Shizuishan (石嘴山) is a city in Ningxia Autonomous Region.

Understand

Shizuishan is the most important industry city of Ningxia. The city is near Helan Mountain. In the mountain several big coal mines are found. After that many coal and power factories were built in the previous 40 years.

History

Shizuishan, located in the northern part of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, is a city with a long history and unique culture. Named after the Shizuishan Peak at the foot of the Helan Mountains, the area has been inhabited since the Xia and Shang dynasties, making it an important settlement in the Yellow River Basin. During the Tang Dynasty and beyond, it served as a key point of exchange between the Central Plains and northern nomadic tribes along the northern route of the Silk Road. In the 20th century, Shizuishan rose to prominence due to coal mining and became known as the “Coal City,” playing a vital role in Ningxia’s industrial development. Today, the city is transitioning towards sustainable growth, blending its historical legacy with modern economic advancements to showcase its unique charm.

Climate

Shizuishan has a temperate continental climate with distinct seasons, characterized by dry weather and abundant sunshine. Winters are long and cold, with average temperatures around -10°C, often accompanied by strong winds. Summers are relatively short and mild, with an average temperature of about 24°C. Spring and autumn are brief transitional seasons; spring is often windy with occasional sandstorms, while autumn is cool and pleasant. The region receives limited rainfall, primarily concentrated in the summer months, but overall remains arid with high evaporation rates. This climate supports the growth of drought-resistant crops and contributes to the formation of unique desert and wetland landscapes.

Shizuishan
Climate chart (explanation)
J F M A M J J A S O N D       1     −10 −8       1     −6 −3       4     2 4       10     11 14       20     17 20       50     22 24       40     24 26       20     22 25       10     16 22       10     8 10       3     0 3       1     −8 −5 Average max. and min. temperatures in °C Precipitation+Snow totals in mm
Imperial conversion J F M A M J J A S O N D       0     14 18       0     21 27       0.2     36 39       0.4     52 57       0.8     63 68       2     72 75       1.6     75 79       0.8     72 77       0.4     61 72       0.4     46 50       0.1     32 37       0     19 23 Average max. and min. temperatures in °F Precipitation+Snow totals in inches

Get in

Shizuishan’s convenient connections make it easily accessible while allowing travelers to enjoy its unique mix of desert and wetland landscapes.

By plane

Shizuishan does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is Yinchuan Hedong International Airport, approximately 120 km away. From the airport, a direct taxi ride to Shizuishan takes 1.5–2 hours. You can take an airport shuttle or public bus to Yinchuan and transfer to a long-distance bus to Shizuishan.

By train

Shizuishan has a well-connected railway station:

• 1 Shizuishan Railway Station (石嘴山火车站). (updated Dec 2024): It is served by trains from major cities such as Beijing, Xi’an, and Lanzhou. High-speed train service is available from Yinchuan to Shizuishan, taking approximately 40 minutes.

By bus

• From Yinchuan: Frequent buses run from Yinchuan to Shizuishan, taking about 2 hours. • From other cities: Long-distance buses from cities like Baotou, Lanzhou, and Wuhai also serve Shizuishan.

By car

• From Yinchuan: Drive along the G6 Beijing-Tibet Expressway, taking about 1.5 hours. • From other cities: Shizuishan is accessible via several major highways, making it convenient for self-driving travelers.

Get around

The transportation options within Shizuishan are diverse and suitable for both residents and visitors. Here are some common ways to get around the city

Taxis are widely available in Shizuishan, and you can easily hail one in the city center. Taxi fares are reasonable, making them a good choice for short trips. The starting fare is around ¥10, with prices depending on the distance traveled.

The public bus system covers major commercial areas, residential neighborhoods, and attractions. Public buses are a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike. The bus fare is os typically around ¥2, depending on the route.

Bicycle and electric bike rentals are practical because of the city’s development of cycling lanes and green spaces. Shared bicycles or electric bikes can be rented via mobile apps in certain areas of the city.

