鸣沙山月牙泉
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake
Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring is located about 5 kilometers south of Dunhuang City. The sand mountains surround the crescent spring. The sand and springs have coexisted for thousands of years and are known as "the most beautiful scenery outside the Great Wall". The highlights are: Crescent Moon Spring: a crescent-shaped spring in the desert. The Yuequan Pavilion beside the spring stands next to the water, which is the soul of the scenic spot. Mingsha Mountain: Climb the sand mountain to the top for a panoramic view of the Crescent Spring, and watch the sunset in the desert in the evening. This is the best filming location.
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鸣沙山月牙泉
Address available on the linked map.
Before you go
Check the essentials before you visit
- Booking
- Confirm reservation requirements
- Admission notes
- Check official information
- Suggested visit
- 3 hr
- Information updated
- 10/2/2026
Hours, prices, booking rules and ID requirements can change. Confirm them with the attraction before booking or setting out.
Opening hours
Confirmed opening hours are not available on this page. Check opening and last-entry times with the venue before setting out.
Getting there
When entering the park, you must navigate to the "middle gate", which is closest to Crescent Moon Spring and Shashan Mountain, while the east gate and west gate are further away. There is a free bus from the middle gate of the scenic area to Shazhou Night Market.
Practical notes
The best time to enter the park is to watch the sunset after 4 p.m. to avoid being exposed to the sun at noon and burning your feet in the sand. You must bring sandproof shoe covers, sunglasses, and high-power sunscreen; the temperature difference between day and night is large, so be sure to wear a jacket when viewing the night view. Please refer to the latest official announcement for opening, reservation and ticketing arrangements.
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