Ningxia Jinyuan County Travel Guide: Exploring the Poetic Wonderland at the Foot of Liupan Mountain

Jinyuan County, located at the southernmost tip of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and nestled at the eastern foot of Liupan Mountain, is named after the Jing River which originates here. With its beautiful mountains and rivers and pleasant climate, it's known as the "Green Island of the Plateau" and "Jiangnan of the Northern Frontier." As an important ecological tourism county in Ningxia, Jinyuan combines natural scenery, red culture, and Hui ethnic customs, making it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle and get close to nature. I. Travel Preparation Best Travel Time: May to October is the best season for tourism. Summer is cool and pleasant, making it a perfect summer retreat; autumn features colorful foliage and captivating scenery. 🚘Transportation: ✈️By Air: Fly to Guyuan Liupan Mountain Airport, then take a bus or private car to Jinyuan (about 1 hour drive). 🚂By Train: Take a train to Guyuan Station, then transfer to a bus to Jinyuan (about 1.5 hours). 🚙Self-driving: From Yinchuan, drive along the Fu-Yin Expressway for about 4 hours. 🏠Accommodation Recommendations: Jinyuan County town has good accommodation options, including Jinyuan Hotel and Liupan Mountain International Hotel; you can also choose farmstays near attractions like Lao Longtan and Wild Lotus Valley to experience rural charm. II. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Lao Longtan (Old Dragon Pool) Known as the "heart" of the Jing River, it consists of four natural stone pools of varying sizes. The water is crystal clear, surrounded by steep cliffs, creating magnificent scenery. 2. Wild Lotus Valley A canyon about 10 km long, named for the wild lotus flowers growing throughout the valley. When the lotus flowers bloom in summer, their fragrance fills the air, creating a refreshing experience. 3. Liupan Mountain National Forest Park Liupan Mountain was the last major mountain crossed by the Red Army during the Long March. The forest park features dense forests and fresh air, making it a natural oxygen bar. 4. Yanzhi Gorge Famous for its unique Danxia landform, the rocks in the gorge are red and appear as vibrant as rouge under sunlight. 5. Red Army Long March Memorial Museum Located at the top of Liupan Mountain, it was built to commemorate the Red Army's crossing of Liupan Mountain during the Long March. The museum houses numerous precious historical artifacts and photos, making it an important place to learn about the history of the Long March. III. Special Experiences ➽Taste Hui Cuisine: Jinyuan is home to many Hui people. Try hand-pulled lamb, stir-fried lamb, and various stewed snacks to experience the unique food culture. ➽Participate in Farmstay Activities: Experience picking fruits, fishing, and other activities at farmstays. Enjoy farm-to-table meals and feel the tranquility and comfort of rural life. ➽Buy Local Products: Jinyuan produces honey, goji berries, fern vegetables, and other local specialties that make great souvenirs. IV. Practical Tips⭕ ☑️Jinyuan has a high altitude with large temperature differences between day and night, so bring warm clothing. ☑️Some scenic areas require walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. ☑️Respect local Hui customs and mind your behavior. ☑️Protect the environment and don't litter. Jinyuan, a poetic hidden gem at the foot of Liupan Mountain, awaits you to explore its beauty and wonder.