1.Dunhuang Nightlife
Dunhuang Nightlife
Dunhuang Musicians and Dancers
In ancient times, Dunhuang was a melting pot for both song and dance of western and eastern cultures and developed a school all its own, the Dunhuang Folk Musicians and Dancers. After the arrangement of the Feitian Song and Dance Group of the Dunhuang Hotel, the programs well represent the rich Dunhuang cultural atmosphere and takes you back to the scene of the prosperous Tang Dynasty (618-907).
Summer of Dunhuang
This is a large song and dance performance with rich cultural references to the Silk Road, reflected in the ethnic art of song and dance. The performance, inspired by the content of murals in the Mogao Caves, portrays the dancing, finery and music of ethnic groups along the Silk Road.
Dunhuang Night market - Shazhou Market
It is an ideal place to learn about Dunhuang folk-customs and life. The market, divided into several areas, includes snacks, art ware, Sanpaotai (a kind of drinking vessel with a small plate, a cup and lid. Now the name of a special tea made with sugar candy, longan, Chinese date, medlar and currant.), Tea House area and a special ethnic products area etc. Tourists can browse at your leisure. There are also local opera street shows performed by amateurs - entertaining and fun.
More Attractions
Ancient City of Dunhuang Movie Set was originally designed for the setting of the historical film Dunhuang in 1987. Nowadays, it is the biggest set for shooting movies in northwest China.
Dunhuang Museum reflects the flourishing social development and cultural exchange between China and the West when Dunhuang was a major stop along the Silk Road.
Western Thousand-Buddhas Cave , situated 35 kilometers southwest of Dunhuang, on a cliff north of Danghe River, won its name due to its location in the western part of Mogao Caves. Most of the sixteen caves were excavated during the North Wei Dynasty (386-543). Approximately seven of the caves can not be reached, but tourists can observe them from a distance.
White Horse Dagoba established in 386, is two kilometers (about 1.2 miles) from the downtown Dunhuang. It's the burial place of Kumarajiva, a master specializing in Buddhist Dharma's white horse.
Dunhuang Folk-Custom Museum is located inside Crescent Lake's scenic spot. Constructed in the traditional Dunhuang architectural style, it presents the folk-customs of western China, including religion, everyday life, wedding custom, needlework, etc.
Dunhuang Yadan National Geology Park is a physiognomy landscape formed by aeolian erosion. It is composed of various sculptures, and one may find numerous well known architectures here. It is situated 75 kilometers (about 46.6 miles) west of the Yumen Pass, taking approximately three hours to reach by taxi. Because of the eeriness of the sound of the wind blowing at night, the locals refer to it as Ghost Town. While traveling on this line, tourists should prepare enough food and water and bring along a hat and sunglasses. Cameras should also be protected from the strong sandstorms.
The traveler finds the Mogao Caves, a shrine of Buddhist art treasures, 25 km (15.5miles) from downtown Dunhuang on the eastern slope of Mingsha Shan (Mount Echoing Sand). A network of plank reinforced roads plying north to south 1600 meters (5, 249 feet) long lead to the cave openings, which are stacked five stories high some reaching up to 50 meters (164 feet). By the way, Mogao means high up in the desert.
According to Tang Dynasty records, a monk had witnessed onsite a vision of thousand Buddhas under showers of golden rays. Thus inspired, he started the caves construction work that spanned ten dynasties. Mogao Caves are commonly known as the Caves of a Thousand Buddhas.
Buddhist art has its origins in India. Mogao sculptors improvised where the rock surface did not work well under their chisels. They placed clay statues in front of the cave walls, carved relief murals as backdrops, and painted the sidewalls and ceilings with art decors. The largest statue is 34.5 meters (113 feet) high and the smallest a mere 2 centimeters (0.79inches) high.
The traveler will note traces of Indian Buddhist art in the earlier works. More recent works depict all walks of life and activities in a local setting. You will relive the daily routines and special events as captured by the artists while you are exploring the 750 caves. There are also ups and downs in the artistic quality over the centuries, depending on the fortunes of Buddhism with available art patronage. Artists in each dynasty painted with their distinctive palette. The visitor can tell the works in the Tang Dynasty from those in the Song Dynasty.
