Explore the hidden gems of Ningxia on a five-day adventure through ancient tombs, rugged deserts, and some of China’s most acclaimed wineries. From afternoon tea in the Tengger Desert to wine tastings at boutique estates like Xige and Chateau Yuanshi, this trip is a rich blend of history, nature, and indulgence.

• Location: Yinchuan, Ningxia Province
• Duration: 5 Days
• Trip Type: Winery, desert exploration, historical and cultural adventure
• Suitable for: Singles, couples, groups
• Organizer: OKDeal Travel

What to Expect

Explore Ningxia's rich blend of wine culture, desert landscapes, and mysterious history on this five-day trip through China's hidden northwest gem.

• Taste award-winning wines at three distinctive wineries, Xige Estate, Chateau Yuanshi and Sonte & Moon Winery

• Hike through the Tengger Desert and unwind with an afternoon tea at a desert hotel

• Discover the ancient Xixia Dynasty tombs, known as the "Chinese Pyramids"

• View the majestic Helan Mountain

• Walk a historic stretch of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall

• Visit Hui minority families and enjoy a home-style local lunch
• Stay in comfort at a 5-star hotel in Yinchuan City throughout the trip

This is a unique journey for wine lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to explore a lesser-known part of China in style.

Location

Yinchuan, capital of Ningxia Province, sits quietly between the Yellow River and the Helan Mountains, on the edge of the Tengger Desert. Once the capital of the Xixia Kingdom, it’s a place where lost empires meet bold new flavors in the form of world-class wines.

Ningxia’s unique climate—dry, sunny, and nestled at 38°N latitude—makes it ideal for viticulture. The Helan Mountains block harsh weather from the west, creating the perfect conditions for wine grapes. The region has quickly earned international acclaim, with wine critics like Jancis Robinson declaring that “the future of Chinese wine lies in Ningxia.”

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Yinchuan

• Arrival at Yinchuan’s airport (airport transfer included if within designated times)
• Check-in at hotel and rest
• Optional free time to explore the city
• Evening visit to a local night market for street food tasting

Drive: 38km, ~45 mins
Meals: None

Day 2: Mausoleum of Xixia Dynasty – Helan Mountain – Chateau Yuanshi

• Visit the Mausoleum of the Western Xia Dynasty, known as the "Chinese Pyramids"
• Try your hand at making traditional Xixia character rubbings
• Afternoon hike in Helan Mountain Forest Park, known for rock sheep and sweeping views
• Wine tasting at Chateau Yuanshi, a winery built from recycled quarry materials in a Chinese garden style

Drive: 130km, ~2.5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Ming Dynasty Great Wall – Tengger Desert

• Visit a well-preserved section of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall on the Ningxia-Inner Mongolia border
• Desert hiking adventure in the Tengger Desert hinterland
• Afternoon tea in a scenic desert hotel setting

Drive: 225km, ~4 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Afternoon Tea

Day 4: Wineries and Culture – Stone & Moon Winery – Wuzhong – Xige Estate

• Morning wine tasting at Stone & Moon Winery, founded by an international team of winemakers
• Visit to a Hui minority family home in Wuzhong and enjoy a local specialty lunch
• Afternoon wine tasting at Xige Estate, one of China’s most celebrated modern wineries

Drive: 250km, ~4.5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Departure from Yinchuan

• Transfer to Yinchuan Airport for departure

Drive: 70km, ~1 hr 15 mins
Meals: Breakfast

Note: Itinerary is for reference only and timing may vary depending on weather, traffic, or organizational factors.

Difficulty: Easy – suitable for people of all fitness levels

Packlist

Essentials to Bring:

• Original passport/ID card
• Backpack with sufficient clothes for the trip
• Anti-slip hiking shoes, warm outdoor clothes and swimsuit
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Personal medicaiton (if needed)
• Toiletries (optional but recommended)
• Personal electronics (mobile phone, laptop, camera, chargers)
• Personal snacks (energy bars etc.)

