3 Days Jiayuguan Dunhuang Tour by High-speed Train
Tour Overview
Welcome to our 3-day immersive Jiayuguan and Dunhuang tour. This carefully crafted itinerary focuses on two iconic cities in the Hexi Corridor, which are key stops on the legendary Silk Road trade route.
You will first arrive at Jiayuguan, which is located in the narrowest part of the Hexi Corridor. The Jiayuguan Pass is undoubtedly the most popular attraction, known as the “Number One Pass in the World”. It is the westernmost end of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall and controls the passage to ancient China. In addition, the Wei Jin Tombs located deep in the Gobi Desert is an “underground art palace” with colorful brick paintings. Traveling westward via the modern miracle high-speed train (Jiayuguan train to Dunhuang), you arrive at the oasis city of Dunhuang, located on the very western edge of the Hexi Corridor at the entrance of the Taklamakan Desert. For centuries, Dunhuang has been an important crossroads and haven for Silk Road travelers, merchants, and monks.
The must-see attractions in Dunhuang include the Mogao Caves, which feature world-renowned Buddhist murals, as well as the desert wonders of Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring. Of course, Dunhuang snacks are also one of the best experiences. The tour guide will take you to visit the largest night market in Dunhuang – Shazhou Night Market, and catch a glimpse of the city’s nightlife.
Travel destinations: Jiayuguan, Dunhuang
Suitable for: History and Culture Explorers
Tour type: Private
Highlights of this tour:
- Climb up one of the historical gateways on the Silk Road ā Jiayuguan Pass, known as the “Number One Pass in the World”. Visit its powerful defensive fortifications and learn about its role in trade and security along the Silk Road.
- Step into an Underground Art Gallery – Wei Jin Tombs, marveling at the beautiful brick murals lining the walls and ceilings that depict vivid scenes of daily life, mythology, hunting, farming, banquets, and celestial beings.
- Explore the Buddhist Art Treasure Trove – Mogao Caves. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it houses the world’s largest and most exquisitely preserved Buddhist murals and sculptures. This is a must-see on a Dunhuang tourāā.
- Appreciate the wonders of the desert – a crescent-shaped spring surrounded by sand dunes and never dried up. Experience fun desert activities, from sand sliding and camel riding to desert off-road vehicles.
- Night stroll around the Shazhou Night Market to taste the grilled naan, lamb/beef skewers, and other Dunhuang specialty snacks.
Day-by-day Itinerary
- Day 1: Jiayuguan ArrivalTrace Silk Road Relics through Fortress and Tombs
After arriving at Jiayuguan (it is recommended that you arrive before 10:30 in the morning), a professional guide will pick you up and then you will be led to the Jiayuguan Pass, known as the "Number One Strongest Pass in the World". This fortress at the western end of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall was once the throat of the Silk Road. Ascending the fort, you can overlook the magnificent scenery of the Gobi Desert.
Later, go to visit the Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum, where exhibition halls show the history of the Great Wall. Among them, the 220 square meter oil painting is particularly amazing.
After lunch, we head to explore the Weijin Tombs deep in the Gobi Desert. Currently, only No. 6 Tomb of this "underground art palace" is open to the public. The colorful paintings on the tomb walls vividly depict the life of the aristocrats 1600 years ago. The bright colors and fine brushstrokes will impress you. The guide will deeply interpret the military, trade, and cultural stories behind these relics. After the visit, escort you to the hotel to check in.
Meal: Lunch
Accommodation: Overnight in Jiayuguan
Join China Xian Tour team to Visit Jiayuguan Pass - Day 2: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang by High-speed TrainHave Fun at Dragon-like Dunes, Savor Dunhuang's Fiery Skewers
In the morning, you will be picked up by a private car to the train station and take a 2.5-hour high-speed train to Dunhuang from Jiayuguan. After arriving at the station, the local English-speaking guide will meet you with a welcome sign. Then have lunch and check in at the hotel.
In the afternoon, Dunhuang exploration starts at a natural wonder - Echoing-Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake. The scene of sand spring symbiosis is breathtaking - the sand dunes are like giant dragons crouching, and the clear spring is like a crescent untainted by dust. There are also many entertainment projects for you to experience at your own expense, such as camel riding, desert off-road vehicles, and sand sliding (free of charge).
As the night falls, go to the famous Shazhou Night Market in Dunhuang. This is different from conventional tourist districts, where you can deeply feel the vitality of this Silk Road small town amidst the fireworks of grilled naan and lamb skewers.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: Overnight in Dunhuang
Experience riding a camel - Day 3: Dunhuang DepartureāExplore Buddhist Masterpieces at Mogao Caves
Today's Dunhuang itinerary will take you to visit the Mogao Grottoes, known as the "Oriental Louvre". As the world's most complete collection of Buddhist art, this place houses 735 caves, 45000 square meters of exquisite murals, around 2400 colored sculptures, and over 4500 graceful flying Apsaras. The remains of five wooden buildings from the Tang and Song dynasties, along with thousands of carved flagstones and stone pillars, together form this 'Art Museum in the Desert'.
It's time to say goodbye. Your 3-day Jiayuguan and Dunhuang tour has come to an end here. The driver and guide will take you to Dunhuang Airport/train station for departure. If you want to extend your journey to Xinjiang, such as Turpan and Urumqi, we are happy to customize an ideal itinerary for you.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: N/A
Nine-Storey Temple in Mogao Grottoes
Tour Price Per Person
The priceĀ varies depending on the activity, number of people, travel date, and selected hotel. Please contact us for a specific price.
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