Shahu Lake sits about 30 kilometres south of Shizuishan, a shallow wetland in the transition zone between the irrigated Yellow River floodplain and the desert of the Helan Mountains. The lake is unusual — perhaps unique in China — for containing a large sandy island that rises from the water, giving visitors the improbable combination of reed beds, open water, and desert dunes within a single panorama. A boat ferry from the shore takes visitors to the island.
The lake is a significant stopover for migratory birds along the East Asian Australasian Flyway. Spring and autumn bring large flocks of cranes, geese, and waders. In summer the reed beds fill with breeding waterfowl. The resort infrastructure is extensive by Chinese standards: the entrance fee covers the ferry, and additional activities include camel riding on the dune, a chairlift, parasailing, and inflatable raft rides. It is a popular Chinese domestic destination and can be crowded at weekends and during the National Day holiday in October.
For those who prefer a quieter experience, the bird-watching is best in the early morning before the resort activities begin. Admission is around 90 yuan. A morning visit combined with the Helan Mountain petroglyphs to the north makes a reasonable day trip from Yinchuan.