Yinchuan, known also as the "Phoenix City," is the capital and political, economic and cultural center of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in north-central China. It has a population of nearly 1.3 million and is home to some 350,000 people of the Hui ethnic group.

Founded in 678 C.E., the 1,300-year-old city is one of China's 99 most well known ancient cities. Yinchuan lies in the central section of the Ningxia Plain, with the Yellow River to its east and the Helan Mountain to its west. It enjoys a dry climate with abundant sunshine.

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