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The Dunhuang Museum is a rich cultural destination, showcasing the historical and artistic heritage of Dunhuang and the surrounding region. Here are some recommended activities:
The Dunhuang Museum was founded in 1979, and the new building was completed in 2011. Occupying 16,000 square meters of land, it is rectangular in shape, 129 meters from east to west and 100 meters from north to south. It has two floors and stands 24 meters tall. Designed by Cui Kai, a renowned architect from the China Architecture Design & Research Institute, the building's exterior blends cultural symbols such as the Great Wall, beacon towers, and ancient castles, creating a beautiful, dignified, and elegant building.
The Dunhuang Museum is responsible for the collection, publicity, management, investigation, and maintenance of cultural relics throughout the city. It is a comprehensive museum that integrates cultural relic protection, research, collection, collection, and display. It has standard cultural relic warehouses and exhibition halls, and exhibits more than 1,000 cultural relics. It was listed as one of the first museums in Gansu Province to be opened to the public free of charge in 2008.
Most of Dunhuang has a temperate continental climate, characterized by dry weather, little rainfall, high evaporation, large temperature differences between day and night, and long sunshine hours.
The four seasons here are distinct: warm and windy spring, scorching hot summer, cool autumn and cold winter.
The new museum covers an area of 7,500 square meters and features exhibition halls, a cultural relic storage room, a screening room, and a lounge. Themed "A City Where Chinese and Chinese Meet," it comprises six exhibition halls. With comprehensive facilities and comprehensive functions, the museum serves as an important window for promoting Dunhuang culture and showcasing its ancient civilization, and also serves as a significant research base for Dunhuang studies.
Tickets are free, just register your ID card
Summer (May 1st to September 30th, 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (last admission at 5:30 p.m.), closed on Mondays;
Winter season (October 1st to April 30th of each year), 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:00 p.m.). Closed on Mondays.
The Dunhuang Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Dunhuang, an ancient city that lies along the northern edge of the Taklamakan Desert. Known for its proximity to the Mogao Caves, Dunhuang is a key site along the ancient Silk Road. The museum highlights the rich Buddhist heritage, showcasing art and relics from the region, particularly from the Tang Dynasty. It serves as a hub for both historical study and cultural preservation.
The Dunhuang Museum is located in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, China. The best way to get there is by taking a taxi or bus from the city center. Dunhuang does not have a metro system, so a taxi is the most convenient option. Alternatively, if you're staying in nearby hotels, you can walk if they are close by.
The Dunhuang Museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry around 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild. Avoid the summer months as it can get hot in the region, and holidays may attract more visitors.
The entrance fee to the Dunhuang Museum is generally around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the museum, and there is no need for online booking in advance. However, for special exhibitions, there may be additional fees.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary for the Dunhuang Museum. You can buy tickets on-site, but if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or if there is a special exhibition, it’s a good idea to check availability ahead of time.
A typical visit to the Dunhuang Museum will take around 2 to 3 hours. This will give you enough time to explore the main exhibition halls, view the outdoor exhibits, and attend any special events or programs.
The must-see highlights include:
Guided tours are available at the Dunhuang Museum, with tour guides speaking Mandarin. Some guides may speak English, but it is advisable to request one in advance if needed. Audio guides in English are also available for rent, providing detailed explanations of the exhibits.
The best photography spots include:
A recommended itinerary is to start by exploring the main exhibition halls focusing on the Silk Road and Buddhist artifacts. Afterward, visit the outdoor replica structures and the desert-inspired areas. If time permits, you can also attend any ongoing special exhibitions or talks.
The Dunhuang Museum does not offer night visits or light shows. However, during certain festivals, there may be special exhibitions or events in the evenings. It’s best to check the museum's schedule for any special offerings during your visit.
The Dunhuang Museum is not typically overcrowded, but it can get busy during holidays or tourist seasons. Weekdays, especially in the mornings, tend to be less crowded. Avoid visiting during national holidays or major cultural festivals when more tourists are likely to be in the area.
The Dunhuang Museum offers basic facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and a small café where you can buy drinks and snacks. There is also a gift shop selling local handicrafts, books, and souvenirs related to the exhibits.
The museum is accessible to elderly visitors and children, with ramps and elevators available for those with mobility challenges. The main exhibition areas are spacious and easy to navigate, though the outdoor replica structures may require some walking and may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
Both cash and mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) are accepted at the Dunhuang Museum. Credit cards may also be accepted in some cases, especially for the gift shop and café.
Inside the museum, there is a small café offering drinks and snacks. For more dining options, you can find restaurants and cafés in the nearby Dunhuang city center, offering local dishes and international cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants near the museum. For vegan or halal food, you can find suitable options in Dunhuang city, where there are a number of eateries catering to different dietary preferences.
There are a variety of hotels near the Dunhuang Museum, ranging from budget hostels to more luxurious options. Some popular choices include the Dunhuang Hotel, Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel, and several guesthouses offering close access to the museum and the city’s attractions.
Nearby attractions include:
The museum’s gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including books on Dunhuang’s history and art, miniature replicas of the Mogao Caves sculptures, traditional local crafts, and silk products.
The best options to continue your trip are to take a taxi or bus back to Dunhuang city center. From there, you can easily catch a train or bus to other destinations within Gansu or the surrounding regions.
