There has been a pagoda on the site of the Haibao Pagoda (also known as the Sea Treasure Pagoda) for over one and a half thousand years. The earliest known structure was built in the fifth century AD, apparently to replace a former structure that was- like all the others after it - destroyed by earthquake.
The existing pagoda has survived for over 200 years, since its restoration in 1799: it's now one of the highlights in the Ningxia region and features in the list of the 16 finest pagodas in China.
The brick-built Pagoda has 9 tapering tiers, on the top of which is a large green ''peach'' covered in green glaze bricks. The main body of the pagoda is crafted from grey brick in a traditional square pavilion-style. Each square story contains a square chamber at its center, around which the wooden stairs curl. By climbing 11 flights to the top (9 stories plus base and pedestal) visitors can look east to the Yellow River and west to Helan Mountain, taking in two of the most majestic sights China has to offer. Wind chimes dotted over the pavilion provide gentle sounds to delight visitors.
Getting there: take a taxi from Yinchuan downtown area (price is RMB 10 at most)
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