Endless Summer Bliss in Dunhuang!

Where to go in Dunhuang?

What to play in Dunhuang?

What to eat in Dunhuang?

If you don't know, read on and the editor will tell you!

Where to go in Dunhuang

Mingsha Mountain · Crescent Moon Spring

When mentioning Dunhuang, most people think of the Mogao Caves, but if you want to have fun, the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring scenic area is the top choice. Here you'll see rolling sand dunes stretching endlessly—enough sand to keep you entertained!

Among the Eight Scenic Sights of Dunhuang, this place boasts two: "Clear Sounding Sand Ridge" and "Crescent Moon Spring's Dawn Clarity." Throughout history, the wonders of "mountains and springs coexisting, sand and water symbiosis" have attracted countless Chinese and foreign visitors. It's truly a must-see in Dunhuang.

The world-famous Mogao Caves are a vibrant art corridor. Their existence gives Dunhuang an incomparably precious and profound cultural heritage.

The Mogao Caves were first built during the Former Qin period of the Sixteen Kingdoms and expanded over the subsequent Sixteen Kingdoms, reaching a massive scale. Because many caves are painted with thousands of Buddha images, they are also called the "Thousand Buddha Caves." One of the Eight Sights, "Thousand Buddha Grottoes," refers to this place.

Sanwei Mountain

Sanwei Mountain's main peak sits opposite the Mogao Caves. It is named for its three towering peaks.

Most visitors to Dunhuang have never been to Sanwei Mountain. Don't think it's not a famous site—"Soaring East Peak" ranks first among the Eight Sights. The mountain features the Queen Mother Palace, Laojun Hall, Southern Heavenly Gate, Guanyin Well, and a large bronze Buddha. It is said that the monk Le Zun saw the Buddha's light here and began carving the first cave. Sanwei Mountain can be considered the cradle of the Mogao Caves.

Dang River

Dang River is the mother river of the Dunhuang people, nourishing the Dunhuang oasis. "Dang River Flowing North" vividly describes this mother river, which waters everything on this land. Everyone knows the Dang River scenic promenade within Dunhuang city, but few know about the Dang River Grand Canyon. Traversing the Dang River Grand Canyon is also recommended for your experience.

Yumen Pass and Yang Pass

These were two major strategic passes in ancient Dunhuang. All traffic between the Central Plains and the Western Regions passed through these two passes. They were key arteries on the Silk Road. "Relics of the Two Passes" witness Dunhuang's rise and fall.

Yumen Pass was first established when Emperor Wu of Han opened the route to the Western Regions and set up the four commanderies of Hexi. It got its name from the jade brought in from the Western Regions passing through it.

Yang Pass was an important land route for China's foreign trade in ancient times, a must-pass on the southern Silk Road. It was built during the Western Han, south of Yumen Pass.

Dunhuang Yardang Landform

Dunhuang's Yardang landform is part of the ancient Lop Nur. After geological changes and wind erosion, it has formed a spectacular and unique landscape. Walking into the Dunhuang Yardang landform feels like entering a natural sculpture museum. Inside the Yardang, when the wind blows, eerie sounds resemble ghosts. Traveling at night, one might get lost. Locals commonly call the Yardang "Devil City."

What to play in Dunhuang

Though Dunhuang is not large, you will never feel bored here. As long as you want, we can play anywhere!

Play in nature: Desert camping, off-road crossing, hiking study tours, sand sliding, gliders, helicopters

Play on the streets: Shazhou Night Market, Dang River scenic promenade, Yuequan Town, Dunhuang Town, Snack Street

Cultivate the mind: Dunhuang Museum, Dunhuang Library, Dunhuang Cultural Center, Wenbo Conference Center, watch various Dunhuang art performances

What to eat in Dunhuang?

Foodies never need too much background on delicious food—just look at the pictures! (Even if my pictures don't make your mouth water, you should still try it. Absolutely!)

Where to eat in Dunhuang?

Of course, at Shazhou Night Market!!!

This summer vacation, bring your kids! Bring your parents! Bring your besties! Bring your dorm buddies! Come to Dunhuang and have fun~