Pricing Details and Dates

*1000 RMB deposit per person is required to book a spot

Room Arrangement Policy

If booking alone, there will be an additional charge for a private room. However, guests who are open to sharing a room may inform the event organizer, and efforts will be made to match them with another single participant. Please note that a shared room arrangement is not guaranteed, and if no suitable match is found, the private room supplement will still apply.

What’s Included in the Package?

• 4 nights’ accommodation at Trip.com 5-star hotels in Yinchuan city
• Comfortable, air-conditioned tour bus with airport transfer within the designated time
• Service of an experienced local driver and an English-speaking local guide
• 4 breakfasts; 1 lunch on Day 4; 1 afternoon tea; 3 wine-tasting experiences at different wineries
• Entrance tickets to all the main scenic spots listed in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• First-aid kit, bottled water, and travel kit

Not Included in the Package

• Main transportation (flights) to and from Yinchuan
• Single room supplement
• Additional meals not listed in the itinerary
• Invoice, personal expenses, and any unexpected expenses

How to Book

• Secure your spot by completing deposit payment on SmartShanghai.
• Once payment is made, the event organizer will contact you to confirm your booking.
• Further details, including trip specifics, schedules, and any additional information, will be provided.
• The remaining balance must be paid directly to the event organizer. Please ensure payment is completed as per the instructions provided by the organizer to confirm your participation.
• For any questions or special requests, guests are welcome to reach out.

Your spot will be secured—pack your bags, grab your hiking shoes, and get ready to sip world-class wines while exploring the hidden gems of Ningxia!

*Booking closes once spots are full or 2 days in advance, whichever comes first. Secure your spot early to avoid missing out!

Cancellation Policy

If members cancel the trip for personal reasons:

• Cancellation 14 days (336 hours) or more before the trip:
  A full refund will be issued.
• Cancellation within 14 days (less than 336 hours) before the trip:
  Deposit will not be refunded.

Flight or train tickets will be refunded according to the policies of the airline or railway company.

If the trip cannot be continued due to force majeure (such as flood, earthquake, weather, or transportation issues):

Part of the trip payment may be refunded under the following conditions:

• Local bus transport fees included in your travel fee (as fully prepaid to the local bus agency) will not be refunded.
• Tour guide fees included in your travel fee will not be refunded.
• Full hotel/attraction fees already spent will not be refunded.
• New local hotel fees or other fees incurred at the destination will not be refunded.
• Flight/train changing/cancellation fees will not be refunded.
• Other personal losses incurred will not be refunded.

*Please note that your booking is confirmed only when full payment is made. Seats are limited. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your spot to a friend, but rescheduling to another trip is not permitted.

Disclaimer

OKDeal Travel Disclaimer:

1. OKDeal Travel is not responsible for any unforeseen changes or disruptions caused by force majeure, including but not limited to:

• Temporary closure of attractions, suspension of sightseeing vehicles, or other disruptions due to weather or other uncontrollable factors.
• Seasonal landscapes (such as snow, flowers, or foliage) that are subject to weather conditions. Advertised images are for reference only and do not guarantee actual scenery.

2. The availability and operating hours of hotel facilities (e.g., swimming pools, saunas, fitness centers) are subject to change at the hotel's discretion.

3. Prices for optional activities listed in the itinerary may vary based on the local provider. Advertised prices are for reference only.

4. In the event of uncontrollable factors such as weather or traffic affecting the itinerary, adjustments may be made as necessary to ensure traveler safety.

5. The availability of single or double beds in hotel accommodations is not guaranteed.

All forms of outdoor recreation, including hiking, carry a higher level of risk compared to most ordinary activities. By participating in OkDeal Travel's hike, participants acknowledge and accept full responsibility for assessing the suitability of the activity for themselves. They are responsible for their own safety, conduct, and well-being and agree to participate solely at their own risk.

OkDeal Travel, its organizers, and hike leaders will not be held liable for any loss, injury, or damage sustained as a result of participation in these activities.

Photography Policy: Photos taken during the trip may be used for promotional purposes. Those who wish to opt out should notify the organizers before signing up.