Things To Do
in Xining
Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. It serves as a gateway to the Tibetan Plateau and boasts a diverse population, including Han, Tibetan, Hui, and other ethnic groups. The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and is home to historical sites, such as the Kumbum Monastery, making it a unique destination for travelers.
Xining's altitude at over 2,200 meters gives it a distinct climate and breathtaking landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the Kumbum Monastery, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, where you can witness morning prayers and explore the intricate architecture.
Visit the Qinghai Provincial Museum to learn about the region's history and diverse cultures, followed by a stroll around the bustling Dongguan Mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Muslim cuisine, then take a walk along the scenic banks of the Huangshui River, where you can find local street performers.
Start with a hike at the nearby Qinghai Lake, the largest saltwater lake in China, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
After lunch at a lakeside café, head to the scenic Sun and Moon Mountain, where you can take pictures and enjoy the fresh air.
Return to Xining for dinner and visit the night market to sample local street food, including roasted lamb skewers and noodles.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Bowl of Noodle Soup | $2 |
| 🥟Steamed Dumplings | $3 |
| 🍖Lamb Skewers | $1 each |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🚌Public Transport Ticket | $0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity and unique ethnic cuisine.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to other Chinese cities.
- High altitude may affect some visitors.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier can pose challenges for non-Chinese speakers.
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱 (Duōshǎo qián)" - How much?
- "厕所在哪里？(Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "我可以帮你吗？(Wǒ kěyǐ bāng nǐ ma?)" - Can I help you?
Places to Visit in Xining
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the stunning architecture and vibrant colors of this important Buddhist site, especially during prayer times.
A picturesque spot for landscape photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the colors reflect off the water.
Known for its breathtaking views and unique rock formations, this spot is perfect for nature and wildlife photography.
Food in Xining
Xining Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple in Xining, made with hand-pulled noodles, meat, and flavorful broth, often garnished with chili oil.
Must-Try!
Succulent lamb skewers seasoned with spices and grilled to perfection, a must-try for meat lovers.
Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a variety of street food options, including grilled meats, local snacks, and fresh fruits.
Located near the lake, these stalls offer fresh seafood and local specialties in a scenic setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Showing respect for elders is crucial in Chinese culture; always greet older individuals first.
When dining, it's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.
In markets, bargaining is expected and part of the shopping experience; approach it with a friendly attitude.
Safety
Tipping in Xining
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.
Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, and cash is also accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) sees mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.
Summer (June to August) is warm but may have occasional rainfall; it's the best time to visit Qinghai Lake for water activities.
Autumn (September to November) offers cool temperatures and stunning fall foliage, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Winter (December to February) can be very cold with snowfall; it's less crowded, offering a peaceful experience but requires warm clothing.
Xining at Night
Hiking in Xining
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning hiking trail that leads to the famous Chaka Salt Lake, known for its mirror-like surface and unique salt formations.
A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is popular among both locals and tourists.
Airports
How to reach Xining by plane.
Located about 30 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights to major cities and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Xining, comprising the majority of the population and influencing the culture and cuisine.
A significant minority in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and traditional practices, especially in religion and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely played in Xining, with local clubs and community games being popular among youth.
Basketball is a favored sport, with many public courts available for locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xining.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly in Buddhist areas.
Xining has a significant Muslim population, so halal options are widely available in many restaurants.