Jinyintan Grassland
Departing from Shadao and heading north on S130, you will reach the Jinyintan Grassland in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in about 20 minutes. As the site where China's first atomic and hydrogen bombs were manufactured, Jinyintan has long shouldered the honorable mission of nuclear physics research and testing. The thermal power plant that was responsible for supplying electricity to the site back then is still in use today, making it a living fossil in the history of China's nuclear weapons development.
Riyue Mountain Scenic Area
Nowadays, Riyue Mountain is a flood control dam on the eastern side of Qinghai Lake, but during the Tang Dynasty, it was an important border between China and the Western Regions. Within the area, Princess Spring and the Tang-Tibet Ancient Road are witnesses to historical events such as alliances, marriages, and the tea-horse trade.
Dangaer Ancient City
Dangaer Ancient City is located in Huangyuan County, Qinghai Province, 40 kilometers from Xining City. It is known as the 'Throat of Haizang' and the 'Tea-Horse Trading Capital'. The ancient city is not large in scale, but its streets are lined with shops selling local Qinghai souvenirs and specialties, making it a great place to buy gifts. Additionally, there are old buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, such as the Chenghuang Temple and the Jin Buddha Temple.
Ta'er Monastery. This is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism in China and serves as the activity center for Tibetan Buddhism in the northwest region of China. It is renowned for its 'Three Great Art Treasures': murals, barbola, and butter sculptures, which recreate the flourishing history of Tibetan Buddhism. The white pagodas and pavilions within the monastery stand tall, making one feel as if they are in a Tibetan scenic spot. The relief murals with strong Tibetan characteristics extend from the base to the top of the pagoda, narrating the hidden history of Tibetan Buddhism.
Mo Jia Street
Returning to Xining, nothing is more perfect than having a big meal. Located in the Dashizi commercial area, Mo Jia Street is a local traditional dining area that gathers Qinghai specialty foods such as hand-grabbed mutton, clay pot, niangpi, and sweet fermented grains. This is the right place to satisfy your cravings.
Nanshan Park
At the end of the journey, why not use a view of Xining's nightscape as a footnote to this trip? Come to Nanshan Park in the city center, climb to the Phoenix Terrace with the most expansive view, take photos, and conclude this thrilling trip to Qinghai.
