Overview
The Singing Sand Dunes, also known as Mingsha Shan, are a remarkable natural phenomenon where the sand dunes produce a singing or whistling sound when the wind blows or when people walk on them. Located near the ancient Silk Road city of Dunhuang, these dunes are a popular tourist attraction.
The Singing Sand Dunes are a unique natural wonder and a popular spot for visitors to experience the unusual phenomenon of singing sand.
Location
Address
Dunhuang, China
Neighborhood: Mingsha
Coordinates
39.918500, 94.293200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
Spring and Autumn
Best Time of Day
Morning
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Wildflowers
- • Mild temperatures
summer
Hot
- • Long daylight hours
autumn
Cool
- • Fall colors
- • Cooler temperatures
winter
Cold
- • Occasional snow on dunes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring plenty of water
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate
- • Dehydration
- • Heatstroke (summer)
- • Hypothermia (winter)
Medical facilities: Basic first aid available, nearest hospital 15 km away
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, Layered clothing, comfortable shoes for walking on sand, Walking shoes or hiking boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least a few days in advance
- • Official website or authorized vendors
- • Varies by vendor
- • Available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Dunhuang Mingsha Shan Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Weather updates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Nearby restaurants
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Dunhuang Airport (DNH)
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique natural wonder, important historical significance along the Silk Road
Historical Significance: Part of the ancient Silk Road route, historically significant for trade and cultural exchange
Insider Tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best singing sand experience
- Bring a scarf to protect against blowing sand
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Crescent Lake and Mogao Caves
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Gansu cuisine at nearby restaurants
- • Visit Crescent Lake adjacent to the dunes
- • Explore the ancient Mogao Caves nearby
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Chinese, English, Other languages may be available
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Top of the dunes
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the vastness
Result: Stunning landscape photos
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Crescent Lake
Distance: 0.5km
Walking: 10 min
Type: Natural
Mogao Caves
Distance: 8km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Historical
Dunhuang Museum
Distance: 5km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Arrive early to avoid crowds"
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Combine with a visit to Crescent Lake"
- "Wear comfortable shoes"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
48
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
¥130