By Dunhuang & Jiuquan Guide Team | Published 2026-07-01 | Updated 2026-08-07
Transportation
How to Get to Dunhuang & Jiuquan
Every way to reach the Silk Road: flights, trains, buses, and driving routes. Pros and cons for each option, with current prices.
Getting to Dunhuang
By Air (2-4 hours from major cities, CNY 500-2000)
- Dunhuang Mogao International Airport (DNH) has domestic flights from Beijing, Xi'an, Lanzhou, Chengdu, and Urumqi
- Most international travelers fly into Lanzhou (LHW) and connect by train (6-8 hours)
- Airport is 13 km from Dunhuang city center. Airport shuttle bus CNY 10, taxi CNY 30-40
By High-Speed Train (6-8 hours from Lanzhou, CNY 300-400)
- Dunhuang Station is 10 km from city center. Bus No. 3 connects to the city (CNY 2)
- High-speed line opened in 2023. Connects to Lanzhou, Zhangye, and Jiayuguan/Jiuquan
- Book on Trip.com or at the station. Second class seats are comfortable with AC
By Long-Distance Bus (12-14 hours from Lanzhou, CNY 150-200)
- Overnight sleeper buses available from Lanzhou Bus Station
- Slower and less comfortable than trains. Use only if trains are sold out
- Dunhuang Bus Station is on Mingshan Road in the city center
Dunhuang to Jiuquan: Route Comparison
| Method | Duration | Cost (CNY) |
|---|---|---|
| High-Speed TrainBest | 2.5 hours | CNY 150-200 |
| Long-Distance Bus | 5-6 hours | CNY 60-80 |
| Private Car | 4-5 hours | CNY 600-900 |
| Flight | 1 hour | CNY 800-1500 |
The high-speed train is the clear winner for most travelers. Book on Trip.com, Ctrip, or at the station.