Nanshan Park sits on the southern hillside above Xining, a tree-covered ridge with walking paths, pavilions, and views over the city and the Huangshui River valley. It is the most accessible green space for residents of central Xining and a pleasant hour's walk from the main commercial streets. The park is most animated in the early mornings when retired residents perform tai chi and other exercises on the terraced areas, and in the evenings when families walk.
The ridge above the park gives wide views north over the city, with the silhouette of Tulou Mountain (site of the Northern Mountain Temple) visible across the valley. The park contains a small Daoist temple and several teahouses that serve the local eight-treasure tea. Free entry; reachable on foot from the city centre in about 20 minutes.