Echoing-Sand Mountain

Situated 5 km south of Dunhuang city, the Mingsha (Singing Sand Dunes) Mountain is celebrated for the sound of the moving sand. It is 800 square kilometers in size, stretching 40 km from east to west and 20 km from south to the north. The main peak is 1,715 meters above sea level.

Echoing-Sand Mountain is famous for the sounds the wind makes when blowing over the dunes. Also, the sand is said to be rather noisy when tread upon. The dunes are also famous for their size, some reaching 100m or more, relatively stable despite the fact that the dunes beyond the mountains shift frequently. Also, the sands are said to regain form overnight if tread upon the day before.

The most marvelous experience is climbing to the top of the dune. Though a sweaty work, the dramatic view from the top makes the effort worthwhile. It is a popular activity to ride sleds down the sand slopes, much like snow-sledding in winter. The tremendous sound is produced when sliding down along the sands. It is really a wonderfully experience and will leave you an enduring memory.