People believe it possible to fill 25 kilometers (15.5miles) of gallery space with the works of art from Mogao. There are 50,000 manuscripts written in many languages apart from artifacts. The Mogao Caves are a depository of historical and cultural exchanges over more than a thousand years between China and other nations.
Note:
1.The Digital Exhibition Center has been formally open to the public since August 1, 2014. Shuttle bus service is available between the caves and the digital exhibition center. Visitors can enjoy two amazing movies A thousand Years of Mogao Caves and Splendors of Buddha’s Palace at the digital exhibition center and then take the shuttle bus to visit the caves. Tourists can call the scenic area at (+86) 0937-8825000 / 8825166 / 8825066 (7:00-00:00) for further consultation.
2. Within the caves, no photo! An electronic torch maybe necessary to see inside the caves.
For detailed information on Dynasties, please refer to History of China
You may wonder why the sand makes these different sounds. There is a legend that says how, in ancient times, a general with many soldiers came here to fight in a war with their enemies. While they were engaged in a fierce battle, a great gust of wind buried all the warriors in the sand and the sand mountain was formed. As the battle was at its height, the soldiers continued to fight beneath the sand. Thus, the sound you hear is said to be the roar of the soldiers. However, the real cause is the friction and static created as the wind shifts the sand or you slip down the mountainside.
Encircled by the mountain, there is Crescent Lake so called because of its shape. The water in the lake is so pure and sweet that it looks like an emerald set in the sand. Many of the visitors who have made their way down the mountain like to drink from the lake. According to historical record, the lake has been in existence for hundreds of years without ever being buried by the sand; it is really a geological wonder.
There is also a story about the lake. In the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC- 24), a general called Li Guang, together with a group of soldiers, captured a powerful and swift horse from Dawan, a western state of China at that time. When passing the Echoing-Sand Mountain upon their return, the soldiers became too thirsty to continue their march. General Li drew his sword and thrust it into the side of the mountain causing water to spring forth and so formed the lake.
Today, the mountain is listed as a key national scenic spot. It is possible to climb it on foot or, if you prefer, on the back of a camel. It is also possible to take a sand bath treatment. Your visit is complete as you appreciate the splendid environment consisting of golden sand, a wondrous mountain, a tranquil lake and a beautiful sunset.
Dunhuang Nightlife
Nightlife, with obvious local characteristics is colorful in Dunhuang City. However, there are not many sparkling bars, discos or clubs, etc. the main attractions are the night markets; in China, even the world cannot miss these bustling, vibrant places in Dunhuang City. Let us introduce some shining examples here.
Dunhuang Musicians and DancersIn ancient times, Dunhuang was a melting pot for both song and dance of western and eastern cultures and developed a school all its own, the Dunhuang Folk Musicians and Dancers. After the arrangement of the Feitian Song and Dance Group of the Dunhuang Hotel, the programs well represent the rich Dunhuang cultural atmosphere and takes you back to the scene of the prosperous Tang Dynasty (618-907).
Summer of DunhuangThis is a large song and dance performance with rich cultural references to the Silk Road, reflected in the ethnic art of song and dance. The performance, inspired by the content of murals in the Mogao Caves, portrays the dancing, finery and music of ethnic groups along the Silk Road.
From June to October, tourists can experience these performances on the second floor of south building (Conference Center) of Dunhuang Hotel (Address: No. 14 in East Yangguan Rd.), from 20:00 to 21:10.
Dunhuang Night market - Shazhou MarketIt is an ideal place to learn about Dunhuang folk-customs and life. The market, divided into several areas, includes snacks, art ware, Sanpaotai (a kind of drinking vessel with a small plate, a cup and lid. Now the name of a special tea made with sugar candy, longan, Chinese date, medlar and currant.), Tea House area and a special ethnic products area etc. Tourists can browse at your leisure. There are also local opera street shows performed by amateurs - entertaining and fun.
With the long hours of daylight, tourists still have enough time to visit Echoing-Sand Mountain after supper. There are many entertainments and thrills for you to experience, including camel riding, climbing the mountain, sand sliding and parachute jumping.
