museum
Dunhuang Museum
Dunhuang, China
2-3 hours
About
Core highlights include the restored full-size model of Mogao Cave 45, famous Wei-Jin dynasty brick paintings (the treasure of the museum), Han Dynasty frontier cultural relics, Xuanquan slips, and replicated manuscripts from the Library Cave. Visiting it first helps you systematically understand local history, religion and art, greatly enriching your subsequent cave tour experience.
Travel Tips
- Take Bus No.3 in downtown Dunhuang directly to the museum stop
- Self-driving vehicles can use the on-site paid parking lot (free within 15 minutes, 5 RMB per visit afterwards)
- Free admission with mandatory real-name reservation via official WeChat public account
- Photography is allowed inside exhibition halls, but flash and tripods are forbidden to protect relics
- No food, colored drinks and drones inside the building
- Free luggage storage service is available at the entrance
- Audio guide device can be rented for 20 RMB with deposit
- Arrange this visit in the morning before heading to Mogao Grottoes for better learning logic
Facilities
RestaurantGift ShopPhotography Allowed
AdmissionFree Entry
Opening Hours
MonClosed
Tue08:30 - 18:30
Wed08:30 - 18:30
Thu08:30 - 18:30
Fri08:30 - 18:30
Sat08:30 - 18:30
Sun08:30 - 18:30
Best Time to Visit
May-October for stable weather