Yellow River Shoals and Islands

　　Yellow River Shoals and Islands are scattered sandbanks and islets along the Yellow River. The river flows through Wuhai for 75.5 kilometers, and this stretch boasts the grandeur of the north as well as the charm of the south. Along the way, more than ten large and small islands and midstream shoals are scattered like emeralds inlaid on a golden ribbon of the river. The islands and shoals are covered with lush green grass and towering trees, offering stunning natural scenery.

　　Downstream, the Yellow River flows toward the Hetao Plain, flanked by the Ulan Buh Desert. On the west bank of the river, there is a desert scenic area with tourist facilities, accessible by boat. Visitors can enjoy sand sliding, swimming, and camel riding here. The main attractions of the Yellow River Shoals and Islands Scenic Area include—

　　Dazhong Shoal: Surrounded by water on all sides, it has been partially developed with the planting of numerous flowering trees, fruit trees, and ornamental trees. In spring and summer, the island bursts into a sea of blossoms.

　　Lihua Shoal: The island is covered with dense forests and lush flowers, embraced by green trees and vast reed beds, presenting a pristine natural landscape. The natural scenery here is exceptionally beautiful. In the near future, a multifunctional, comprehensive recreational area will become a reality.

　　Five Small Shoals (i.e., Populus Euphratica Island): Comprising five small islets with a total area of about 1,500 mu, they are surrounded by water, dotted with lush trees and blooming flowers, offering pleasant scenery. The islets are particularly famous for their tall, dense stands of Populus euphratica trees. The island has initially built various types of tourist facilities, including classic, modern, and ethnic-style structures, as well as more than ten cruise boats to meet visitors' needs for sightseeing, accommodation, and leisure.

　　Transportation

　　At Xiahaibuwan Town on the banks of the Yellow River in Haibowan District, Wuhai City, there is the Dayu Wharf, just 2 kilometers from the urban area. It takes less than half an hour to reach the scenic area by boat from the wharf. Large boats can accommodate 20–30 people at a cost of 100 yuan per hour per boat, while smaller boats hold 16 people at 80 yuan per hour. Additionally, there is another ferry on the west side of the train station, but those are all small wooden boats, which are generally cheaper than the larger ones.