Things to do in Dunhuang

Activities, attractions and tours

A rooftop view of the sand dunes and Gobi Desert in the distance.
A rooftop view of the sand dunes and Gobi Desert in the distance.
Each grotto in the caves were decorated by a separate beneficiary. As a gift to Buddha.
Crescent Moon Spring, Dunhuang, China
Camel ride at Mingshashan, Dunhuang, China
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What to do in Dunhuang

Popular places to visit

Each grotto in the caves were decorated by a separate beneficiary. As a gift to Buddha.

Mogao Caves

After visiting Mogao Caves, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dunhuang. Amble around the area's forest or experience its museums.

Mogao Caves

Xiqian Buddha Caves

You can find out about the history of Dunhuang with a stop at Xiqian Buddha Caves. Wander the parks or discover the area's desert landscape.

Xiqian Buddha Caves

Xuanquanzhi Ruins

You can learn about the history of Dunhuang with a visit to Xuanquanzhi Ruins. Discover the area's desert landscape and sunrises.

Xuanquanzhi Ruins

Dunhuang Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Dunhuang Museum during your travels in Dunhuang. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's desert landscape.

Dunhuang Museum

Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Lake

Explore the great outdoors at Mingsha Shan, a lovely green space in Dunhuang. Discover the area's desert landscape and sunrises.

Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Lake

An'nanba Natural Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at An'nanba Natural Reserve, a lovely green space in Aksai Kazakh Autonomous County.

An'nanba Natural Reserve

Northern Wei, Western Wei & Northern Zhou Caves

Learn about the local history of Dunhuang when you take a trip to Northern Wei, Western Wei & Northern Zhou Caves. Discover the area's museums and monuments.

Northern Wei, Western Wei & Northern Zhou Caves

Jiuquan Park

Explore the great outdoors at Jiuquan Park, a lovely green space in Jiuquan. Take in the museums and desert landscape in the area.

Jiuquan Park

Yangguan Historic Sites

You can learn about the history of Dunhuang with a trip to Yangguan Historic Sites. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

Yangguan Historic Sites

Areas of Dunhuang

A rooftop view of the sand dunes and Gobi Desert in the distance.

Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring

You'll enjoy the museums and parks in Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring. You might want to make time for a stop at Crescent Lake or Bell Tower.

Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake in Dunhuang, Gansu Province - Desert scenery under clear sky

Jiuquan

Mausoleums of Hami Uygur Royal family tomb in Kumul city,China

Hami

Frequently asked questions

Is Dunhuang worth visiting?
Famous for its markets and history, finding awesome things to do in Dunhuang is a cinch. Be sure to add Crescent Lake to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Dunhuang?
Crescent Lake and Bell Tower are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Dunhuang while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dunhuang?
Crescent Lake is one of the top tourist attractions in Dunhuang and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Dunhuang?
If you only want to see the leading attractions, three days is a good amount of time for an escape to Dunhuang. Stay for seven to ten days for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, tour nearby hotspots and explore off the beaten path.
Is Dunhuang a walkable city?
With popular attractions like Shazhou Market in the area, Dunhuang is every bit a destination to see on foot. Like to visit some vibrant neighborhoods a walkable distance from downtown? Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring is around 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Dunhuang with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all the family, have a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Dunhuang with kids.

What to do in Dunhuang for adults?
Dunhuang Museum is one of the main things to do in Dunhuang. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Dunhuang?
In Dunhuang, Shazhou Market is a top spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Dunhuang.