Plan a 7-day, 6-night trip around Qinghai and Dunhuang.

Here is a suggested itinerary for a 7-day trip to Qinghai and Dunhuang, focusing on historical architecture and local cuisine:

Day 1: Arrival in Xining, acclimatization
• Morning: Arrive in Xining, check into the hotel, and acclimate to the high altitude.
• Afternoon: Explore Xining city, visit Dongguan Mosque to learn about Islamic culture.
• Dinner: Enjoy Xining's local delicacies such as hand-pulled mutton, yogurt, and Gami noodles.

Day 2: Xining to Qinghai Lake, experience natural beauty
• Morning: Head to Qinghai Lake (Erhai Sword Scenic Area) and enjoy the view of China's largest saltwater lake.
• Lunch: Have a local fisherman's meal by the lake, tasting Qinghai Lake fish.
• Afternoon: Visit Chaka Salt Lake and experience the unique charm of the 'Mirror of the Sky.'
• Night: Stay in Chaka.

Day 3: Chaka to Dachaidan
• Morning: Drive to Dachaidan, visit the Keluke-Tuosu Lake Nature Reserve along the way.
• Afternoon: Explore the Emerald Lake in Dachaidan and enjoy the tranquility of the salt lake.
• Dinner: Try Mongolian cuisine in Dachaidan.

Day 4: Dachaidan to Dunhuang, experience the Gobi Desert
• All day: Cross the Qaidam Basin, enjoy the Gobi Desert scenery, and stop for photos along the way.
• Evening: Arrive in Dunhuang, check into the hotel, explore the Dunhuang night market, and taste local specialties such as roasted whole lamb and donkey meat yellow noodles.

Day 5: Deep tour of Dunhuang, historical architecture
• Morning: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Mogao Caves (book tickets online in advance).
• Afternoon: Explore Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, experience camel riding and sand sliding.
• Evening: Watch the performance 'Encore Dunhuang' to learn more about Dunhuang's history and culture.

Day 6: Dunhuang to Jiayuguan, the starting point of the Great Wall
• Morning: Drive to Jiayuguan, visit the Jiayuguan Fortress to learn about the western end of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall.
• Afternoon: Head to Zhangye, stop in Guazhou to taste local specialties such as honeydew melon.
• Night: Stay in Zhangye, enjoy local dishes such as 'Cuoyu' and 'Chao Bula' for dinner.

Day 7: Zhangye to Xining, Rainbow Mountains and grassland scenery
• Morning: Visit Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park and marvel at the natural wonders.
• Afternoon: Pass through Qilian Mountain Grassland, view Gangshika Snow Peak (seasonal), and experience Tibetan culture.
• Evening: Return to Xining, end of the trip.

Notes:
1. Booking: Mogao Caves tickets need to be booked online in advance, especially during peak season.
2. Climate and health: Qinghai has a high altitude, be aware of altitude sickness.
3. Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car or join a local tour group for a smooth trip.
4. Food exploration: Choose restaurants with good hygiene and high ratings to ensure food safety.

I hope this itinerary makes your family's trip to Qinghai and Dunhuang both fulfilling and enjoyable!