I thought Egypt was already beautiful until I arrived in Dunhuang

Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Mogao Caves** - **Highlights**: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with 735 caves, a treasure trove of mural and sculpture art. - **Tips**: - Book in advance on the official website (peak season has visitor limits). Opt for the Class A ticket (8 caves + digital center film). - Photography is prohibited inside the caves to protect the relics. - Off-season (November-April) allows access to more special caves (additional fees apply). 2. **Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake** - **Highlights**: A marvel where desert and spring coexist. Activities include camel rides, sand sliding, and sunset viewing. - **Tips**: - Visit early morning or evening to avoid midday heat. - Wear sand-proof shoe covers (rentable onsite) and bring plenty of water. 3. **Yang Pass & Yumen Pass** - **Highlights**: Ancient Silk Road frontier ruins, evoking the poetic desolation of "no old friends beyond Yang Pass." - **Tips**: - Yang Pass Museum offers guided tours; Yumen Pass is better for photography. - A combo ticket (including Han Dynasty Great Wall ruins) is more cost-effective. 4. **Yadan Devil City** - **Highlights**: A wind-eroded "Devil City" landscape with breathtaking sunset views. - **Tips**: - Located far from downtown (~180 km), consider hiring a car or joining a tour. - Shuttle buses operate inside the park; protect against strong winds and sand. 5. **Dunhuang Museum** - **Highlights**: Free entry to explore Dunhuang's history systematically. Don’t miss the replica of Cave 45 from Mogao. --- **II. Transportation Guide** - **Major Transport**: - **Flight**: Dunhuang Mogao International Airport, with direct flights from cities like Beijing and Shanghai during peak season. - **Train**: Dunhuang Station, accessible via high-speed rail or tourist trains (e.g., "Dunhuang Express") from Lanzhou/Xi’an. - **Local Transport**: - Taxis start at ¥5; convenient for downtown attractions. - Hiring a car for the west route (Yang Pass, Yumen Pass, Yadan) costs ~¥400-600/day. --- **III. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Downtown**: Plenty of options, convenient for dining (e.g., Dunhuang Hotel, Dunhuang International Hotel). - **Near Mingsha Mountain**: Homestays/camping for stargazing (basic facilities). - **Tips**: Book early during peak season (May-October); off-season offers discounts. --- **IV. Food Must-Tries** 1. **Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles**: A local specialty; try "Da Ji Braised Donkey Meat Noodles." 2. **Apricot Skin Water**: Sweet-sour summer drink, available everywhere. 3. **Lamb Soup with Vermicelli**: Perfect breakfast, best paired with bread. 4. **Shazhou Night Market**: Hub for BBQ, Liangpi (cold noodles), and dried apricots. --- **V. Itinerary Suggestions** - **2-3 Day Classic Route**: - **Day 1**: Mogao Caves → Dunhuang Museum → Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake (sunset). - **Day 2**: West Route by car: Yang Pass → Yumen Pass → Yadan Devil City (return after sunset). - **Day 3** (Optional): Yulin Caves (reservation required; murals rival Mogao’s). --- **VI. Key Notes** 1. **Sun & Sand Protection**: Strong UV—sunglasses, hats, sunscreen are musts. Protect devices from sand at Mingsha. 2. **Cultural Respect**: Do not touch Mogao murals; follow guides’ instructions. 3. **Seasonal Tips**: - Best time: May-June, September-October (mild weather). - Summer highs exceed 40°C; winter is cold but less crowded. --- Dunhuang is a city brimming with history and natural wonders. Smart planning ensures a richer experience. With extra time, explore hidden gems like Yulin Caves or Suoyang City Ruins. Happy travels!