Located in Dalad Banner, Ordos City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Xiangshawan (Resonant Sand Bay) is a famous desert tourist area in China, named for the roaring sound produced by its sand. Combining desert landscapes, ethnic culture and leisure resorts, it is hailed as "the Disneyland in the desert".
Natural Wonders
Geographical Features
- Location: Eastern end of Kubuqi Desert, 45km from Baotou City.
- Desert Area: Covers 24 square kilometers with dunes up to 110m high.
- Phenomenon: Sand produces aircraft-like roaring when sliding in dry weather.
Scientific Principle
- Explanation: Special quartz sand generates electrostatic resonance when rubbing.
- Best Time: Sunny summer afternoons when sand is driest produce loudest sounds.
Scenic Features
Five Theme Zones
- Yue Sha Island: Desert culture experience with Mongolian performances.
- Xian Sha Island: Desert adventure zone offering off-road driving and parasailing.
- Lian Sha Island: Desert resort with world's only Lotus Hotel.
- Fu Sha Island: Mongolian folk experience including yurts and milk tea.
- One Grain Sand: Art zone combining desert and contemporary art.
Unique Experiences
- Desert Cableway: China's longest desert cable car (1,500m).
- Camel Riding: Experience the "ship of the desert".
- Desert Stargazing: Minimal light pollution makes it perfect for astronomy.
Activities
Must-Try
- Sand Sliding: Slide down 50m dunes to hear the singing sands.
- Desert Off-roading: Ride professional vehicles over dunes.
- Desert Train: Unique transportation through sand sea.
Seasonal Specials
- Summer: Desert pool and water park (Jun-Aug).
- Winter: Desert skiing and ice sculpture exhibition (Dec-Feb).
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Peak Season (May-Oct): 8:00-18:30
- Off Season (Nov-Apr): 9:00-17:00
Ticket Prices
- Basic Ticket: ¥80/person (includes round-trip cableway)
- Package: ¥280-380 (includes multiple activities)
Transportation
- By Air: To Ordos Airport, then transfer via shuttle (1.5hrs)
- By Train: To Baotou Station, take direct tourist bus (1hr)
- By Car: Via Jingzang Expressway to Baomao Expressway, Xiangshawan exit
Travel Tips
- Best Season: May-October, avoid midday heat
- Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, sand-proof scarf
- Note: Large temperature variations require warm clothing