EVENTS
Event Highlights
“B&R” Ningxia Cultural Exploration
2025-05-31
On 31 May, 35 members of the Maritime Silk Road Society gathered at Hong Kong International Airport for a direct flight to Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia. After settling into hotel in the evening, they rested in preparation for the upcoming cultural exploration—eager to experience the golden deserts, emerald waters, vast Gobi, majestic Helan Mountains, and the Yellow River, the "Mother River" of the Chinese nation.
The journey of day 2 began with a morning boat tour of Shahu Lake, a stunning expanse of water surrounded by 2,000 acres of reeds, home to diverse birdlife. As the boat glided forward, vast sand dunes suddenly emerged, creating a striking contrast with the lake’s lush scenery—a harmonious blend of Jiangnan’s water towns and desert landscapes. Next, the group visited the rugged and atmospheric Western Film Studio in Zhenbeibao, the filming site of classic movies like A Chinese Odyssey and Red Sorghum, as well as the TV drama Dance of Passion. Before dusk, they marveled at the ancient Helan Mountain Rock Carvings, including the iconic "Sun God" petroglyph, etched 40 meters high on a cliff, with its striking circular face, piercing eyes, and majestic aura.
Day 3 started with venturing into Inner Mongolia’s Tengger Desert, the group boarded off-road vehicles to traverse rolling dunes, visiting the mineral-rich Ulan Lake and Camel Lake, where vibrant hues reflected the desert’s surreal beauty. Returning to Ningxia, we explored Gaomiao Temple in Zhongwei, a unique fusion of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, renowned for its towering, intricate architecture.
The next stop on day 4 was Gansu’s Yellow River Stone Forest, featured in the movie The Myth. This 9-kilometer gorge flanked by towering sandstone formations offered a geological marvel. The group savored local farmhouse cuisine, sampled sun-dried fruits, and drifted down the Yellow River on traditional sheepskin rafts, immersing in rustic traditions.
Day 5 started at Shapotou, where the Tengger Desert meets the endless Yellow River, members soared 50 meters high on a "Desert Flyer" for panoramic views, then enjoyed camel rides, sand sliding, and dune rolling. The day ended with a walk across the Yellow River Glass Bridge and a visit to the Xumi Mountain Grottoes, a Silk Road treasure adorned with weathered Buddhist carvings.
On day 6, the group explored the Western Xia Mausoleum at the foot of the Helan Mountains, including the ruined Tomb #3 of Emperor Jingzong (Li Yuanhao). Though looted long ago, remnants of gate towers and steles hinted at its former grandeur.
The last day featured the Shuidonggou Ruins, a Paleolithic site flanked by Ming Dynasty Great Wall fortifications. The group navigated the maze-like Tibetan Soldier Tunnels, part of an ancient military defense system. Before departure, they learned about Ningxia’s famed goji berries and visited a award-winning winery, tasting local vintages that have gained global acclaim.
The trip concluded with a festive whole roasted lamb banquet, one of Ningxia’s "Top Ten Dishes," leaving everyone enriched by the region’s culture, history, and natural wonders. Afterward, they returned to their hotel, ready for the morning flight back to Hong Kong.
