[2025 Xining Hotels] Travel Guide for Xingmei Hotel (Xining Hailu Wanda Plaza Sports Center) (Updated Jul)

Before setting foot on this mysterious land, I had seen countless photos of the Water Yadan online, and my heart longed for it. Yet, it wasn't until I arrived in person that I realized the breathtaking beauty far exceeded my imagination. As soon as I stepped off the vehicle, the overwhelming magnificence of the scene held me spellbound. The ochre-colored Yadan formations stood scattered across the sapphire-blue lake, resembling a fleet ready to set sail—majestic and extraordinary. Each formation had a unique shape: some looked like sailboats braving the waves, ready to venture into the distance; others resembled ancient, imposing castles silently narrating tales of time; and some appeared as mysterious, lurking beasts poised to soar into the sky. Under the sunlight, the shimmering lake complemented the Yadan formations, creating a stunning tableau. Strolling along the lakeshore, a gentle breeze carried the faint scent of the water. Squatting close to the edge, I could see the crystal-clear lake revealing its sandy bottom and salt crystals. In the distance, the rolling mountains met the blue sky and white clouds, forming a natural backdrop that added tranquility and grandeur to this unique landscape. Within the scenic area, visitors wandered around, busy capturing the beauty. I was no exception, unable to resist pressing the shutter at every turn, hoping to preserve this awe-inspiring sight forever. Along the way, I also spotted rare birds frolicking and foraging on the water's surface, bringing vitality to this serene land. Climbing up to the observation deck, I gazed down at the entire Water Yadan. The view was even more spectacular. The Yadan formations intertwined with the lake, creating a distinctive water world. I couldn't help but marvel at nature's craftsmanship, capable of creating such a wondrous landscape. This journey to the Water Yadan was not only a feast for the eyes but also a cleansing of the soul. Here, I felt the greatness of nature and the insignificance of humanity. It reminded me that there are countless unknown beauties in life waiting to be discovered. In the future, I hope to embark on more explorations and encounter more of these earthly paradises.

Qinghai, like a kind and nurturing mother, cradles this magical land in her vast embrace. Here, every river and mountain tells a captivating story. Standing by Qinghai Lake, you’ll be awestruck by the endless expanse of blue. The gentle waves lap against the shore, as if singing an ancient melody. In summer, golden fields of rapeseed flowers surround the lake, their fragrance carried by the breeze, tempting you to open your arms and embrace the beauty. Visitors eagerly snap photos, hoping to capture the scene forever, but no camera can truly convey the emotions it stirs within. Chaka Salt Lake resembles a giant mirror, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. Walking barefoot on the salt flats, the cool and soft texture is a unique sensation. The little train clatters along, as if transporting you to a fairytale world. Time seems to slow down here, allowing you to relax and unwind. Driving along Qinghai’s roads, every turn reveals a picturesque view. Verdant grasslands stretch out like a carpet, dotted with flocks of sheep grazing leisurely, resembling pearls scattered across the green. The melodious songs of herders drift through the air, mingling with the aroma of milk tea. Looking up, snow-capped mountains glisten in the sunlight, while eagles soar freely in the blue sky. In the wetland parks, the water ripples gently, and aquatic plants sway with the waves. Flocks of migratory birds skim the water’s surface or rest along the shores. The lakes, large and small, sparkle like scattered gems under the sun. Breathing here feels exceptionally refreshing, encouraging you to slow down and savor the rare tranquility. In Qinghai, the most beautiful sights often appear unexpectedly. It might be a snow-capped mountain suddenly coming into view around a corner, the innocent smile of a Tibetan child you meet by chance, or the smoke rising from a herder’s tent at dusk. These simple yet heartwarming moments are the true essence of Qinghai’s charm. Chaka Salt Lake – Photo by Wang Ninggang Kanbula – Photo by Ji Guangxiu Qilian Mountains – Photo by Su Jinyuan Lancang River’s Eighteen Bends – Photo by Qiega In Hoh Xil – Photo by Kendekeke Jiao Shengfu

