Dunhuang in Gansu Province is a place full of historical and cultural connotations as well as unique natural landscapes. It's a must-visit destination for your first trip to the northwest of China. Here's a comprehensive guide for you.
When to Go
The best time to visit Dunhuang is from May to October. The weather is relatively pleasant during this period, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the desert and various cultural landscapes. However, do note that the temperature difference between day and night is significant. The daytime is hot, but the nights are cool. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful trip, winter and spring can also be good choices. During these seasons, many scenic spots offer discounted tickets or even free admission, and you can have a better experience of the cultural heritage.
What to See
Mogao Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the "Oriental Louvre". It is a great art palace integrating ancient architecture, sculpture, and murals. With a history of over 1,600 years, it is the most complete and richest Buddhist art site in the world. There are thousands of Buddha statues and flying apsaras in the caves, which are of great artistic value. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance and choose the type A visit to first watch the theme movies at the digital exhibition center to understand the background knowledge of the Mogao Caves, and then take a shuttle bus to visit the actual caves.
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring: A natural wonder where the desert and a clear spring coexist. The Mingsha Mountain is made up of fine sand, and when you slide down from the top of the mountain, the sand under your feet will make a whirring sound. The Crescent Moon Spring, located at the northern foot of Mingsha Mountain, is curved like a crescent moon and has been known as the "First Spring in the Desert" for thousands of years. You can ride a camel to climb Mingsha Mountain and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Silk Road and the desert.
Yangguan Scenic Area: An ancient relic on the Gobi Desert with a long history. It was an important pass on the southern route of the Silk Road in ancient times. Standing here, you can feel the ancient and solemn atmosphere and recall the prosperity of the Silk Road.
Yadan National Geopark: Commonly known as the "Devil City", it is mainly a geological relic formed by wind erosion. The unique Yadan landforms here look like various shapes such as "streets", "castles", "warships" and "pyramids", which are both strange and spectacular. It is recommended to visit here in the afternoon or evening to enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Dunhuang Museum: It houses a large number of cultural relics from the Silk Road, such as the rare Qilin Brick. By visiting the museum, you can learn about the history and culture of Dunhuang in depth and have a better understanding of the ancient Silk Road civilization.
What to Eat
Local Flavors
Jingyuan Galiu Delicious Lamb: Many celebrities have visited this restaurant. The local folk dishes here are extremely delicious and the lamb is tender and juicy.
Fan's Jingyuan Lamb: It has a high reputation. The lamb is cooked in various ways and tastes delicious without any muttony smell.
Qixinglou Wood-fired Whole Lamb: Recommended on the national food list, its wood-fired whole lamb is the signature dish, with a rich and mellow flavor.
Special Snacks
Yang Laoqi Lamb Noodle Soup: It has won many food honors. The lamb noodle soup is delicious and unforgettable.
Shunzhang Yellow Noodle Restaurant: The yellow noodles here are very famous in the local area, with a unique flavor.
Liu Hongxing Apricot Peel Water: It has been certified as an intangible cultural heritage food. The hand-boiled apricot peel water is sweet and sour, very refreshing.
Bars
299 Motorcycle pub: The motorcycle elements in the bar echo the name of the store, and its special cocktails are widely praised.
Shishi Ice Room: It is a bar located in a bookstore, which allows you to have a better understanding of Dunhuang culture.
SuBar: With a stylish decoration style, it offers unique Dunhuang-flavored cocktails.
Where to Stay
Luxury Options
The Cyan Dunhuang: Rated 4.7, it has exquisite facilities and attentive design. The desert sunset dinner here is amazing. It is located at 12999 Jingguan Avenue, Qili Town.
Dongyi Dunhuang Hotel: Rated 4.8, it provides an extraordinary Dunhuang art and cultural experience. The hotel is spacious and beautiful, located at 1299 Huayu East Road, Yueyaquan Town.
Scenic View Stays
The Cyan Dunhuang: Besides the wonderful desert sunset dinner, it also offers a great view.
Dongyi Dunhuang Hotel: It's a great place for taking pictures, with a beautiful environment and a wide view.
Local Flavor Stays
Dunhuang Resort: Rated 4.7, it has a strong local flavor and a rich Western Regions style. It's near Mingsha Mountain on Dunyue Road.
Dunhuang International Hotel: Rated 4.7, it is a garden-style hotel with strong Dunhuang characteristics, located at 6610 Yangguan East Road.
Dunhuang Tianhe Hotel: Rated 4.6, it features a garden-style design with pear trees all over the garden. It's at 106 Mingshan Middle Road.
How to Get Around
By Air: Dunhuang has its own airport, and there are direct flights from many cities in China, such as Beijing, Xi'an and Lanzhou. This is the fastest way to get to Dunhuang, especially if you're short on time.
By Train: Traveling by train allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way and adjust your itinerary according to your needs. There are high-speed trains and regular trains available. You can check the train schedules and book tickets on the official website of China Railway.
Local Transportation: Taxis are readily available in Dunhuang City, which are convenient for short trips. If you want to visit scenic spots outside the city, such as the Yadan National Geopark, it is recommended to charter a car or join a tour group for easy travel.
In conclusion, Dunhuang is a place that combines rich historical and cultural heritage with unique natural scenery. Whether you're interested in history, culture or natural landscapes, you'll find something to enjoy here. Plan your trip carefully and get ready to embrace the beauty and mystery of Dunhuang. Have a wonderful journey!
