Getting Around Shizuishan
Shizuishan is a moderate-sized city on the western bank of the Yellow River, in the far north of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Its layout and scale make it fairly easy to navigate: the public bus network covers the main commercial districts, residential areas and attractions, taxis are plentiful and inexpensive, and much of the city centre can comfortably be explored on foot. For longer hops to outlying sights, self-driving or a hired car is the most flexible option.
Rail
Shizuishan Railway Station is the city's rail gateway and is served by trains from major cities including Beijing, Xi'an and Lanzhou. High-speed service links Shizuishan with Yinchuan, the regional capital, in roughly 40 minutes, which makes the train a convenient way to arrive from the capital or to connect onward to the wider national network.
Buses and Other Public Transport
The public bus system is the mainstay of local transport, reaching major commercial areas, residential neighbourhoods and attractions. Fares are low, typically around ¥2 depending on the route, and buses are used by locals and visitors alike. Note that Shizuishan has no metro or tram network; buses, taxis and rented bikes are the practical alternatives.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are widely available and easy to hail in the city centre. Fares are reasonable, with a starting fare of around ¥10 and the total depending on distance travelled, which makes taxis a good choice for short trips around town. For app-based ride-hailing, you will need a mobile app that works in mainland China.
Bicycles and Self-Driving
- Bicycle and e-bike rental: The city has developed cycling lanes and green spaces, so rented bicycles and electric bikes are a practical way to get around. Shared bikes and e-bikes can be rented through mobile apps in certain areas of the city.
- Self-driving: Road conditions are good and traffic is relatively smooth, making a car convenient for trips between the city and nearby attractions. Several parking lots are available around the city.
Walking
Shizuishan's moderate size means many of its in-city attractions can be reached on foot. Walking is a pleasant and easy way to explore, particularly in good weather.
Getting There and Airport Connections
Shizuishan has no airport of its own. The nearest is Yinchuan Hedong International Airport, roughly 120 km away. From the airport you have two main options:
- Taxi: A direct taxi ride from the airport to Shizuishan takes about 1.5–2 hours.
- Airport shuttle or bus, then long-distance bus: Take the airport shuttle or a public bus into Yinchuan, then transfer to a long-distance bus to Shizuishan.
Other ways into the city include:
- Train: Shizuishan Railway Station receives trains from Beijing, Xi'an and Lanzhou, with high-speed service from Yinchuan taking about 40 minutes.
- Bus: Frequent buses run from Yinchuan to Shizuishan, taking about 2 hours. Long-distance buses from cities such as Baotou, Lanzhou and Wuhai also serve the city.
- Car: From Yinchuan, drive the G6 Beijing–Tibet Expressway, a trip of about 1.5 hours. Shizuishan is also reachable via several other major highways, which suits self-driving travellers.