Dunhuang Attractions
Dunhuang Attractions
Dunhuang is the top tourist city in China. Its incredible beauty is difficult to be described in words. Its key points of interest and natural sights are shockingly beautiful and capable of tugging at one's heart. The Pearl of the Silk Road, Dunhuang, opens her arms to welcome tourists from all over the world.
Top Attractions
Top Attractions
  Mogao CavesLocated 25 kilometers southeast of Dunhuang, Mogao Caves is regarded as the premier Buddhist spot in China, perhaps in the whole world. The artistic features of the treasured Buddhist murals represent perfectly the artistic style of the Northern Wei (386-543), Sui (581-618) and Tang (618-907) dynasties through the combination of the architecture, statues and murals in the caves. Presently, there are about ten caves and two exhibition centers open to the public, occasionally more during public holidays. |
 Echoing-Sand MountainFive kilometers south of Dunhuang City, Echoing-Sand Mountain is the accumulation of years of sand in the size of rice. Each time the wind blows, there is a sound from the mountain and when there is a breeze, the sound is like musical instruments, hence the name. The most marvelous experience is when after climbing to the top, although quite strenuous, one can slide down to the foot of the mountain, a wonderfully amusing experience! |
 Crescent LakeFive kilometers southwest of Dunhuang, the Crescent Lake lies in the arms of Echoing-Sand Mountain, appearing clear and beautiful. The lake is crescent-shaped, hence the name. It's surrounded by quicksand. Although it's quite windy sometimes, the lake has never been covered by the sand. It's really a marvelous spectacle in the desert. |
 Yangguan PassLocated 70 kilometers (about 43.5 miles) southwest of Dunhuang, the Yangguan Pass is the gateway to the south western region on the way to the Silk Road. The beacon tower is all that remains of the Pass. Near the Yangguan Pass is Nanhu, a local grape producing area and Grape Gallery. Tourists can sit on the stone benches, sample the sweet grapes and wander through the gallery to learn about local folk-customs. |
 Yumenguan PassSituated 90 kilometers (about 55.9 miles) northwest of Dunhuang City, the Yumen Pass was an important gateway to the western region in ancient times. Yumen Pass, Hecang Town and Han Great Wall (Han Dynasty), are the major sights in this area. Since the Yangguan Pass and the Yumen Pass are a distance from Dunhuang, one can have a feel for the desolation of western China. Yangguan Pass is relatively closer to the city and a comparatively smoother ride. Taxis can be hired for the hour drive and it is wise to stay away from minibuses, as the fare is greater. |
Ancient City of Dunhuang Movie Set was originally designed for the setting of the historical film Dunhuang in 1987. Nowadays, it is the biggest set for shooting movies in northwest China. Dunhuang Museum reflects the flourishing social development and cultural exchange between China and the West when Dunhuang was a major stop along the Silk Road. Western Thousand-Buddhas Cave , situated 35 kilometers southwest of Dunhuang, on a cliff north of Danghe River, won its name due to its location in the western part of Mogao Caves. Most of the sixteen caves were excavated during the North Wei Dynasty (386-543). Approximately seven of the caves can not be reached, but tourists can observe them from a distance. White Horse Dagoba established in 386, is two kilometers (about 1.2 miles) from the downtown Dunhuang. It's the burial place of Kumarajiva, a master specializing in Buddhist Dharma's white horse. Dunhuang Folk-Custom Museum is located inside Crescent Lake's scenic spot. Constructed in the traditional Dunhuang architectural style, it presents the folk-customs of western China, including religion, everyday life, wedding custom, needlework, etc. Dunhuang Yadan National Geology Park is a physiognomy landscape formed by aeolian erosion. It is composed of various sculptures, and one may find numerous well known architectures here. It is situated 75 kilometers (about 46.6 miles) west of the Yumen Pass, taking approximately three hours to reach by taxi. Because of the eeriness of the sound of the wind blowing at night, the locals refer to it as Ghost Town. While traveling on this line, tourists should prepare enough food and water and bring along a hat and sunglasses. Cameras should also be protected from the strong sandstorms.
