Boasting an array of natural and manmade wonders, along with an agreeable summer climate, Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, has long been known as an ideal summer travel destination in China. Compiled below is a list of the sights any trip to Xining would not be complete without:

Golden Lady Mountain

First known as Golden Mountain, and then renamed after the most beloved concubine of Emperor Sui Yang of the Sui Dynasty died there.

Golden Lady Mountain is located 30 kilometers outside of Xining. Known for the wild flowers that bloom on its slopes every spring and summer, adding refreshing sweetness to the crisp mountain air, Golden Lady Mountain has the ability to bring out the nature lover in all of us. Other natural features include the many waterfalls and ponds, with one clear pond considered a miracle by locals for its inability to dry up �even during the worst of droughts.

Misty Rain of the Northern Mountain

The Chinese have long recommended not only viewing beautiful landscapes, but viewing them in different conditions �different types of weather, times of day, times of year, etc.

Xining's Northern Mountain is a breathtaking collection of ridges and peaks with Chinese-style pavilions scattered along trails leading up the mountain. If you're lucky enough to visit on a drizzling day, according to Xining residents, you'll bear witness to the most enchanting sight Northern Mountain has to offer. Supposedly, the green mountain gleams in the misty rain, and the pavilions appear covered by soft silk. Everything seems hushed in the regular drizzle, with the only exception being Ningshou Pagoda, which stands erect like an old monk, pondering over his enigmatic surroundings. What a beautiful water painting!

Dongguan Mosque

Dongguan Mosque is located on Dongguan St. First built in the Ming Dynasty, it is the best-preserved ancient building in Xining, and the largest Islamic mosque in Qinghai Province. One of the most famous mosques in northwestern China, Dongguan is the chief assembly place for the city's Muslim population.

Wufeng Mountain

Wufeng Mountain means “five peaks�mountain in Chinese, aptly named for the five peaks that crown the mountain's summit. Visitors to the mountain are advised to tour nine sites consisting of: three caves �the Eastern, Western, and Northern caves, three springs �the Dragon Palace, Yin, and Breach springs, and three woods �the Pine, Yang and Birch woods. Most visitors remember the interplay of the nine sites, with springs feeding waterfalls whose mist wafts through the woods that line the mountain's caves.

Ta'er Temple

30 kilometers southwest of Xining, Ta'er Temple is a famous historical site. First built in the Ming Dynasty, it has a history that goes back over 400 years. The temple is actually comprised of several smaller temples, halls for scripture, Buddhist pagodas and monks' dormitory, and incorporates both Tibetan and Han architectural styles.

In addition to its fine architectural form, beautiful carvings, paintings, and embroideries decorate the temple.Especially known for its examples of Tibetan Ghee Flower and Dui embroidery, along with Tibetan frescoes, which are considered to be the three flowers of the Tibetan art, Ta'er Temple is not only a Buddhist holy place, but also a sacred hall of art.

Moon Night of the Dragon Pond

A spring of local renown is located in one of Xining's western suburbs. Known as Dragon Pond, the small body of water derives its fame from the reflection of the moon in its waters.

Spring Water Rising of the Huang River

Beichuan River, a tributary of the Huang River, swells in early spring with snowmelt. By the turbulent river's side, willows put on their spring clothes, while peach and apricot flowers come out one after another.

The Small Gorge

The Small Gorge is a deep valley ten kilometers east of Xining. The valley bed receives little sunshine and is perpetually windswept. Standing between the cliff sides with the wind blowing in your face literally takes your breath away.

Xining People's Park

Xining People's Park is the largest park in the city, and houses a manmade lake and zoo. There are hundreds of animal species within the zoo, including rare snow leopards, white-lip deer, and black neck cranes.(Text by Liu Yudan)

source: crienglish.com