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The Gansu Concert Under the Stars is only available for five days, from May 1–5.

"Mountains and springs coexist, sand and water co-exist." When in Dunhuang, you can't miss Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring! This guide covers everything from basic information to project experiences, photo opportunities, and precautions. Special forces, save this now! 📍Basic Information • Address: 5 km south of Dunhuang City, Gansu Province • Opening Hours: Peak Season (April–October) 5:00–20:30, latest entry 19:30; Off-Season (November–March) 7:30–19:00, latest entry 18:00 • Tickets: Full price ticket CNY 110 (valid for 3 days, multiple entries allowed), student/senior/child discounts available for CNY 55 • Sightseeing Vehicle: CNY 10 per one-way trip, CNY 20 for a round trip (optional) 🕙Best Time to Visit • Sunrise (5:00–7:00): Fewer people, soft light, climb the sand mountain to watch the sunrise for a full atmospheric experience. • Evening (17:00–20:00): Stunning sunset, pleasant temperature, suitable for camel riding, sand sliding, and taking photos with high-quality results. • Night (after 21:00): Sparkling starry sky, suitable for stargazing, desert camping, and experiencing the romance of the desert. The best seasons are May–October, but pay attention to sun protection in summer and the strong winds and cold in winter. 🎡Must-Try Activities 1. Camel Riding (Classic Must-Do): CNY 130/person, approx. 40 mins, will go around the top of the sand mountain. Taking photos while the camel team is moving has a very "Silk Road" feel. You can ask the team leader to help take photos (CNY 20 fee). Remember to wear long pants to prevent friction and sunglasses to protect against sand. 2. Sand Sliding (Thrilling Experience): CNY 20–40/time, with wooden board or tire sliding options. It is recommended to go to the main peak of Mingsha Mountain for a good view, but climbing the sand slope is a bit strenuous. 3. Desert Off-Road Vehicle/Motorcycle: Off-road vehicle CNY 150–300/person, motorcycle CNY 100/person, speed and passion, suitable for those seeking excitement. 4. Crescent Spring Viewing: You can walk or take a sightseeing vehicle for CNY 10 to the spring to enjoy the oasis spectacle in the desert. The sand mountain top on the east side of Mingsha Mountain is the best spot to overlook the entire Crescent Spring. 5. Desert Camping (Stars + Bonfire): CNY 200–500/person, including tent, dinner, and performance. Stargazing on summer nights, and then participating in a desert bonfire party is super cozy. 📸Photo Spots • Main Peak of Mingsha Mountain: Overlook the entire Crescent Spring. At sunset, the golden sand sea and the clear Crescent Spring complement each other, making it beautiful beyond words. • Camel Team Route: With sand dunes as the background and the camel team as a silhouette, you can take great photos in minutes. • Ancient Buildings by Crescent Spring: Red willows, pavilions, and spring water in the same frame, full of ancient charm. • Desert Light and Shadow: In the early morning or at dusk, the lines of the sand ridge are distinct under the light and shadow. 👗Outfit Suggestions: Wear red or white long dresses for a strong contrast with the desert; renting Hanfu or Western Region-style clothing is also great for photos, and can be rented in the scenic area. ❗Precautions • Sun and Sand Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and face masks are essential. Protect your mobile phone/camera from sand, otherwise it will be troublesome if sand gets inside. • Shoe and Sock Selection: You can go barefoot or rent sand-proof shoe covers for CNY 15/pair. The sand surface is hot in summer, and it is more comfortable to walk barefoot in the evening. • Hydration: The desert is dry, so bring more drinking water and replenish moisture in time. • Environmental Protection: Protect the environment, do not litter, and protect the beautiful ecology of Crescent Spring. 🚗Transportation • Taxi: Starting from the city center, it costs about CNY 10 and takes about 10 minutes. • Bus: Bus No. 3 goes directly for CNY 2, and the terminal station is Mingsha Mountain. • Self-driving: The scenic area parking lot charges CNY 5/time. 🗺Itinerary Suggestions • Half-Day Tour (Recommended Evening): Enter the park at 17:00 → ride a camel → climb Mingsha Mountain → sand sliding → watch the sunset at Crescent Spring → leave the park at 21:00. • One-Day In-Depth Tour: Go to Mogao Grottoes in the morning to experience the artistic charm, and come to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring in the afternoon (you can choose desert camping). • Multi-Day Joint Tour (Dunhuang Classic Route) ◦ D1: Mogao Grottoes → Watch the sunset at Mingsha Mountain ◦ D2: West Line (Yangguan, Yumen Pass, Yadan Devil City) ◦ D3: Dunhuang Museum → Night Market 🏨Accommodation Recommendations • Dunhuang City: Convenient for eating, drinking, and playing. Dunhuang Villa (a distinctive hotel near Mingsha Mountain) and Dunhuang International Hotel (high cost performance) are both good. • Desert Camping: Those who want to experience the starry sky can choose Mingsha Mountain Starry Sky Camp and Dunhuang Desert Legend Camping Base. My friends, come to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring to encounter the millennial romance of the desert and clear springs! Let's go! If you have any questions, leave a message in the comments section 👇
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*Created by local travelers and translated by AI.
Posted: May 1, 2025
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