Mogao Caves - Art of Dunhuang Caves
Mogao Caves - Art of Dunhuang Caves
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Mogao Caves, Dunhuang More Mogao Caves Pictures |
According to Tang Dynasty records, a monk had witnessed onsite a vision of thousand Buddhas under showers of golden rays. Thus inspired, he started the caves construction work that spanned ten dynasties. Mogao Caves are commonly known as the Caves of a Thousand Buddhas.
Buddhist art has its origins in India. Mogao sculptors improvised where the rock surface did not work well under their chisels. They placed clay statues in front of the cave walls, carved relief murals as backdrops, and painted the sidewalls and ceilings with art decors. The largest statue is 34.5 meters (113 feet) high and the smallest a mere 2 centimeters (0.79inches) high.
The traveler will note traces of Indian Buddhist art in the earlier works. More recent works depict all walks of life and activities in a local setting. You will relive the daily routines and special events as captured by the artists while you are exploring the 750 caves. There are also ups and downs in the artistic quality over the centuries, depending on the fortunes of Buddhism with available art patronage. Artists in each dynasty painted with their distinctive palette. The visitor can tell the works in the Tang Dynasty from those in the Song Dynasty.
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Note:1.The Digital Exhibition Center has been formally open to the public since August 1, 2014. Shuttle bus service is available between the caves and the digital exhibition center. Visitors can enjoy two amazing movies A thousand Years of Mogao Caves and Splendors of Buddha’s Palace at the digital exhibition center and then take the shuttle bus to visit the caves. Tourists can call the scenic area at (+86) 0937-8825000 / 8825166 / 8825066 (7:00-00:00) for further consultation.
2. Within the caves, no photo! An electronic torch maybe necessary to see inside the caves.
For detailed information on Dynasties, please refer to History of China
Echoing-Sand Mountain (Mingsha Shan)
Have you ever heard of a mountain that echoes to the sound of sand as you slide down its slopes? Can you image a perennially limpid lake in an area of desert sand? Here in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, you will have the chance to enjoy the wonderful spectacle of the Echoing-Sand Mountain.
The mountain is five kilometers (about three miles) away from the city of Dunhuang. Seen from afar, the mountain is just like a golden dragon winding its way over the horizon. As you approach you become aware that the sand has many colors ranging from red to yellow, green, black and white. On days when a strong wind blows, the fast shifting sand roars; but when the wind is little more than a light breeze, the sand produces gentle, dulcet sounds akin to music. It is the same when you are sliding down the mountainside. At first, the sand under your feet just whispers; but the further you slide, the louder the sound until it reaches a crescendo like thunder or a drum beat. Some say that the sand is singing, while to others it is like an echo and this is how the mountain gets its name. |  |
Encircled by the mountain, there is Crescent Lake so called because of its shape. The water in the lake is so pure and sweet that it looks like an emerald set in the sand. Many of the visitors who have made their way down the mountain like to drink from the lake. According to historical record, the lake has been in existence for hundreds of years without ever being buried by the sand; it is really a geological wonder.
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Today, the mountain is listed as a key national scenic spot. It is possible to climb it on foot or, if you prefer, on the back of a camel. It is also possible to take a sand bath treatment. Your visit is complete as you appreciate the splendid environment consisting of golden sand, a wondrous mountain, a tranquil lake and a beautiful sunset.
Crescent Lake & White Horse Dagoba
Crescent Lake
Just as oil and water don't mix, so do springs and deserts. But Crescent Spring is an exception. About 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) south of Dunhuang city, and surrounded by the Echoing-Sand Mountain, Crescent Spring can be called a natural wonder in the Gobi Desert. Some say it reminds them of the eye of a beautiful woman, lucid, beautiful and amorous. Some say it looks like the mysterious, gentle and seductive lips of a pretty woman, or a slice of lush, sweet and crystal cantaloupe. Actually, it resembles a crescent fallen down into this desert. Having been lying among these sand dunes for thousands of years, although given many surprise attacks by sandstorms, Crescent Spring still gurgles clear, and still remains worthy as the first spring in the desert.