Self-driving is convenient in Shizuishan, especially for tourists traveling between the city and nearby attractions. The road conditions are good, and traffic is relatively smooth. There are several parking lots available in the city for easy parking.

Shizuishan’s city size is moderate, and many of the attractions in the city can be reached on foot. Walking is a pleasant and easy way to explore, especially in good weather.

See

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  1 Shahu Lake (沙湖, Shāhú). Consists of desert (an island of sand) and surrounding lake, islands, and marshlands. The reed marshes around the lake are habitats for more than 1 million birds in 190 or so kinds, including swans and red-crested cranes. On the island there are many attractions like camel riding, sand skiing, a chairlift up a sand dune, hot air balloon rides, jet skis, a salamander petting zoo, museums, a room that simulates rain, etc, some of which are free and some of which cost from ¥30 up to ¥150 or more. The overbuilt parts are readily escaped. ¥120 for entry plus the large, slow boat to access the main sand island, but there are a bewildering array of other ticket options available. (updated Dec 2024)

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  2 Helan Mountain Rock Paintings (贺兰山岩画), Helan Mountain Range. The Helan Mountain Rock Paintings are one of China’s most significant ancient rock art sites, located in the Helan Mountain range. These paintings reflect ancient grassland culture and religious beliefs, attracting many tourists and archaeologists. (updated Dec 2024)
• 3 Shizuishan Museum (石嘴山博物馆), 32 Wenchang Road, Dawukou District. The Shizuishan Museum showcases the history, culture, and natural heritage of the Ningxia region, featuring ancient artifacts, fossils, and artworks. It is a great place to learn about the local history and culture. (updated Dec 2024)
• 4 Shizuishan Yellow River Grand Canyon (石嘴山黄河大峡谷), Yellow River Basin. The Yellow River Grand Canyon is located near Shizuishan and is a magnificent scenic spot along the Yellow River. With fast-flowing river waters and steep rock cliffs, it is an ideal location for hiking and photography (updated Dec 2024)

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  5 Longquan Temple (龙泉寺), Huihong District. Longquan Temple is a Buddhist temple in Shizuishan, with a deep religious and historical background. The temple features grand architecture and is an important pilgrimage site for local devotees and tourists (updated Dec 2024)

Do

The traditional festivals in Shizuishan are closely linked to the folk culture of Ningxia. Here are some of the major festivals celebrated

• Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) is the most important traditional festival in China, marking the beginning of the new year. In Shizuishan, people celebrate with family reunions, ancestral worship, decorating with spring couplets, setting off fireworks, and holding temple fairs. Traditional foods such as dumplings and fish are enjoyed during family dinners.Temple fairs, dragon and lion dances, folk performances.
• Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates the harvest and family reunion. In Shizuishan, families gather to eat mooncakes and admire the full moon. There are also lantern exhibitions and folk performances. Eating mooncakes, moon gazing, lantern parades.
• Tomb Sweeping Day (Qingming Festival) is a time for tomb sweeping and honoring ancestors. In Shizuishan, people visit graves to pay respects to their ancestors and offer sacrifices. It is also a time for outings and enjoying the outdoors.Tomb sweeping, outdoor activities, ancestor worship.
• Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang Festival) is a traditional day to honor the elderly and respect elders. In Shizuishan, people climb mountains, appreciate chrysanthemums, and spend time with the elderly. Mountain climbing, chrysanthemum appreciation, elder respect activities.
• Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the poet Qu Yuan. In Shizuishan, people celebrate with dragon boat races, eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), and hanging up mugwort and calamus to ward off evil spirits.Dragon boat races, eating zongzi, hanging mugwort.

