Things To Do
in Shazhou
Shazhou is a historic oasis settlement in northwest China, part of the greater Dunhuang/Shazhou region that once sat on the Silk Road. The town and surrounding landscape combine desert vistas, ancient cultural sites and small oasis agriculture, offering a mix of natural scenery and Silk Road heritage. Visitors come for dramatic sand dunes, local folk culture and access to nearby attractions such as grottoes and yardang formations.
Shazhou is relatively quiet and remote, best appreciated by travelers who value landscape photography, history and low‑key rural hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples that dot the historic center of Shazhou, where the morning sun casts a warm glow on the intricate architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys, soaking in the rich history and culture that surrounds you. Don’t forget to stop by a local tea shop for a refreshing cup of green tea to energize you for the day ahead.
After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, explore the vibrant marketplace where you can browse exquisite handicrafts and sample regional delicacies. Engage with the friendly locals who are eager to share stories about their heritage and traditions. As the afternoon sun warms your back, visit the ancient city wall and take in panoramic views of the cityscape.
As dusk settles in, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local eatery, where you can savor famous Shazhou dishes like steamed dumplings and spicy hotpot. Afterward, stroll along the riverside promenade, where you can watch locals practicing tai chi and find a perfect spot to enjoy the evening breeze. Conclude your day by attending a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the river for a scenic boat tour of Shazhou’s waterways. As you glide along the calm waters, admire the lush greenery and quaint villages that line the riverbanks. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning landscapes and traditional fishing boats navigating the waters.
After the boat tour, disembark at a local fishing village where you can learn about traditional fishing techniques and even try your hand at casting a net. Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch at a local eatery, where the catch of the day is served straight from the water. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, chatting with fishermen, and purchasing handcrafted souvenirs.
Return to the city just in time for dinner, where you can explore a different aspect of Shazhou cuisine, perhaps trying a famous local barbecue. After dining, wander through the night market, filled with stalls offering everything from street food to handmade crafts. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, listen to street performers, and sample various tasty treats as you meander through the bustling crowd.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-10 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🛌Budget hotel / guesthouse (per night) | $20-50 |
| 🚍Local bus / short taxi ride | $0.50-5 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Silk Road history and cultural heritage nearby
- Spectacular desert landscapes and photography opportunities
- Quiet, low‑tourist atmosphere good for relaxation and reflection
- Unique local produce (oasis fruits) and simple authentic cuisine
- Remote location with limited services and infrastructure
- Language barrier—English is uncommon outside tourist settings
- Weather extremes (heat, cold, wind and dust) can challenge travel plans
- Fewer dining and nightlife options compared with larger cities
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxie)" - Thank you
- "请问……在哪里？ (Qǐngwèn... zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is...?
- "多少钱？ (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much?
- "我不吃肉 (Wǒ bù chī ròu)" - I don't eat meat
- "厕所在哪？ (Cèsuǒ zài nǎ?)" - Where is the toilet?
- "可以便宜点吗？ (Kěyǐ piányi diǎn ma?)" - Can it be cheaper?
- "请帮帮我 (Qǐng bāng bāng wǒ)" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Shazhou
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light and long shadows make dunes dramatic for landscape and silhouette photos; best visited at dawn or dusk for color and cooler temperatures.
Photograph narrow shaded streets, orchard rows and irrigation channels that show the contrast between green oasis life and surrounding desert.
Wind-sculpted badlands with striking shapes and textures—excellent for abstract landscape shots and wide-angle vistas.
Far from urban lights, the desert offers clear, star-filled skies—ideal for astrophotography and Milky Way shots on moonless nights.
Candid market scenes, colorful fruit displays and food preparation provide authentic street photography opportunities.
Food in Shazhou
Shazhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh noodles served in broth or stir-fried, often with local mutton or vegetables; available at small noodle shops in town.
Must-Try!
Simple, charred lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and chili—common street food at markets and night stalls.
Locally grown melons and grapes are a highlight when in season—sold at markets and roadside stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small evening markets where you can try grilled skewers, flatbreads, fried pastries and fresh fruit; bargaining is casual and friendly.
Daytime markets selling seasonal melons, grapes and dried fruits—great for picnic supplies and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Buddhist grottoes or local mosques, dress modestly, speak quietly and follow site rules (no flash photography where prohibited).
A simple 'ni hao' (你好) or nod goes a long way; using basic Mandarin phrases is appreciated—avoid loud or disruptive behavior in small towns.
Bargaining is acceptable at markets and for souvenirs but less so in fixed-price shops and restaurants—be polite and light-hearted while negotiating.
If invited into a private home, it’s polite to remove shoes and accept refreshments; small gifts such as fruit or snacks are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Shazhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most local shops and small eateries; for guided tours or drivers a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory—rounding up or offering 10% for exceptional service is fine.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) dominate in many Chinese towns, but in remote or small businesses cash (RMB) is still widely used. Bring some cash for markets, rural vendors and desert excursions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring can bring pleasant daytime temperatures but also strong winds and occasional sandstorms—carry layered clothing and a face mask or scarf for dust.
Hot and sunny, with daytime temperatures that can be high; mornings and evenings are more comfortable—stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early/late hours.
Often the most pleasant travel season: mild days, cool nights and clearer skies—great for hiking, photography and cultural visits.
Cold with strong diurnal temperature swings; clear skies but potentially freezing nights—prepare warm layers and expect reduced tourist services in the harshest months.
Shazhou at Night
Hiking in Shazhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short trails and paths around dunes and the famous Crescent Lake provide easy-to-moderate hikes with scenic views and oasis photography opportunities.
Marked viewpoints and walking routes among sculpted rock formations—best explored with a guide to safely navigate terrain and maximize photo opportunities.
Ungraded desert routes for experienced hikers offer solitude and dramatic vistas; bring navigation tools, water and go with a guide or group.
If combining a trip with regional mountain ranges, there are longer trekking options in higher terrain—visit in cooler months and prepare for altitude and temperature changes.
Airports
How to reach Shazhou by plane.
The closest regional airport serving Dunhuang and the greater Shazhou area—offers flights to regional hubs. From the airport you can get to town by taxi or arranged shuttle; travel times vary depending on exact location.
A larger regional airport reachable by road; may offer additional flight connections—expect a bus or taxi transfer to reach Shazhou.
Another regional option for travelers combining Shazhou with visits to the Hexi Corridor—ground transport required to reach Shazhou.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in the region; Han culture and language predominate in daily life and commerce.
Hui Muslim minorities are present in many northwest towns, contributing halal food options and distinct cultural practices.
Small numbers of other ethnic groups associated with the broader Gansu region may be encountered, reflecting Silk Road diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is popular across China and commonly played in schoolyards and community courts in the region.
Local teams and informal matches are common; football is a widespread pastime among young people.
In desert communities and during cultural events, horse and camel riding, and related demonstrations, reflect local heritage and tourist activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shazhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited—ask for plain noodles, stir-fried seasonal vegetables and tofu dishes; mention 'wo bu chi rou' (我不吃肉) to avoid meat. Carry snacks for remote outings.
Hui Muslim vendors and halal eateries are often available; look for shops that display halal signs or ask locals for recommendations.
Chinese-language cards listing allergies can help; in rural towns English is limited, so prepare translations and bring staple supplies if you have strict requirements.