Yinchuan’s Historic City Park: Zhongshan Park Visitor Guide
Introduction
Morning sunlight filters through century-old trees, casting mottled shadows on bluestone paths. Elders practicing tai chi stir the breeze with their sleeves, children’s laughter blends with the oars at the boat pier—this is Zhongshan Park in Yinchuan, a 32-hectare “living museum” that has recorded nearly a century of the city’s story. As Ningxia’s first comprehensive public park, it is the city’s green lung and an open history album waiting to be read.
1. The Dual Soul of a Century-old Park: Cultural Memory and Natural Poetry
“Half of Yinchuan’s history, one Zhongshan Park”—a local ditty that captures the park’s special charm. Built in 1929 to commemorate Sun Yat-sen, the park carries revolutionary memory while reflecting the garden wisdom of northwest China. Enter through the north gate and the first sight is the upturned eaves of Wenchang Pavilion, a Qing-era building that once symbolized Yinchuan’s commitment to culture and education. The pavilion hosts regular calligraphy and painting exhibitions; the wooden stairs creak like storytellers of the past.
A five-minute walk east brings you to the solemn Martyrs’ Monument, where fresh bouquets are often laid. Locals pause here, as one retired teacher who walks daily put it: “Every brick remembers the city’s storms.” Turn toward the lakeshore and the mood brightens—the small zoo’s bleats of Ningxia tan sheep and the peacocks’ ornate displays create a whimsical harmony. One of the northwest’s earliest zoos, it remains a natural classroom for children.
2. A Garden That Changes With the Seasons
Zhongshan Park is a master of seasonal transformation:
– Spring brilliance: From late March, tulips and peonies alternate in bloom as gardeners “paint” patterns inspired by Western Xia script with flower beds.
– Summer refreshment: During the July Lotus Festival, over 20 mu (about 1.3 hectares) of lake turns into a green-water painting; evenings often feature traditional Ningxia seated singing.
– Autumn serenity: At the Chongyang Festival chrysanthemum show, more than 300 varieties form an impressive “Helan Mountain” display.
– Winter revelry: The frozen lake becomes a natural skating rink and hawkers selling candied hawthorn add northern festive warmth.
Local tip: Photographers favor the lakeside pavilion at 6:00 a.m.—the Wenchang Pavilion reflected in morning mist is often called “Yinchuan’s most beautiful postcard.”
3. A Living Folk Museum
The park’s most moving quality is its ongoing life performances. Every Saturday morning, folk processions with stilt-walkers parade along the shaded lanes; performers’ bright face paint complements the golden ginkgo leaves. During the Lantern Festival the park transforms into a sea of lights—Yinchuan’s unique haozi lanterns, woven from reeds, glow like stars come to earth.
Renting a pedal boat at the pier (RMB 30 per hour) is one of the best ways to blend with local life. From the lake center you’ll see small groups of hua’er singers under the trees—this traditional Ningxia folk singing drifts in the breeze, and many visitors find themselves humming along.
4. Practical Guide: Visit Like a Local
– Admission surprises: The main park area is free; select amusement rides charge separately (ferris wheel RMB 20 per ride). Zoo admission is RMB 10; students pay half price.
– Local flavors: Just outside the park’s west gate, “Old Mao Hand-Pulled Lamb” has served customers for 60 years. After your walk, try authentic hand-pulled mutton (RMB 88 per jin) for a satisfying finish.
– Getting there: Take bus No. 12 or 15 to the “Park West Gate” stop; by car, use the underground lot on Wenhua East Street (RMB 5 per hour).
5. Suggested Itineraries
After feeling the city’s pulse in the park, continue your Yinchuan exploration:
– Cultural route: Walk 15 minutes to the Drum Tower, sampling Mengji snacks like huidouzi, a northwest sweet specialty, along the way.
– Nature route: A 20-minute taxi takes you to Lanshan Park, where a Roman-style arena offers sunset views over the Helan Mountains.
Conclusion
When night falls and the corridor’s lanterns light in sequence, you’ll understand why locals call Zhongshan Park the city’s living parlor. Whether you want to touch the warmth of history or simply find a shady bench to daydream, this nearly century-old park welcomes you with quiet, tolerant grace. If you pass through Yinchuan again, give your first morning to Zhongshan Park—sit by the lake and listen as the city tells its truest stories.
