A glimpse into the sea of sand, a millennium of lingering charm: An in-depth guide to Crescent Lake and Crescent Lake Town

Crescent Lake, located at the northern foot of Dunhuang's Mingsha Mountain, resembles a crescent moon and has remained dry for millennia. Its remarkable "symbiosis of sand and water" with the mountain is world-renowned. Visiting in the early morning or evening is recommended to avoid the midday heat. Visitors can climb Mingsha Mountain to watch the sunrise and sunset, ride camels across the dunes, and experience sandboarding and desert off-roading. The scenic area is open from 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM.

Adjacent to the scenic area is Crescent Lake Town, a cultural district with Han and Tang Dynasty influences. It offers free admission 24 hours a day. It features Northwest delicacies such as red willow barbecue and pao'er oil cakes, as well as shops showcasing replicas of Dunhuang murals and crafts like paper cutting. The town also features experience centers for paper cutting, clay sculpture, and sand painting, and often features dragon and lion dance performances at night. Staying in a guesthouse in the town is a 10-minute walk from Crescent Lake, making it convenient for morning and evening visits. Nearby attractions include the Dunhuang Museum and Shazhou Night Market, making for a convenient combination.

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