Yinchuan is capital of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Lying about 1250km west of Beijing, Yinchuan, surrounded by dry and mountainous terrain, is close to the Yellow River and sheltered by the Helan Mountains. Tourism-related industries, along with agricultural and healthcare products, are the backbone of the local economy.

Historians have dated Yinchuan's founding back more than 2,000 years, to the reign of Han Dynasty Emperor Hanchengdi. A little more than a millennium later, Li Yuanhao, founder of the Western Xia Dynasty, made the city its capital. Steeped in history both ancient and modern, Yinchuan offers the traveler a host of interesting sights. The scenic beauty of Sand Lake attracts bird-lovers and anyone who appreciates desert landscapes. The West Xia Imperial Tombs, the region's most famous sight, are both magnificent and sad, a relic of the lost civilization of the Tangut people, founders of the Western Xia dynasty. More about the dynasty can be discovered in the West Xia Museum.

As the Ningxia region is the home of the Muslim Hui people, delicious Muslim dishes feature on the menus of most restaurants, and Halal food can be found citywide. Try local specialties like Qingzheng Yanggaorou (steamed lamb), Yangrou Paomo (a mutton and beef soup) or Xiangsuji (spicy crisp chicken). Wash your meal down with some refreshing Gaiwancha tea. The most rewarding nighttime fun comes from traditional entertainment, especially singing performances, both formal and impromptu.