You may be wondering how this desert wonder formed. Research has discovered that in this special crescent landform the wind created this depression, as the cross-ventilated theory states, the falling sands from the surrounding mountains would be sent back to the other side of nearby Echoing-Sand Mountains. Thus, the sands do not smother the spring. And this particular earth movement keeps the sand dunes and spring eternally in a harmonious and almost paradoxical existence.
Here you can enjoy not only the rare view where an oasis meets the desert, but also some fun sand adventures, such as riding camels, 'dune surfing' sand sliding. After climbing to the top of the dunes, from there you can't help but marvel at the dramatic view. You have discovered the wondrous sight of Crescent Spring!
White Horse Dagoba
White Horse Dagoba is located in Baima (White Horse) Village, Danghe Town, 1 km (0.62 mile) west of Dunhuang City, Gansu Province. The dagoba has 9 stories, is 12 meters (39.4 feet) in height with an octagonal foundation. Structures resembling up-turned lotus petals surround its central body. On each of the angles of its hexagonal roof hang bells which chime in a breeze. The dagoba is of the lama dagoba style of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It is evident from the characters engraved on two stones and on a block in the middle of the second story that the White Horse Dagoba was repaired many times by later generations.
A story accompanies the dagoba origins. Legend has it that the dagoba was built in memory of a white horse. It is said that in 384, Fu Jian, emperor of the Former Qin Dynasty (351-394), invited Kumarajiva, a master specializing in Buddhist dharma, to carry Buddhist doctrine into China from the West Region. When Kumarajiva reached the present Dunhuang City, his white horse got sick and died. The white horse had accompanied Kumarajiva through the Gobi, several times saving his life. In memory of his loyal horse Kumarajiva and local Buddhist followers raised money and had this dagoba built in 386. According to records, in 1930, a 0.9-meter-high (3.0-foot-high) pagoda with a diamond sutra(abbreviation name for a kind of Buddhist sutra) carved on it was excavated. However it was later lost.
Even after 1000 years, the White Horse Dagoba set off by surrounding green trees and cyan tiles is still straight and majestic, a treasure of Dunhuang City.
Just as oil and water don't mix, so do springs and deserts. But Crescent Spring is an exception. About 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) south of Dunhuang city, and surrounded by the Echoing-Sand Mountain, Crescent Spring can be called a natural wonder in the Gobi Desert. Some say it reminds them of the eye of a beautiful woman, lucid, beautiful and amorous. Some say it looks like the mysterious, gentle and seductive lips of a pretty woman, or a slice of lush, sweet and crystal cantaloupe. Actually, it resembles a crescent fallen down into this desert. Having been lying among these sand dunes for thousands of years, although given many surprise attacks by sandstorms, Crescent Spring still gurgles clear, and still remains worthy as the first spring in the desert.
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Here you can enjoy not only the rare view where an oasis meets the desert, but also some fun sand adventures, such as riding camels, 'dune surfing' sand sliding. After climbing to the top of the dunes, from there you can't help but marvel at the dramatic view. You have discovered the wondrous sight of Crescent Spring!
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| Admission Fee: | CNY 120 (Including Echoing-Sand Mountain) |
| Opening Hours: | 06:00 to 17:50 |
| Recommended Time for a Visit: | One Hour |
White Horse Dagoba
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| White Horse Dagoba, Dunhuang |
A story accompanies the dagoba origins. Legend has it that the dagoba was built in memory of a white horse. It is said that in 384, Fu Jian, emperor of the Former Qin Dynasty (351-394), invited Kumarajiva, a master specializing in Buddhist dharma, to carry Buddhist doctrine into China from the West Region. When Kumarajiva reached the present Dunhuang City, his white horse got sick and died. The white horse had accompanied Kumarajiva through the Gobi, several times saving his life. In memory of his loyal horse Kumarajiva and local Buddhist followers raised money and had this dagoba built in 386. According to records, in 1930, a 0.9-meter-high (3.0-foot-high) pagoda with a diamond sutra(abbreviation name for a kind of Buddhist sutra) carved on it was excavated. However it was later lost.
Even after 1000 years, the White Horse Dagoba set off by surrounding green trees and cyan tiles is still straight and majestic, a treasure of Dunhuang City.
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