cretaceous period, between 130 million and 90 million years ago.
The canyon is best viewed between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. When sunlight shines directly on the valley floor, the red sandstone walls reflect 12 gradations of red, orange, yellow, and purple.
Ganquan Grand Canyon offers its own unique beauty in each season: wildflowers bloom in the spring, temporary waterfalls form after heavy rains in summer, crimson leaves and red rocks create a striking contrast in autumn, and snow-covered winter creates a fairytale-like scene.
Very satisfied. The Grand Canyon is worth visiting. I really love it. Go on a sunny day. I hope the park opens more canyons. We only had three open that day. The scenery was so captivating! Keep going, Mom.
No.
10
Show All Photos
Ning Xia Helan Mountain National Forest Park
4.5
/5
2048 reviews
7.1
From PHP 240.39
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
1566 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
Visit date: September 18th. Arrived at the scenic area at 10:00 AM and descended to the visitor center at 2:00 PM.
Route: First, take the sightseeing bus from the entrance to Songtao Mountain Villa, then buy tickets and take the cable car up to Qingsongling. From Qingsongling, walk to the canyon cable bridge.
We arrived just in time for the 12:00 PM canyon tightrope acrobatics show. After the show, we returned to Qingsongling and began our descent, following the sign for "Cherry Valley."
Note: The descent was sparsely populated due to the steep incline and gravel sections. Therefore, I saw very few people descending. Since I was traveling with my parents, who are in their 60s, I took extra care, so the descent took a bit longer. However, with fewer people, the canyon was quite quiet.
Tickets for the scenic area:
1) Entrance fee: Free for seniors over 60, so my parents were free.
2) Sightseeing bus: 20 RMB per person. Note: This ticket, like the entrance fee, must be purchased at the visitor center, not inside the scenic area.
3) Cable car and canyon cable bridge tickets can be purchased inside the scenic area.
Because I was traveling with an elderly person, I bought a package ticket for myself, which included an entrance ticket, a round-trip sightseeing bus, and a canyon cable bridge. The price was 110 yuan, which was quite reasonable. I bought the tickets needed by the elderly separately.
The scenery of the northwest is still refreshing for southerners. It is a mountain range connected to the mountain. There are stone mountains that are balder than limestone mountains, but on the other side are pine and cypress trees. There are also unique flora and fauna and fault landforms. Unfortunately, the Golden Summit and Rabbit Hole are not open to the public, so the playability is relatively low.
1
2
3
4
5
