Sikouzi (寺口子), historically known as Beihai, is nestled between the majestic peaks of the Xiangshan Mountain range. This scenic area has served as a crucial passageway throughout history, strategically linking important locations such as Guyuan, Pingliang, and Xi’an. To the north, it overlooks the Weining Plain, characterized by vast, fertile fields, while to the east, it gazes upon the ancient capital of the Western Xia dynasty, Yinchuan. To the west, it connects with the popular tourist destination of Shapotou. The area’s rich geographical features and historical significance have made Sikouzi a highly contested site in military history, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.
Covering an area of 18 square kilometers, Sikouzi Scenic Area is divided into two distinct zones: the eastern and western scenic areas. The eastern zone, known as the Saishang Qixia Scenic Area, is renowned for its dramatic rock formations and stunning canyon landscapes. Here, visitors can marvel at an array of uniquely shaped stones, some towering majestically while others are smooth and reflective, creating a captivating natural tapestry.
The western zone, called the Danyan Foguang Scenic Area, features steep cliffs and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the historic sites associated with Su Wu, a famous official from the Western Han dynasty, including the remains of his sheep-herding site, stone caves, and the Su Wu Temple. The stories of the Yang family generals from the Song dynasty are also prominent in this region.
While the two areas are not directly connected by transportation, visitors can enjoy a thrilling hike between them. The climb is steep and adventurous, making it well-suited for younger, more adventurous travelers. Due to its challenging terrain, Sikouzi has also been designated as a rock climbing base, boasting some of the largest natural rock climbing walls in the country.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.30; Last admission: 17.00 |
Location and Transportation
Sikouzi Scenic Area is located 20 kilometers south of Xuanhe Town in the Shapotou District of Zhongwei City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Visitors can easily reach Xuanhe Town by taking a bus from the Zhongwei Bus Station, with a ticket price of approximately 6 yuan. The journey takes about 65 minutes. Once in Xuanhe, travelers can hire a vehicle to the scenic area, with shared rides available for around 15 yuan per person.
