Sand by day, stars by night: Discover a different side of Shapotou

Shapotou Scenic Area lies in Zhongwei, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in northwest China.

A national-level tourist attraction, it is known for its striking landscape where the Yellow River meets the Tengger Desert.

After sunset, Shapotou takes on a different character.

At a local market, lights come on across the sands as local food and live music bring the summer night to life.

Visitors gather around tables, chatting and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere under the open sky.

Farther into the desert, the lights fade and the stars take center stage.

With wide-open views and little light pollution, the area offers ideal conditions for stargazing.

Visitors can first learn about constellations and astronomy in an indoor session before heading out onto the dunes, where they lie back beneath the night sky and follow stargazing guides in search of summer constellations and the Milky Way.

This summer, if you find yourself in Zhongwei, spend an evening in the desert – feel the night breeze, explore the market and look up at the stars to discover a different side of Shapotou.