Plan at a glance
Start with the wider story
The Xixia Imperial Tombs, also known as the Western Xia Imperial Tombs, lie at the eastern foot of the Helan Mountains. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2025, the site contains nine imperial mausoleums and 271 subordinate tombs, among other remains. These figures refer to the entire World Heritage property; visitors follow designated routes through the areas open to the public. National Highway 110 separates the archaeological area to the west from the visitor centre, museum, and other services to the east. Starting at the museum before heading to the tombs gives the visit a clearer thread.
Allow half a day
For a first visit, the Xixia Imperial Tombs Museum and Tomb No. 3 make a short route of about 2–3 hours. Add other sites or activities and allow half a day. If you want to include an immersive film or digital experience, plan for 4–5 hours. The museum and archaeological area are on opposite sides of the highway, so account for shuttle transfers and the day’s session times. Include time inside the museum, walking to the shuttle stop, and waiting for the return ride.
Tickets and visit details
View visit options for this attraction and confirm the visit date and current arrangements before you go.
Choose your visit
Visit the museum before Tomb No. 3
The museum’s permanent displays include *The History and Culture of the Western Xia* and *The Heritage Value of the Xixia Imperial Tombs*. They cover the kingdom’s history, the site’s heritage value, and its conservation. These themes provide useful context before you look at the tomb mound and surrounding terrain at Tomb No. 3. This is a good choice for first-time visitors who want a clear introduction; if you do not usually spend long in history museums, focus on the displays that interest you rather than trying to read every panel.
Add more tomb sites if they are open
Tomb No. 3 is the main stop in the archaeological area. If you also want to visit the Twin Tombs area, where Tombs No. 1 and 2 are located, first confirm that the visitor road has reopened. The site previously suspended access there during roadworks. Check the day’s route for Tomb No. 4 as well. Treat the other tomb areas as optional additions so they do not disrupt a visit centred on the museum and Tomb No. 3.
Include a digital experience
The scenic area’s suggested routes can include 3D or 4D films, VR and XR experiences, and a Western Xia wooden movable-type printing activity. These options suit visitors who have more time. Check the day’s session schedule, choose one or two activities that interest you, and leave enough time for the museum and archaeological area.
For a broader collection on the region’s history, visit Ningxia Museum.
Build your day
Ask at the visitor centre first
At the visitor centre on the east side, ask which tomb sites are open, where to board the shuttle, and what activity sessions are available. Set the museum and Tomb No. 3 as your main route, then add other sites or activities according to the day’s arrangements.
Go from the museum to the tomb area
For the short route, visit the museum, follow the scenic area’s signs to the designated shuttle stop, continue to Tomb No. 3, and take the shuttle back. Even a quick museum visit needs time for the exit and transfer. If you want to see the Twin Tombs area, ask whether it is open that day and where to board for the return trip. Confirm Tomb No. 4 separately, and keep Tomb No. 3 as the core of your plan. If you choose a film or guided tour, check its session time before arranging your return bus.
Check what each ticket covers
The scenic area offers a limited-time waiver of its standard admission ticket. From March 1 through October 31, 2026, standard admission is waived on Mondays except public holidays. From November 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027, the waiver applies on Mondays and Wednesdays except public holidays. The shuttle, films, VR, XR, and guided tours are not covered and require separate payment under the applicable ticket arrangements. Before travelling, verify the eligible dates, identification requirements, and whether the museum will be open that day.
Get there
Take a bus to the scenic area
Bus 708 runs to the scenic area from the west plaza of Yinchuan Railway Station. Tourist Route 1 connects Xinyue Square (新月广场) with the Xixia Imperial Tombs; it usually operates from April through October and is suspended from November through March. Timetables may change between peak and off-peak seasons, so check the day’s service and plan your return first.
Drive or take a ride-hailing car
Set your map destination to “西夏陵游客中心” (Western Xia Imperial Tombs Visitor Centre). The visitor centre and museum are in the service area east of National Highway 110. The scenic area’s car park has electric-vehicle charging. From the visitor centre, follow the signs to transfer to the shuttle for the tomb area.
Connect from the airport or railway station
From Yinchuan Hedong International Airport, you can take the airport rail service to Yinchuan Railway Station and connect to a scenic-area bus. The station’s west plaza is a boarding point for Bus 708. Tourist services and the last bus may change, so leave extra time when transferring between transport modes.
Know before you go
Check opening times and ticket-waiver dates
Opening times can change by season and management arrangements. Check the museum and archaeological area separately, including their last-entry times. Call 0951-5668966 and check the day’s notice and the last bus. Confirm the current ticket-waiver dates before your visit.
Prepare for an outdoor heritage site
The tomb area includes long stretches outdoors. Wear walking shoes, bring water, and prepare for sun and wind. Smoking is prohibited. Stay on open routes, do not cross barriers or touch the remains, and help protect the surrounding landscape.