Crescent Moon Spring

In the same area with the Echoing Sand Dune in Dunhuang is the shallow spring fed Crescent Moon Spring, also known as Crescent Moon Lake, which forms an oasis at the desert's edge. The spring’s crescent moon shape gives it its name, and the pool is able to withstand the extreme dryness of the Gobi, refusing to dry up.

A peculiar natural phenomenon occurs when standing on top of the sand dune. If it's a windless day, a sound similar to a flute can be heard, but if there are many people descending the dune at once it becomes a thunderclap. The corresponding legend goes that a horrific sand storm buried an army that rested at this oasis and the sounds heard are those of the buried men trying to claw their way to freedom. It's best to go there in the late afternoon when it's a lot cooler.

Admission Fee: CNY 120 (together with Echoing Sand Dune)
Opening Hours: 06:00-17:50
Time needed for a visit: around 1 hour

Other Dunhuang Attractions to know more about China Silk Road

Yumen Pass Yangguan Pass