Which is Better: Shahu Lake or Shapotou? What Are Their Differences?

Shapotou is located in Zhongwei City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. It mainly protects the landscape of the Tengger Desert, native desert vegetation and local wild animals. Sitting on the southeastern edge of the Tengger Desert, it is a convergence zone of grasslands and deserts, as well as flora from Central Asia and the Loess Plateau of North China. Episodes 3 and 4 of the popular TV show Where Are We Going, Dad? were filmed here.

To its south stands Xiangshan Mountain, a towering branch of the Qilian Mountains with rolling peaks. To the north lies the vast Tengger Desert covered with endless sand dunes. The surging Yellow River cuts across the middle, forming a lush oasis sandwiched between sand and water.

Shahu Lake is near Pingluo County, Shizuishan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, 42 kilometers away from Yinchuan, the provincial capital. The scenic area features over 20 square kilometers of desert adjacent to more than 40 square kilometers of water. It boasts both the grandeur of vast desert landscapes and the delicate beauty of riverside scenery typical of regions south of the Yangtze River — a feature it shares with Shapotou.

The biggest distinction lies in their core landscapes. Shahu Lake is primarily a wetland park, with wetland scenery as its highlight. In contrast, Shapotou focuses on protecting the Tengger Desert landscape, native desert plants and wildlife, showcasing authentic desert customs.

Their signature activities also differ greatly. At Shapotou, visitors should not miss sand sliding, exploring desert oases and crossing the Yellow River on sheepskin rafts. At Shahu Lake, cruising through reed marshes by yacht and watching birds and fish are unmissable experiences.

It is largely a matter of personal preference. Both destinations combine the magnificence of the desert and the charm of diverse vegetation, yet each has its own characteristics. Shahu Lake is ideal for water activities, while Shapotou is famous for sand sliding.

Shapotou has an arid climate, with an average annual temperature of 9.6°C. The extreme high temperature reaches 38.1°C. Sandstorms frequently occur in winter and spring, which may cause disorientation and pose safety risks. May to October (summer and autumn) is the best travel period, when temperatures are mild and weather conditions are stable.

Spring is the prime season for visiting Shahu Lake. Colorful bird eggs scattered across the lake form a marvelous natural spectacle.