中卫市

Why this place

Zhongwei's Shapotou is where the Tengger desert meets the Yellow River — high sand dunes falling straight into the water, with sheepskin rafts floating downstream. It is one of the most photographed landscapes in the northwest.

What to see

• Shapotou — the dunes above the Yellow River, with sand-sledding and camel riding
• The sheepskin rafts (yangpi fati) that still carry people across the river
• The desert botanical garden and the sand-control research station

What to eat

• Zhongwei is known for its 'shapotou' lamb and its Yellow River carp
• Ningxia goji berries and the local melons

Best time

May–October; the dunes are best in the late afternoon