Nighttime Splendor of Dunhuang's Ancient Architecture

A trip to Dunhuang is incomplete without visiting the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring. This unique landscape, where desert and oasis coexist, perfectly showcases the romance and mystery of Northwest China! Finally fulfilling a long-time dream, I set foot in the desert for the first time and found myself completely enchanted by the atmosphere here 🌵💫. The lively Dongwang Night Market at night adds to the charm, offering a plethora of snacks in a clean and inviting environment—even the restrooms are so aesthetically pleasing that they’re photo-worthy. Dunhuang truly exceeded all expectations in terms of comfort! Highlights of the Trip: This journey focused on "Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring," where I experienced the vastness of the desert and the wonder of the spring. I also visited the Dunhuang Night Market to savor local delicacies and enjoy the city's unique nightlife. Listen to the wind at Mingsha Mountain, see the stars reflected in Crescent Moon Spring, and indulge in the spicy snacks and vibrant lights of the night market—Dunhuang offers a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds! Recommended Attractions: 1. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring 📍 Address: Mingshan Road, Dunhuang City, Jiuquan 🕰 Opening Hours: September 27 - December 31, 06:00-19:30 🎫 Ticket Price: 110 RMB This breathtaking site combines desert and water, with Crescent Moon Spring resembling a jade hairpin amidst the golden sands. A must-visit destination! Feel the fine sand underfoot, and don’t miss the unique experience of a camel ride in the desert. For a quieter experience, take a stroll by the spring, listen to the wind, and capture stunning photos. 2. Dunhuang Dongwang Night Market A must-visit bustling night market in Dunhuang, known for its cleanliness and great atmosphere! The bright lights at night and the overwhelming variety of snacks make it hard to choose: grilled lamb skewers, yogurt, apricot peel tea, and handmade desserts are all famous here. The biggest surprise is the incredibly beautiful restroom in the market, which feels like a social media hotspot—clean and stylish! The night market offers the most authentic Dunhuang city vibe, and it’s highly recommended to visit in the evening. Practical Dunhuang Travel Tips: - For Mingsha Mountain, it’s best to visit in the morning or at sunset to avoid the midday heat. Sand-proof shoe covers are available for rent on-site to keep sand out of your shoes. - Arrive at the night market with an empty stomach, as there are too many delicious options. Be sure to try the signature lamb skewers and yogurt! - The public facilities in the night market are excellent, so you don’t need to worry about finding clean restrooms and can enjoy your evening to the fullest. - The desert has a significant temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket for a comfortable night market stroll. Transportation Tips: It takes only about 15 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing service from Dunhuang city center to Mingsha Mountain. The night market is located in the city center, making it easily accessible by foot or car. After exploring Mingsha Mountain, you can head straight to the night market for dinner, making for a perfectly timed itinerary. Dunhuang Food Recommendations: Must-try items include grilled lamb skewers, apricot peel tea, milk cakes, and Shazhou potatoes, all of which are authentically local. Some stalls also offer unique Dunhuang-style dishes at reasonable prices.