Welcome to the Mogao Caves

🌟Dunhuang, a magical journey through a thousand years Dear friends, can you imagine encountering a dream that spans a thousand years in the lonely desert smoke? Dunhuang, a city surrounded by desert and Gobi, is like a pearl lost on the Silk Road, radiating mysterious and enchanting brilliance. Today, let me take you into Dunhuang and start an unforgettable trip✨ Preparation ● Documents: ID card, student ID (don’t forget if you have discounts). ● Clothing: Dunhuang has a large temperature difference between day and night. Even in summer, you need a light jacket at night. Also, sun-protective clothing, a sun hat, and sunglasses are essential because the sunlight here is truly “passionate”😎. ● Skincare: The desert climate is dry, so high-moisture skincare products and lip balm are a must. ● Medicine: Prepare some common medicines like cold medicine, stomach medicine, and fever reducers just in case. Itinerary Day 1: Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake ● Morning: Mogao Caves The Mogao Caves are a treasure of world cultural heritage! Book your tickets in advance on the “Mogao Caves Visit Reservation Website” and be sure to choose the earliest time slot. Upon arrival, first watch two films about the history and culture of the Mogao Caves at the digital exhibition center, then take the shuttle bus to the cave area. Follow the guide through the caves, admiring the exquisite murals and sculptures, as if you can hear the chiseling sounds of craftsmen from a thousand years ago. Remember not to use flash when taking photos📸. ● Afternoon: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake In the afternoon, head to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake. You can first ride a camel and enjoy the pleasure of walking in the desert, with the sound of camel bells transporting you back to the ancient Silk Road. Then try sand sliding, racing down the sand dunes—exciting and fun. At dusk, climb the sand dune, find a good spot, and quietly wait for the sunset. When the sunset’s afterglow shines on the dunes, Crescent Lake looks like a new moon embedded within, a breathtaking view😍. After watching the sunset, you can also experience desert camping, lying in a tent and gazing at the starry sky, feeling the desert’s tranquility and mystery. Day 2: Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark - Yumenguan Pass - Han Great Wall ● Morning: Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark After breakfast, set off for the Yardang Geopark. Known as the “Devil City,” it emits eerie howling sounds when the strong wind blows. Take the sightseeing bus to visit attractions like Golden Lion Welcoming Guests, Peacock Standing Gracefully, and West Sea Fleet. Standing before these uniquely shaped yardang landforms, you will marvel at nature’s craftsmanship, as if you are in an alien world🤩. ● Afternoon: Yumenguan Pass - Han Great Wall Next, visit Yumenguan Pass and the Han Great Wall. “Why should the Qiang flute complain about the willows? The spring breeze does not cross Yumenguan.” Standing at the ruins of Yumenguan Pass, reciting ancient poetry, you can feel the heroic and tragic spirit of the past. Although only some ruins remain of the Han Great Wall, it still allows you to imagine its former grandeur and strength. This spot is perfect for photos, making every shot look like a blockbuster📷. Food Recommendations ● Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles: A specialty of Dunhuang, the yellow noodles are chewy and paired with fragrant donkey meat, the taste is simply amazing👍. ● Lamb Noodle Soup: Fresh lamb with smooth noodles, the soup is delicious and warming. ● Apricot Peel Water: The sweet and sour apricot peel water is a characteristic drink of Dunhuang, refreshing and appetizing—definitely try it. Accommodation Suggestions You can choose to stay in downtown Dunhuang for convenient transportation and many nearby food options. If you want to experience desert style, you can also choose a guesthouse near Mingsha Mountain or a desert camping base. Dear friends, the beauty of Dunhuang can only be truly felt by visiting in person. Pack your bags and embark on this magical journey through a thousand years! Remember to share your travel stories in the comments😘.