Dunhuang, a pearl on the ancient Silk Road, is a dream destination for countless travelers. Last year, the Northwest China circuit exploded in popularity. As someone who loves to follow trends, I embarked on a solo trip to Dunhuang earlier this year. With ample time on my hands, I spent three full days exploring this ancient city. I’m a practical traveler, so my guides are based on real experiences—I don’t write about places I haven’t visited. Having been there, I can now share a detailed and comprehensive guide.
My Impression of Dunhuang
One grain of sand, one world; one speck of dust, one Buddhist kingdom. A millennium in an instant, a thousand years in a single glance.
Dunhuang is a confluence of Central Plains culture, Buddhist culture, and influences from West and Central Asia. It holds endless historical chapters and breathtaking desert landscapes, living up to the meaning of its name: Dun (grand), Huang (prosperous).
As the "wharf of the Silk Road," Dunhuang's trilogy consists of the Gobi, desert, and camels. Here, you can witness the frontier scenery described in poetry: "A lone smoke rises straight above the vast desert, The sun sinks round above the endless river." You can see the symbiotic wonder of the Crescent Lake nestled amidst singing sand dunes, and marvel at the clay sculptures shaped by wind and time in the stony desert.
The area is steeped in history: Zhang Qian's missions to the West, Huo Qubing's campaigns against the Xiongnu, and Xuanzang's journey to India for Buddhist scriptures. Whether it's the 2000-year-old Mogao Caves, the timeless Yumen Pass, or the echoes of the Silk Road, Dunhuang deserves a visit in one's lifetime.
Must-Visit Attractions in Dunhuang
Most visitors only see the Mogao Caves and Singing Sand Mountain (Mingsha Shan). I visited those too, but with extra time, I explored several other remarkable sites.
1. Mogao Caves
The Mogao Caves felt like an "otherworldly marvel" in the desert. I was profoundly by this site, which spans 1653 years of history and embodies the wisdom of artisans across ten dynasties. I planned for 3 hours but ended up spending nearly 6 hours and 1000 RMB, leaving still wanting more.
2. Singing Sand Mountain & Crescent Lake
This desert oasis within Dunhuang city is a must for first-timers. Riding a camel (despite their distinctive smell) to the tune of desert bells is an iconic experience. Other activities include sand sliding, paragliding, and desert buggy rides. The highlight is climbing the dunes at sunset for a spectacular view over Crescent Lake.
Tips:
Shoe covers are unnecessary; bare feet work best for climbing.
Check sunset times in advance; consider sunrise for a different beauty.
Taxis within the city are cheap (~5 RMB); no need for buses.
Bring plenty of water; climbing is thirsty work.
Tickets require ID and are valid for 3 days.
"Dunhuang Feitian" photoshoots are popular but expensive (from 1500 RMB) and windy.
3. Yadan National Geological Park (Devil's City)
Located 185km from Dunhuang, this is a gateway on the ancient Silk Road. Wind erosion over eons has created stunning clay formations resembling castles and sculptures. It's also famed for its dramatic sunsets and starry skies.
Options:
Budget: Join a Western Line group tour (essentially a shared car) that includes Yumen Pass, Yangguan Pass, and others, ending at Yadan for the standard bus tour.
In-Depth: Self-drive or hire a private car. At the final bus stop ("West Sea Fleet"), you can hire a 4x4 (500 RMB for 4 people) to explore deeper, less-visited areas (South Line) with more freedom.
4. Yulin Caves
A "hidden gem" and sister site to Mogao, Yulin holds significant Tang to Yuan dynasty Buddhist art. Its (Western Xia) and Yuan dynasty murals are particularly unique.
Ticketing:
Standard Ticket (40 RMB): Covers 5 caves. Book 3 days in advance online or buy on-site in low season.
Special Cave Ticket: Purchased on-site only. Currently 4 special caves are open, priced individually (100-200 RMB each). Seeing all costs 550 RMB.
Tip: To see both standard and special caves, arrive before 2 PM. Consider a local day tour that includes Yulin, Xijin Tomb, and Suoyang City.
