Xiangshawan Tourist Area

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Spot Introduction

Located on the southern edge of the Kubuqi Desert, Xiangshawan is China’s largest desert theme tourist area. Here, visitors can enjoy not only spectacular desert landscapes but also a wealth of desert entertainment projects, making it a comprehensive tourist destination integrating sightseeing, entertainment, relaxation, and vacation.

Xiangshawan owes its name to the unique phenomenon of “singing sand dunes.” When the wind blows over the dunes or visitors slide down them, the sand produces a roaring sound, scientifically known as “singing sand.” Geologists have found that this phenomenon is a result of the combined effect of the special shape of sand grains and the dry climate. The round and smooth sand grains, when rubbed against each other under specific humidity conditions, create a resonance.

Covering a total area of 24 square kilometers with the highest sand dune reaching 1150 meters in altitude, this place was once an important post station on the ancient Silk Road, leaving rich historical and cultural relics. Since its development began in the 1980s, it has now established five thematic areas: Xiangshawan Scenic Area, Desert Entertainment Area, Desert Resort Area, Desert Water World, and Ecological Protection Area.

In terms of ecological protection, the scenic area adopts the sustainable development concept of “sand advancing, people retreating” and has established a comprehensive sand control system. By planting sand-growing plants and setting up sand barriers, the expansion of desertification has been effectively controlled. Additionally, the scenic area has set up a Desert Ecology Museum to educate visitors about desert ecology.

Spot Introduction

Visitors can experience unique desert activities: enjoy the desert sunrise in the early morning and feel the magnificence of the “straight smoke rising from the vast desert”; experience exciting desert surfing, sand sliding, and motocross in the sand during the day; appreciate the exquisite scenery of the “round sunset over the long river” in the evening; participate in a bonfire party at night to experience Mongolian customs. The scenic area also provides special experience projects such as desert camping and stargazing.

As a national 5A-level tourist attraction, Xiangshawan is not only a tourist destination but also an important base for studying desert ecology and conducting science popularization education. It attracts millions of domestic and foreign tourists every year to experience the unique desert style.

Must-see Attractions

  1. Xiangshawan Scenic Area

    • Singing Sand Dunes
    • Desert Viewing Platform
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes

  2. Desert Entertainment Area

    • Desert Surfing
    • Motocross in the Sand
    • Camel Riding
    • Suggested experience time: 120 minutes

  3. Desert Resort Area

    • Desert Hotel
    • Camping Base
    • Bonfire Party
    • Suggested experience time: 180 minutes

  4. Desert Water World

    • Water Park
    • Water Play Projects
    • Suggested play time: 120 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route
    Day 1:

    • Morning: Visit Xiangshawan Scenic Area
    • Afternoon: Experience desert entertainment projects
    • Evening: Desert camping or bonfire party

    Day 2:

    • Morning: Desert Water World
    • Afternoon: Supplementary experience of special projects

  2. Travel Time Arrangement

    • Avoid the high temperature period at noon
    • Enjoy the desert sunset in the evening
    • Reserve sufficient rest time

  3. Practical Tips

    • Sunscreen and sand-proof equipment are essential
    • Sneakers are suitable for hiking
    • Prepare sufficient drinking water

Transportation Guide

  • Airplane: About 1 hour drive from Erdos Airport
  • Train: There is a shuttle bus from Erdos Station
  • Self-drive: Navigate to Xiangshawan Scenic Area
  • Tourist line: Direct buses are available from major cities
  1. Mongolian Special Roasted Lamb
  2. Desert Theme Restaurant
  3. Local Special Snacks
  4. Scenic Area Food Plaza

Special Reminders

  1. Sunscreen is essential, wear sunglasses
  2. Protect the camera from sand
  3. Entertainment projects should be done according to your ability
  4. Prepare a sand-proof mask
  5. Keep cash and mobile phones waterproof and sand-proof
  6. It is recommended to travel during off-peak hours
  7. Bring change of clothes
  8. Book accommodation in advance.