Xining

Xining is the capital of Qinghai Province in northwestern China. It serves as the province’s political, economic, and cultural center. The city lies in the Huangshui River valley on the northeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, and it hosts a diverse population that includes Han Chinese, Hui, Tibetans, and other ethnic groups.

Xining sits at high elevation in a semi-arid, continental climate. Winters are cold and summers are warm, with most rainfall occurring in the summer months. The city experiences a notable diurnal temperature variation and clear skies for much of the year, reflecting its high-altitude inland location.

Historically a key stop on inland trade routes, Xining developed as a regional hub linking central China with the Tibetan region and Central Asia. The area around the city includes important Buddhist sites such as Ta’er Monastery (Kumbum) near Huangyuan, a major Gelugpa center also known for its rich religious and cultural heritage.

Xining is a transportation hub, served by Xining Caojiapu International Airport and a major railway network. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects Xining with Golmud and Lhasa. The city is a focal point for Qinghai’s industries, including energy, petrochemicals, light manufacturing, and agriculture, as well as tourism and commerce.

Educational institutions in Xining include Qinghai University, along with several colleges and research institutes. The city also hosts cultural institutions and museums reflecting its multiethnic heritage.