Dunhuang Museum

Introducing Dunhuang Museum
Dunhuang Museum is a regional museum. Dunhuang Museum was established in 1979. Dunhuang Museum covers a construction area of 7,500 square meters. It meticulously preserves over 13,400 cultural relics spanning from the Neolithic era to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties. With its diverse collection and curated exhibits, it offers visitors a captivating glimpse into ancient civilizations of the region.

Dunhuang Museum Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: DūnHuángShì BóWùGuǎn 敦煌市博物馆
• Best Time to Visit: All year around
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 – 2 Hours
• Things to Do: Culture; Architecture
• Opening Hours: 9:00 – 18:30 (May – Sept), 9:00 – 18:00 (Oct – Apr); Dunhuang Museum is closed on Mondays, except the Chinese statutory holidays
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 1390 Beishan Road, Dunhuang City, Gansu Province

What to expect at Dunhuang Museum

The Dunhuang Museum mirrors the thriving social progress and cultural interchange between China and the West during Dunhuang’s prominence as a pivotal hub along the Silk Road. Visiting the museum offers a deeper insight into the history and culture of the Chinese people and their ancient civilization.

The museum showcases exhibits in three sections. The first section displays written sutras from the Mogao Caves, illustrating Buddhist activities in Chinese history. The second section features relics from the Han (202 BC-220 AD), Jin (266-420), Sui (581-618), and Tang (618-907) dynasties, including stone pagodas, pottery boxes, and kylin (a mythical creature from Chinese folklore) bricks believed to ward off evil. The third section highlights Dunhuang’s cultural prosperity with silk brocade, bamboo writing slips, and iron and bronze tools. Dunhuang Museum also displays locally excavated relics like paper and coins, providing fascinating insights into the historical significance and cultural heritage of Dunhuang and its surrounding areas.

How to get to Dunhuang Museum

• By Bus: Take bus 3 to Museum Station.
• On foot: Enjoy a 1.5 km (0.93 mile) walk from Dunhuang City center to the Dunhuang Museum.