After breakfast, explore the enchanting Mingsha Mountain (Singing Sand Dunes) and Crescent Lake. The sand of Mingsha Mountain is soft and fine, displaying a spectrum of colors including purple, red, yellow, white, and black. From the base to the summit, the sand becomes progressively finer and smoother. When you hold a handful and gently squeeze it, it feels clean and dust-free, akin to gold sand repeatedly washed by clear water. Here, the mountain and the spring present strikingly different yet equally captivating landscapes, leaving visitors in awe of nature's grandeur. The crescent-shaped spring nestled within the sea of sand creates a magical scene, evoking the poetic imagery of "a vast moon rising with the tide, a pearl shining amidst a desert of endless dunes." After this unforgettable experience, head to your hotel in Dunhuang for check-in.
In the afternoon, visit the Mogao Caves, hailed as the "Treasure House of Eastern Art" and recognized as one of the most significant cultural discoveries of the 20th century. The preservation of Mogao Caves has been a story of resilience and struggle. Facing the Sanwei Peak, the caves are arranged in five tiers, with varying sizes and heights, densely scattered across the cliff face. Inside, you'll find majestic Buddha statues, exquisite murals, lifelike painted sculptures, graceful flying apsaras, and intricate compositions with vibrant colors—each element seemingly perfected as if created in a single day.
In the evening, you can explore the Shazhou Night Market to savor local delicacies and immerse yourself in the vibrant folk culture.
