Things to do in Dunhuang

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Wanderlustfemale
Photo by Beautiful Guangxi
Photo by Beautiful Guangxi

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What to do in Dunhuang

Discover the most popular places to visit in Dunhuang

Each grotto in the caves were decorated by a separate beneficiary. As a gift to Buddha.

Mogao Caves

After visiting Mogao Caves, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dunhuang. Amble around the area's forest or experience its museums.

Mogao Caves
Crescent Moon Spring, Dunhuang, China

Crescent Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Crescent Lake during your travels in Dunhuang. Discover the area's desert landscape and sunrises.

Crescent Lake

Mingsha Shan

Explore the great outdoors at Mingsha Shan, a lovely green space in Dunhuang. Discover the area's desert landscape and sunrises.

Mingsha Shan

Dunhuang Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Dunhuang Museum during your travels in Dunhuang. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's desert landscape.

Dunhuang Museum

Xiqian Buddha Caves

You can find out about the history of Dunhuang with a stop at Xiqian Buddha Caves. Wander the parks or discover the area's desert landscape.

Xiqian Buddha Caves

An'nanba Natural Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at An'nanba Natural Reserve, a lovely green space in Aksai Kazakh Autonomous County.

An'nanba Natural Reserve

Juyan Ruins

Learn about the local history of Jinta County when you take a trip to Juyan Ruins.

Juyan Ruins

Bell Tower

You can find out about the history of Dunhuang with a visit to Bell Tower. Amble around the area's parks or experience its museums.

Bell Tower

Yangguan Museum

You can study the exhibits at Yangguan Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Dunhuang. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

Yangguan Museum

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Dunhuang

A rooftop view of the sand dunes and Gobi Desert in the distance.

Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring

You'll enjoy the museums and parks in Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring. You might want to make time for a stop at Crescent Lake or Bell Tower.

Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring

Popular day trips from Dunhuang

Jiuquan

Jiuquan

Photo by Dr.Rohit Reddy

Hami

Frequently asked questions

Is Dunhuang worth visiting?
Famous for its markets and history, finding awesome things to do in Dunhuang is a cinch. Be sure to add Crescent Lake to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Dunhuang?
Crescent Lake and Bell Tower are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Dunhuang while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dunhuang?
Crescent Lake is one of the top tourist attractions in Dunhuang and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Dunhuang?
If you only want to see the leading attractions, three days is a good amount of time for an escape to Dunhuang. Stay for seven to ten days for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, tour nearby hotspots and explore off the beaten path.
Is Dunhuang a walkable city?
With popular attractions like Shazhou Market in the area, Dunhuang is every bit a destination to see on foot. Like to visit some vibrant neighborhoods a walkable distance from downtown? Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring is around 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Dunhuang with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all the family, have a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Dunhuang with kids.

What to do in Dunhuang for adults?
Dunhuang Museum is one of the main things to do in Dunhuang. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Dunhuang?
In Dunhuang, Shazhou Market is a top spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Dunhuang.