Sheepskin Raft Ride on the Yellow River

The sheepskin raft, or yangpi fazi, is a traditional Yellow River watercraft made from inflated whole sheep or goat hides lashed beneath a wooden frame, and at Shapotou visitors can ride one across or along a stretch of the river beneath the Tengger Desert dunes. The activity requires no rafting experience or particular fitness, since routes are calm crossings or short downstream floats rather than white-water paddling, making it accessible to most ages, though small children should wear a properly fitted life jacket throughout. The Shapotou Scenic Area's Yellow River activity zone supplies the raft, an oarsman who does the paddling, and a life jacket for every rider; visitors should bring quick-dry clothing and a waterproof bag for phones or cameras, since spray and the occasional splash are routine. The rafts are operated by staff of Shapotou Scenic Area's river zone, who handle the traditional hide-and-frame craft daily and are experienced with the river's currents at this stretch, guiding rafts to and from designated launch and landing points near the dune base. Life jackets are mandatory and checked before departure, and a rescue boat is typically stationed nearby for the longer downstream routes; riders are asked to remain seated and follow the oarsman's instructions rather than lean over the frame. The river program runs from April to October, when water levels and staffing support full service; it is not offered in the coldest winter months, when the river current and cold-water risk make the activity unsuitable. Warm, dry spring and autumn days are considered the most comfortable for the ride, while riders should expect firm sun exposure without shade on the water in midsummer.