Shazhou Night Market (沙洲夜市), the largest night market in Dunhuang, is a bustling hub of Silk Road cuisine and handicrafts. Renowned for its distinct local flavor and vibrant folk customs, it is often referred to as Dunhuang’s “night scenery” and “cultural landscape,” making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
Situated in the heart of Dunhuang City, Shazhou Night Market spans an impressive area of 66,600 square meters. It is a melting pot of 13 ethnic groups, including Han, Hui, Uighur, Dongxiang, Yugur, Mongol, Tibetan, Korean, Kazakh, Salar, and others, with over 6,000 people participating in its operation. This cultural diversity is vividly reflected in the market’s vibrant atmosphere.
The market is divided into five main areas: snacks, handicrafts, “Sanpotai” tea houses, agricultural and sideline products, and local specialties. The snacks area is particularly famous for Dunhuang’s signature dishes, such as “donkey meat yellow noodles,” hand-pulled noodles, sour water noodles, spicy noodles, and stuffed pastries. Among these, “donkey meat yellow noodles” is one of the most iconic local delicacies.
In the handicrafts section, over 100 stalls display a variety of handmade crafts, including crystal stone glasses, jade camels, Dunhuang silk rugs, statues, mural reproductions, and glow-in-the-dark cups. The agricultural and local products area showcases local specialties such as Li Guang apricots, Ming Mountain jujubes, purple peach, and fragrant pears, highlighting the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
The architectural style of Shazhou Night Market mimics the Tang Dynasty, infused with strong local characteristics, creating a unique cultural ambiance that showcases Dunhuang’s heritage. As night falls and the lights come on, the market transforms into a lively spectacle, attracting visitors from all over the world. The food square features a stage dedicated to cultural performances, where visitors can enjoy various folk shows while savoring the delicious food. These performances, mostly organized by local community groups, are amateur but widely appreciated for their charm and entertainment value, catering to a broad audience.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 16.00 – 3.00 in the next morning |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0937-8829852 |
Location and Transportation
Shazhou Night Market is located at No. 1 Xinjian Road, Dunhuang City, Jiuquan, Gansu Province. To get there, you can take bus Dunhuang 2, Dunhuang 3, or Dunhuang 4, and get off at Dunhuang Night Market Stop (敦煌夜市站).
