Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring Scenic Area (鸣沙山月牙泉景区) is located in Dunhuang City, Gansu Province, covering an area of 76.82 square kilometers with the core scenic area defined at 12.79 square kilometers. It is renowned for its unique landscape where sand mountain and spring coexist harmoniously, earning it the reputation as one of the most spectacular sights beyond the Great Wall.
Mingsha Mountain stretches over 40 kilometers from east to west and approximately 20 kilometers from north to south, with its highest peak reaching 1715 meters above sea level. The name “Mingsha” (Singing Sand) originates from the phenomenon where the shifting sands produce a sound akin to singing. Crescent Spring, nestled amidst the encircling Mingsha Mountain, derives its name from its crescent-like shape.
Despite the historical adage that water and sand do not mix, Crescent Spring peacefully resides within this sea of sand. Positioned at the foot of Mingsha Mountain, it is surrounded by sand dunes that, due to the topography, cause windblown sands to flow upwards rather than burying the spring. This unique feature has earned Crescent Spring the title of “the Oasis in the Desert” or “the Eye of the Desert.”
The scenic area offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors, including camel riding, sand sliding, grass sliding, desert motorcycling, archery, and helicopter tours. Camel riding and sand sliding are particularly popular among tourists and are highly recommended experiences.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of the Scenic Area
- Vlog about the Scenic Area
- Other Attractions in East Dunhuang
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Over 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 110 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 5.00 – 20.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0937-8883388 |
Location and Transportation
Located 5 kilometers south of Dunhuang City in Jiuquan, Gansu Province, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring are easily accessible by public transportation and taxi:
Public Bus: Route 3 buses directly connect from downtown Dunhuang to the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring scenic area. The fare is approximately 1 yuan, with buses departing approximately every 10 minutes.
Taxi: Taxis in Dunhuang start at 5 yuan, with fares calculated by the meter. It costs around 10-15 yuan per person to travel from downtown Dunhuang to the scenic area.
Highlights of the Scenic Area
Mingsha Mountain
Mingsha Mountain is flanked to the east by Sanwei Mountain, to the south by Heishi Peak, and to the west by the Gobi and Kumtag Desert. Strong west and north winds carry sand particles that are obstructed by these mountains, causing them to settle and accumulate over time, thus forming Mingsha Mountain. Under the constant force of the wind, Mingsha Mountain retains its height and shape, with its dunes constantly reshaped yet always maintaining their distinctive appearance.
For centuries, Mingsha Mountain has stood as a symbol of Dunhuang’s landscape, renowned for the sound of the singing sands that never cease. Its unique phenomenon of “singing sands in sunny weather” is one of Dunhuang’s Eight Views, contributing to the region’s historical name of “Shazhou” (Sand State). Climbing Mingsha Mountain offers visitors a panoramic view of Crescent Spring and a breathtaking sunset over the vast northwest desert, providing a profound experience of the region’s expansive and majestic natural beauty.
Yueyaquan
Yueyaquan, nestled amidst Mingsha Mountain, is a crescent-shaped clear spring measuring 242 meters in length, resembling a bright crescent moon, hence its name “Crescent Spring”. Known historically as “Sand Well” and also referred to as “Medicine Spring” in ancient times, Crescent Spring owes its formation to loose geological structures, low-lying terrain, and a relatively high regional water table. Structural movements, water flow, and the geological forces of wind all contribute to the conditions that shape Crescent Spring.
Despite the shifting celestial bodies and the howling winds over the dunes, Crescent Spring maintains its pristine beauty with clear, undisturbed waters that do not overflow even after prolonged rains nor dry up during extended droughts. This resilience has earned it the reputation of being the “First Spring in the Desert,” a marvel recognized globally for its natural wonder and serenity amidst the arid landscape of Dunhuang.
Folk Customs Museum
Established in 1988, the Folk Customs Museum covers an area of 4,300 square meters and features ancient castle-style architecture. It showcases the essence of Dunhuang’s folk architecture, daily life customs, and traditional culture. The layout of the museum follows the traditional courtyard style of Dunhuang’s folk houses. It exhibits a large collection of artifacts reflecting modern Dunhuang’s folk production, life, religion, and culture, making it a focal point for showcasing modern Dunhuang folk culture.
Couple Willow Trees
Planted in 1971, the Couple Willow Trees are two desert willows that grew from the same root and lean against each other affectionately, earning them the nickname “Couple Willow Trees.” They have stood the test of time together near Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, becoming a beloved sight for visitors. In 1997, a sandstorm severely damaged the Couple Willow Trees, breaking them at the root. However, with careful nurturing by park staff, they miraculously revived, sprouting new branches and leaves. Today, they stand as a testament to resilience and love, akin to a couple nurturing a new generation.