The 2025 Xining Half Marathon will start at 07:30 on June 29th [with detailed route map included]. For participants traveling to Xining from other cities, how to choose convenient and comfortable hotels? Yoyo has prepared a recommended list for participants, covering five-star, four-star, three-star, and budget hotels, making it easy for participants to choose according to their needs! Let's take a look! ✨ Xining Boliyabu Hotel 🏨【Address】19F, Building 5, 130 Xiguan Street, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Late checkout until 16:00; Complimentary room upgrade ✨ Xining Qaidam International Hotel 🏨【Address】Building 9, 66 Wusi West Road, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Complimentary nutritious breakfast for guests without breakfast package (must be consumed on-site, no takeaway); Late checkout until 15:00; Mineral water and disposable wet towels provided ✨ Meihao Hotel (Xining Haihu New District Branch) 🏨【Address】1F, Block D, Jinzuo Tangdao 637 Commercial Street, 130 Xiguan Street, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Free pre-race special breakfast for participants (high-protein, high-energy foods including beef, chicken legs, milk, eggs, and bread); Free post-race wonton supper for all finishers; Exclusive services: dedicated check-in channel for participants, fruit platter with yogurt energy pack, early breakfast service from 7:00, late checkout until 16:00; Sports equipment and fitness tracker; Complimentary room upgrade ✨ Qinghai Jinjiang International Hotel 🏨【Address】71 Haiyan Road, Chengxi District ✨ Xining Haihu New District Intercity Hotel 🏨【Address】Building 2, 22 Wenjing Street, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Sports towel; Late checkout until 16:00; Free breakfast: nutritious breakfast provided for guests without breakfast package, breakfast service available as early as 6:00; Complimentary room upgrade ✨ Xining Haihu New District Mercure Hotel 🏨【Address】66 Wusi West Road, Chengxi District ✨ Yilong Anyun Hotel (Xining Haihu Wanda Tangdao Branch) 🏨【Address】1F, Building 9, Jinzuo Meilun Plaza, 130 Xiguan Street, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Free breakfast; Complimentary room upgrade ✨ Xiyu Yazhu Hotel (Xining Haihu Wanda Branch) 🏨【Address】5F, 91 Wusi West Road, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Local specialty foods: yak jerky, highland barley crisps, sweet fermented barley, etc.; Complimentary room upgrade ✨ Xingmei Hotel (Xining Haihu Wanda Plaza Sports Center Branch) 🏨【Address】Building 19 West, Antai Tower, 71 Wusi West Road, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Late checkout/early check-in: late checkout until 16:00, early check-in (up to 4 hours in advance); Free breakfast: nutritious breakfast provided for guests without breakfast package or early breakfast service ✨ September Holiday Hotel (Xining Haihu Wanda Plaza Branch) 🏨【Address】Floors 5-6, Block B, Xining Wanda SOHO Apartments, 76 Xichuan South Road, Chengxi District ✨ Mengling Quality Hotel (Haihu New District Wanda Plaza Branch) 🏨【Address】17F, SOHO Block A, 76 Xichuan South Road, Wenhui Road Street, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Late checkout/early check-in: late checkout until 16:00, early check-in (up to 4 hours in advance) ✨ Huayi Hotel (Xining Haihu New District Wanda Plaza Branch) 🏨【Address】3F, Building 2, 49-1 Xichuan South Road, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Late checkout/early check-in: late checkout until 16:00, early check-in (up to 4 hours in advance) ✨ Tuan Hotel (Xining Wanda Plaza Branch) 🏨【Address】21F, Block A, Wanda Plaza SOHO Apartments, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Late checkout/early check-in: late checkout until 16:00, early check-in (up to 4 hours in advance) ✨ Baihua Hotel (Xining Haihu Wanda Plaza Branch) 🏨【Address】Sushang Tower, 5 Wenyuan Road, Haihu New District, Chengxi District 🧡【Extra Benefits】Late checkout/early check-in: late checkout until 16:00, early check-in (up to 4 hours in advance) 【Note: All benefits are only available during the event period】 ✨Half Marathon Route (21.0975km) South Gate of Qinghai Sports Center (Start) → Wusi West Road (counterflow) → Wenyuan Road (with flow) → Xiguan Street (with flow) → Wenbo Road (full width) → Wenjing Street (full width) → Wusi West Road (with flow) → Wusi Street (with flow) → Huanghe Road (with flow) → Qiyi West Road (full width) → Xiushui Road (full width) → Haiyan Road (with flow) → Turnaround Point (Haiyan Road) → Haiyan Road (with flow) → Jingyuan Road (full width) → Wusi West Road (counterflow) → South Gate of Qinghai Sports Center (Finish) ✨Fun Run Route Description (5km) South Gate of Qinghai Sports Center (Start) → Wusi West Road (counterflow) → Wenhui Road (counterflow) → Haiyan Road (counterflow) → Tonghai Road (with flow) → East Gate of Qinghai Sports Center (Finish)