Xiangshawan (Whistling Dune Bay) – the First Desert Resort Destination in China

Written by Veronica | Updated October 25,2024

Xiangshawan Scenic Area, also referred to as Singing Sand Bay or Whistling Dune Bay, is a national 5A-level desert attraction integrating sightseeing, leisure and vacation in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, China. “I’m a grain of sand” is the first greeting that every Whistling Dune Bay inhabitant says to you. “The world in a grain of sand” is the ultimate, never-ending and joyful world where all people share together. In this world full of sand, you will see a realistic but yet looking so surrealistic paradise where the sand can sing.

The Xiangshawan Scenic Area has created multiple leisure areas deep in the desert, including Xiansha Island with desert sports and amusement as the theme, Yuesha Island with art and sports as the theme, Fusha Island with Mongolian culture as the theme, and Liansha Island with Buddhist culture as the theme (the grand Lotus Hotel is situated on it). You can start from Xiangsha Bay Port and visit the above areas in sequence to experience different themes and entertainment activities.

 

Facts about Xiangshawan Scenic Area

• Location: in the eastern end of Kubuqi Desert in Dalate Banner, Ordos, Inner Mongolia
• Opening Time: 8:00 – 19:00, all year round
• Time Needed: Half a day – 1 day
• Ticket Price: 130 RMB per person (including cableway fee)
• Suited to: travelers who love nature, adventure, culture, and entertainment

The Mystery of Singing Sand

The Xiangshawan in Ordos is 110 meters high and 400 meters wide. It is surrounded by rolling sand dunes and faces a large river. The terrain is crescent shaped with a 45 degree slope, forming a huge sand dune echo wall.

When the sand is dry, you can climb up the soft ladder or take the cable car to the top, slide down, and the sand dune will make various echoes, ranging from the sound of a frog croaking to the roar of cars and planes, thunder piercing your ears, or a passionate symphony. This is how Whistling Dune Bay has been named.

For thousands of years, people have been unable to explain the cause of singing sand, but have given it many beautiful legends.

 

What to See and Do in Xiangshawan Scenic Area

Resonant Sands and Dunes: The area is famous for its resonant sands and dunes, which produce all kinds of sounds when stepped on or slid down from them.

Sand Sliding: You can slide down the sand dunes on sand-boards or sleds, enjoying the exhilarating experience during your trip to Ordos inner Mongolia.

Camel Riding: You can experience the desert on camel-back (there are over 500 camels here), taking in the spectacular desert views while riding a gentle and friendly animal.

Jeep Safaris: You can explore the desert on a thrilling jeep ride, zipping through the sand dunes and enjoying the breathtaking views.

Cable Car Ride: You can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the desert by taking a cable car ride, offering a unique perspective of the Whistling Dune Bay.

Mongolian Culture: You can experience Mongolian culture and customs by tasting roasted lamb, drinking koumiss (horse milk wine), watching wrestling and horse racing, and more.

Sand Sculpture Park: You can admire intricate sand sculptures depicting various themes, or even create a piece of sand artwork by yourself.

Nomad Theater: You can enjoy traditional Mongolian music and dance performances in Nomad Theater of the Whistling Dune Bay.

Best Time to Visit Xiangshawan Scenic Area

To visit Xiangshawan, one of the most famous deserts in China, the recommended time is from May to October when Ordos has relatively small sandstorms, humid air, and warm weather.

Tips: Ultraviolet rays are strong in the desert, and sunscreen and hydration measures are essential.

Summer and autumn are considered the best seasons for enjoying desert activities. However, in autumn you should prepare for the significant temperature difference between day and night during your Inner Mongolia tours.

Winter is also a unique time to visit the Whistling Dune Bay and enjoy a different type of desert scenery with snow and ice. From December to February, the area hosts the “Xiangshawan New Year Carnival” and offers a desert ski resort for visitors.

 

How to Get to Xiangshawan Scenic Area

• From Baotou city: about50 km, 50 minutes by car
• From Ordos city: about 80 km, 90 minutes by car
• From Hohhot city: over 180km, 3 hours by car

High speed road available to the singing sand bay of Inner Mongolia, with a well-maintained road and picturesque scenery along the way.

 

Attractions Nearby Xiangshawan Scenic Area

Ordos Grassland: A vast grassland with stunning views of blue skies, white clouds, green grass, and herds of horses and sheep. You can immerse yourself in the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle and culture.

Mausoleum of Genghis Khan: A sacred shrine dedicated to the founder of the Mongol Empire. You can learn about his life and accomplishments while observing traditional Mongolian worship ceremonies.

Ordos Museum: A contemporary museum showcasing the history, culture, and ecology of the Ordos and Inner Mongolia. The museum’s unique sand dune-shaped architecture is also an awesome sight.

Qixing Lake Desert Ecological Park: A scenic location offering a combination of desert and lake views. You can enjoy various leisure activities such as boating, fishing, sand sliding, and camel riding.

 

Customize your Inner Mongolia tours to Xiangshawan in Ordos >

 

Recommended Inner Mongolia Tours

• 3 Days Inner Mongolia Grassland and Desert Tour
• 5 Days Classic Inner Mongolia Tour with Leisure Hike
• 8 Days Inner Mongolia Cultural Tour with Hiking & Camping