Buy

In Shizuishan, visitors can purchase various local specialties and souvenirs. Here are some popular items:

• Ningxia Hui ethnic handicrafts: Shizuishan is one of the origins of the Ningxia Hui ethnic group, and traditional Hui handicrafts are popular in the area. These include embroidered items, woven baskets, and silver jewelry. These crafts are often intricately designed and reflect the local cultural heritage.
• Ningxia Dates: Ningxia is known for its high-quality dates, especially the “jujube” variety. These dates are sweet, nutritious, and often used in traditional Chinese medicine. They make a great gift or snack.
• Shizuishan Tea: Shizuishan is located in Ningxia, a tea-producing region. The local tea, particularly “Ningxia black tea,” is known for its rich flavor and high quality.
• Chinese medicinal herbs: Ningxia is rich in various Chinese medicinal herbs. Visitors can find products such as goji berries, angelica root, and other herbal health supplements.
• Local wines: Ningxia is an emerging wine region in China, and Shizuishan produces some local wines, especially red wines. The region’s wines have gained recognition for their high quality.

Eat

Here are some recommended restaurants in Shizuishan

• 1 Shizuishan Beef and Lamb Restaurant (石嘴山牛羊肉馆), Xinhua East Street, Dawu Kou District. This restaurant specializes in beef and lamb dishes, known for its tender meat and rich flavors, which are loved by locals and tourists alike. The lamb skewers and beef hotpot are highly recommended, paired with authentic seasonings for a memorable taste. (updated Dec 2024)
• 2 Xiaobaiyang Hotpot Restaurant (小白羊火锅店), No. 29 Changqing Street, Dawu Kou District. Known for its unique hotpot flavors, fresh ingredients, and delicious broth, this restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere perfect for dining with family or friends. The beef and lamb are particularly tender and worth trying. (updated Dec 2024)
• 3 Hao Weidao Restaurant (好味道饭店), Intersection of Xingfu Street and Shengli Road, Pingluo County. This restaurant serves traditional Ningxia dishes, especially hand-pulled lamb and local snacks. The flavors are authentic, and the prices are reasonable, making it a popular choice among locals for everyday dining. (updated Dec 2024)
• 4 Dadong Restaurant (大东饭店), No. 17 Wenhua East Road, Huinong District. This restaurant offers a wide variety of home-style Chinese dishes, specializing in Sichuan cuisine and Ningxia-flavored dishes. With friendly service and a comfortable environment, it’s an ideal place for family gatherings or casual meals with friends. (updated Dec 2024)
• 5 Food Street (Snack Street) (小吃街), Dong Street, Dawu Kou District. For those wanting to sample a variety of authentic local snacks, Shizuishan’s Food Street is the perfect destination. It features many local Ningxia and Shaanxi-style dishes, such as Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), fried rice noodles, and lamb skewers. The lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for snack lovers. (updated Dec 2024)

Drink

Here are some recommended drink stores in Shizuishan

• 1 Ningxia Goji Tea House (宁夏枸杞茶馆), Xinhua East Street, Dawu Kou District. This tea house specializes in offering Ningxia goji berry tea and local teas. With a quiet and relaxing environment, it’s a great place to enjoy goji berry tea and unwind. (updated Dec 2024)
• 2 Sheep Milk Specialty Store (宁夏枸杞茶馆), Jinhu Road, Huinong District. This store offers fresh sheep milk and related products, known for its rich flavor. It’s a great spot to experience and taste a traditional local drink. (updated Dec 2024)

Sleep

These accommodation options cater to a range of needs, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly choices, allowing travelers to find a suitable place to stay based on their preferences and budget.

• 1 Shizuishan Marriott Hotel (石嘴山万豪酒店), Changqing East Street, Dawu Kou District, ☏ +86 951 205 8888. This upscale hotel offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities and excellent service. It is ideal for business trips or family vacations, with an on-site restaurant, gym, and conference facilities. 
• 2 Shizuishan Hotel (石嘴山酒店), Xinhua East Street, Dawu Kou District, ☏ +86 951 611 8888. A well-established hotel, Shizuishan Hotel offers affordable accommodation with a quiet environment and attentive service. It is perfect for short-term travelers. (updated Dec 2024)
• 3 Huinong Grand Hotel (惠农大酒店), Central Avenue, Huinong District, ☏ +86 951 440 2222. A mid-range hotel that provides clean rooms and a comfortable experience, ideal for both business and leisure travelers (updated Dec 2024)