5. Xijin Tomb Mural Site
For fans of tomb exploration stories, this site is thrillingly "wild." Located in a cemetery, it features a 1700-year-old Western Jin dynasty noble couple's tomb. The murals (mythical beasts, scenes of life) are well-preserved, and you can see an actual, precise used by tomb raiders.
Address: Foyemiaowan, ~6km east of Dunhuang City
Ticket: 50 RMB
Worth-a-Look Attractions
1. Yumen Pass & Yangguan Pass
These famous frontier passes from poetry are now largely ruins in the vast. Their appeal lies heavily in historical imagination. If you're not deeply moved by the history, they might appear as mere "large dirt mounds."
2. Suoyang City
Once a vital Silk Road town, time has rendered it a desolate collection of crumbling walls in the Gobi,. The site's grandeur comes alive through a guide's narration.
3. 'The Child of the Earth' & 'Mirage' Sculptures
These modern art installations by Dong Shubing are seen on the road back from Yulin Caves. "The Child of the Earth" is a giant sleeping baby sculpture, while "Mirage" is a complex lattice structure. They create a striking contrast against the desert backdrop.
Getting Around Dunhuang
1. Getting to Dunhuang
By Air: Dunhuang Airport has flights from major cities like Lanzhou (sometimes as low as 200 RMB).
By Train: High-speed trains and tourist sleeper trains are available. The Y667 tourist sleeper from Lanzhou (via Zhangye, Jiayuguan) is highly recommended for its comfort, scenery (Qilian Mountains, Gobi), and unique experience.
By Road: Highways provide good access.
2. Getting to Attractions
Mogao Caves & Singing Sand Mountain: Taxi is best (affordable, ~35 RMB & ~8 RMB from downtown respectively).
Other Sites (Yadan, Yulin, etc.): Self-driving, private car hire, or (carpooling) are almost essential due to distances. Local day tours (West Line, East Line) offer good value.
Where to Stay in Dunhuang
Choose based on convenience:
Best Area: Around Shazhou Night Market / Downtown. Central, great for food, easy taxi access.
Good Alternative: Residential areas south of the market, near the "BBQ street."
Consider Carefully: Areas across the Dang River, though some newer hotels are located here.
Recommendations:
Upscale: Dunhuang Wansheng International Hotel. Central, luxurious, excellent service.
Comfortable:
Vienna Hotel (Dunhuang Gov't Square): Convenient location, parking, laundry facilities.
Jinjiang Inn Premium (Dunhuang Miao Street): By the Dang River, near local eateries.
What to Eat in Dunhuang
Dunhuang cuisine might seem simple—noodles and meat—but it carries millennia of flavor. Don't miss:
Dunhuang Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles in various soups.
Yangrou Paomo: Crumbled bread in mutton stew.
Shaokao (BBQ): Especially on the dedicated BBQ street.
Dunhuang Snacks: Like sweet pastries.
Suggested Dunhuang Itinerary
Day 1: Dunhuang Classics
Sunrise at Singing Sand Mountain & Crescent Lake
Explore Mogao Caves (book tickets well in advance!)
Evening: Watch "See Dunhuang Again" theatrical performance (optional) or visit Shazhou Night Market
Day 2: The Western Line Adventure
Self-drive/Join Tour: Dunhuang Ancient City (photo-op), West Thousand Buddha Caves, Yangguan Pass, Yumen Pass, Han Dynasty Great Wall, Hecang City ruins.
Sunset at Yadan National Geological Park (Devil's City).
Return to Dunhuang late or stay nearby.
Day 3: The Eastern Line & Beyond
Visit the Xijin Tomb Mural Site.
Drive to Yulin Caves (explore standard & special caves).
Stop at Suoyang City ruins.
See the 'Child of the Earth' and 'Mirage' sculptures on the return drive.
Final evening at Shazhou Night Market for souvenirs and food.
Final Bonus Tip
Dunhuang is dry and sunny. Pack sunscreen, lip balm, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Respect the fragile environment and cultural relics. Most importantly, come with curiosity about the incredible history woven into this desert landscape.
Enjoy your journey through time in Dunhuang!
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