Life advice: You must visit Dunhuang at least once in your lifetime

Hi～I’m Senyu, a travel lover.
In the autumn of 2025, I finally arrived in Dunhuang.
This trip to Dunhuang was wonderful.
I finally checked off all the travel spots around Dunhuang.
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👇Here are the 4 must-visit attractions in Dunhuang. If it’s your first time traveling to Dunhuang, be sure to check them out.
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✅【Must-Visit Attractions】
❶ Yangguan Ruins
The "Western Gate" of Dunhuang and an important pass on the Silk Road. Standing before the ruins, you can almost hear the camel bells from a thousand years ago. At sunset, Yangguan is stunning as the golden sun shines on the earth-colored city walls, leaving you speechless. Must-shoot spots: city gate ruins, beacon tower, sunset silhouettes.

❷ Son of the Earth Sculpture
A giant baby sculpture in the desert, lying on the Gobi Desert, with a strong visual impact! It is carved from red sandstone and symbolizes harmony between humans and nature. Whether shooting from afar or up close, you can capture breathtaking shots. Best time to shoot: sunrise or sunset.

❸ Xuanquanzhi Ruins
An important Han Dynasty relay station, where documents were passed and horses changed on the Silk Road. Many bamboo slip artifacts have been unearthed here, full of historical significance. Walking through the ruins, you can feel the weight of time and the vicissitudes of history. A must-visit for history enthusiasts.

❹ Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
Dunhuang’s iconic landscape! On one side are the rolling Mingsha Dunes, and on the other is the crescent-shaped Crescent Spring. The rare sight of desert and clear spring coexisting is breathtaking. Ride camels, slide down the dunes, watch the sunset—this place fulfills all your desert fantasies at once. 🌙 At night, you can stargaze in the desert and enjoy the "Ten Thousand Stars" concert.
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🚗【Transportation Guide】
🔹It’s recommended to charter a car or carpool from Dunhuang city to the attractions.
🔹Yangguan, Son of the Earth, and Xuanquanzhi Ruins can be arranged for a one-day west line tour.
🔹Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring are close to the city, about a 20-minute taxi ride.
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🏨【Accommodation Recommendations】
1️⃣ City hotels: Convenient for visiting attractions, with many dining options.
2️⃣ Characteristic guesthouses: Experience Dunhuang’s cultural atmosphere and get great photos.
3️⃣ Desert camping: Stargaze and experience desert life (best in summer).
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📌【Other Tips】
❶ Dunhuang has strong UV rays, remember to use sunscreen and bring hats and sunglasses.
❷ It’s best to visit Mingsha Mountain in the late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the sunset.
❸ Spring and autumn have comfortable weather and are the best travel seasons.
❹ Attractions are far apart, so plan your itinerary in advance.