"Where to go in Dunhuang" niche treasure recommendations～Celebrity photo spots

"Where to go in Dunhuang" niche treasure recommendations: Having been to Dunhuang many times, I wanted to find some lesser-known, less crowded "scenes" for photography (I've already visited Mingsha Mountain, Mogao Caves, etc.).

❶ Dunhuang Cultural and Museum Park: A celebrity photo shoot location～A hidden poplar forest secret in the desert～Vast desert, endless sea of sand! In Dunhuang Cultural and Museum Park, a winding path paved with 30,000 stone millstones stretches out, symbolizing the transition from agricultural civilization to nomadic civilization. Above the desert, the poplar trees have twisted roots, giving off a bizarre exotic artistic vibe; every shot looks like a fashion magazine spread! 470 poplar trees proudly stand on the sand dunes, overlooking the distant Mingsha Mountain and Sanwei Mountain; 13 museums of various shapes are located here, narrating the civilization of Dunhuang and China. PS: It is very close to our hotel "Gamman Wanda Wenhua Hotel" and within walking distance.

❷ Dunhuang Silk Road Cultural Heritage City: A perfect place for photos～A secret ancient city hidden on the Silk Road, a Song Dynasty-style ancient city. Walking here feels like traveling back a thousand years, with exquisite buildings lined up, every brick and tile telling stories of the past. There are no bustling crowds, only a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Inside the scenic area, you don’t need to take the shuttle bus; after entering the gate, walk straight and then to the left to reach the photo spot on foot; the main attraction is a miniature landscape, completely outdoors, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun.

❸ Guazhou Sculpture Group (Sons of the Earth, Han and Chu Heroic Spirit, Boundless): A large sculpture group on the Gobi Desert in Guazhou County, Gansu Province, created by Tsinghua University professor Dong Shubing. A must-visit for drone enthusiasts, perfect for flying drones with amazing bird’s-eye views! ① "Sons of the Earth" is made of red sandstone pieced and carved, created through 3D modeling and digital technology, then assembled on site. The sculpture depicts a baby lying on the earth, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature, expressing reverence for life and land. ② "Han Wu Heroic Spirit" shows Emperor Wu of Han overlooking the Gobi Desert, with six stones beneath representing the four Hexi commanderies and two passes, showcasing the grandeur of the Han and Tang dynasties. This long history is presented to us in such a powerful and stunning way. ③ "Boundless" is built from pure white giant steel structures, resembling a mirage on the Gobi. Inspired by the mural "Contemplating the Infinite Life Sutra" in Cave 25 of Yulin Caves, it uses visual language to convey the millennium-long spirit and civilization of the Silk Road to the world, expressing our yearning for a beautiful life.

Post by DAVIS GARZA | Aug 28, 2025