Echoing-Sand Mountain

Ticket: CNY120 in peak seasons, CNY60 in low seasons.

Opening time: approximately 08:00-17:00 (adjusted in different seasons).

The Singing Sand Dune, also known as Mingsha Hill, is a remarkable natural wonder located near Dunhuang, China. Stretching from the Mogao Grottoes in the east, this unique landscape spans approximately 40 kilometers from east to west and 20 kilometers from south to north. The Singing Sand Dune and Crescent Spring scenic spots, situated around 7 kilometers from downtown Dunhuang, collectively cover an area of approximately 200 square kilometers.

The Singing Sand Dune is renowned for its elegant shape and distinctive feature: the singing sound it produces when people interact with its surface. The dune is composed of sand in five striking colors: red, yellow, green, black, and white, creating a visually captivating spectacle. Despite its name, the sand doesn’t actually produce sound on its own; rather, the singing effect occurs when people walk or slide on its surface, resulting in a phenomenon that has been described as “an astonishing sound of nature.”

When visitors slide down the steep slopes of the sand dunes, they are treated to a breathtaking experience akin to gliding down shimmering brocades or watching golden dragons dance in the air. The sand grains cascade and shift, accompanied by the melodic singing sound that echoes through the desert landscape. Remarkably, the sound resembles traditional Chinese musical instruments, adding to the enchantment of the surroundings.

The Singing Sand Dune’s name aptly reflects this remarkable auditory experience, which has captivated visitors for generations. It stands as a testament to the beauty and mystery of nature, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its harmonious blend of sight and sound amidst the vast expanse of the desert terrain.