Dunhuang to Jiayuguan: 3 Ways from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan (Car, Train & Bus)

Dunhuang to Jiayuguan Distance: 376+ km

How far is Dunhuang to Jiayuguan? The distance between Dunhuang and Jiayuguan ranges from approximately 376 to 384 km, with multiple transportation options available.

Whichever mode of transport you choose, you'll be treated to the vast and awe-inspiring landscapes of northwestern China, featuring snow-capped mountains, wind-swept Gobi deserts, and herds of camels.

1. Dunhuang to Jiayuguan by Private Car: 4 Hours (More Hidden Gems to Explore)

Driving from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan via the highway covers approximately 376 km and takes about 4 hours. This is the most recommended option as it offers the most flexibility and allows you to visit additional Gansu attractions on the way if you wish.

With Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT), we can tailor a perfect itinerary based on your needs, allowing you to stop at will. You don’t need to worry about transportation, accommodations, tickets, or language barriers. Our professional English-speaking guides will accompany you throughout the journey.

Though the distance is long, the scenery along the way is truly spectacular! You’ll witness the snow-capped Qilian Mountains, vast Gobi Desert, camel caravans, and even rivers or trains cutting across the landscape. Here are some of the scenic spots you can add to your itinerary if you want to:

Attractions on the Way from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan

Guazhou Giant Statue Group: In the Gobi Desert near Guazhou (瓜州), Gansu, you'll find a large statue group that includes figures such as Son of the Earth (大地之子：15m long, 9m wide, and 4.3m high), Emperor Liuche (汉武雄风：12.5m high), and Without Boundaries (无界：60m long, 21m high, and 40m wide).

Yulin Grottoes (榆林窟): A significant part of the Dunhuang Caves, known as the "sister caves" to the Mogao Caves, it is a UNESCO world heritage site. Located about 70 km south of Guazhou in the Yulin River Gorge (榆林河峡谷), the site is named after the surrounding forests of elm trees. It features 43 caves spread over 112,850 square meters, with a total mural area of 4,200 square meters.

Suoyang City (锁阳城): a UNESCO World Heritage site in Gansu, founded during the Jin Dynasty and flourished in the Tang Dynasty. It preserves the classic Tang-era city layout with a rectangular shape, 470 meters long and 430 meters wide. The city walls' viewing platform and Ta'er Temple are must-see attractions. It is said that Xuanzang (玄奘) gave sermons at Ta'er Temple for over half a month when he passed through Guazhou.

2. Dunhuang to Jiayuguan by High Speed Train: 2.5-3 hours (Fastest Way)

• Time Required: About 2.5-3 hours
• Price: ¥109 per adult for a one-way ticket
• Departure: Dunhuang Railway Station (敦煌站)
• Arrival: Jiayuguan South Railway Station (嘉峪关南站)

The railway distance between Dunhuang and Jiayuguan is about 384 km, and the high-speed train takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. Trains depart from Dunhuang Railway Station and stop at Guazhou Railway Station (瓜州站) and Yumen Railway Station (玉门站) before arriving at Jiayuguan South Railway Station.

The train route offers views of the snow-capped Qilian Mountains and the desolate Gobi Desert below. This section of the journey is marked by stark, barren beauty.

Tips: However, you'll miss out on a lot of natural scenery and cultural heritage along the way.

Dunhuang to Jiayuguan Train Schedule & Price

Two trains run daily between Dunhuang and Jiayuguan. The following table provides details on specific train numbers, times, and prices.

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Train Type:

All G-train D-train C-train

Depart Time:

All 00:00-06:00 06:00-12:00 12:00-18:00 18:00-24:00

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3. Dunhuang to Jiayuguan by Bus: 4.5 Hours (Slowest Way)

• Time Required: About 4.5 hours
• Price: ¥76-86 per adult for a one-way ticket
• Departure: Dunhuang Bus Station (敦煌汽车站)
• Arrival: Jiayuguan Bus Station (嘉峪关长途汽车站)

The bus journey from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan takes around 4.5 hours, covering approximately 384 km. There are more than 10 buses running between the two cities daily, with departures every 40–50 minutes between 8:30 AM and 8:00 PM. Ticket prices vary depending on the time and bus service.

Tips: Travelling from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan by bus takes the longest time. It is also a bumpy journey with the possibility of stopping to load and unload, so it is the least recommended way.

Note: Bus schedules, departure times, and ticket prices may vary, so it's recommended to check the details on the day of travel.

Tips for Getting from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan

1. For high-speed train travel, choose an F seat for views of the Qilian Mountains or an A seat for views of the Badain Jaran Deserts (巴丹吉林沙漠).
2. If you don’t have a window seat, you can still enjoy the view from the train’s corridor areas.
3. The sun is strong, so prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
4. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, so bring a warm jacket.
5. Wear comfortable walking shoes and outdoor clothing.
6. Sunglasses are essential - both stylish and practical.
7. The climate in Dunhuang and Jiayuguan is dry, so bring skincare products, face masks, lip balm, and hand cream.
8. The distance between Gansu's attractions is considerable, so consider packing motion sickness pills and snacks.

How to Plan a Tour from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan

Dunhuang (2-3 Days)

Plan 2-3 days to explore Gansu Dunhuang’s rich historical and natural wonders. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Dunhuang Mogao Caves (莫高窟), the mesmerizing Singing Sand Dunes (鸣沙山), the serene Crescent Moon Spring (月牙泉), and the striking landscapes of Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark.

Jiayuguan (1 Day)

Gansu's Jiayuguan, a vital hub on the ancient Silk Road, can be toured in one day. Visit the renowned Jiayuguan Pass (嘉峪关关城), marking the Great Wall’s western end and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the dramatic Overhanging Great Wall (悬臂长城) for panoramic views.

Extended Silk Road Tour to Xinjiang

Turpan (1 Day): Spend a day discovering Turpan’s unique heritage sites, including the ancient ruins of Jiaohe (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the ingenious Karez Irrigation System (World Irrigation Project Heritage), and the iconic Emin Minaret.

Urumqi (2 Days): Plan 2 days in Urumqi to visit the serene Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (UNESCO World Heritage site) and explore the Xinjiang Regional Museum, which offers a deep insight into Xinjiang's cultural history.

Kashgar (2-3 Days): Dedicate 2-3 days to Kashgar, exploring the atmospheric Old City with highlights like the Id Kah Mosque and the Ancient Tea House. Visit the vibrant Livestock Market (Sunday only), and take a scenic drive along the China-Pakistan Highway (Karakoram Highway).

Recommended Tours:

8 Days China Silk Road Tour from Dunhuang to Turpan, Urumqi & Kashgar

Suggested Gansu Tour Itinerary

Here is a 6-day classic Gansu Tour itinerary for your reference.

Day 1: Dunhuang Arrival - Free Time Explore

Day 2: Dunhuang Tour - Mogao Grottoes (World Heritage), Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Spring

Day 3: Dunhuang to Jianyuguan - Overhanging Great Wall, Jiayuguan Pass (World Heritage - Great Wall of China)

Day 4: Jiayuguan to Zhangye - Dafo Temple (Big Buddha Temple), Zhangye National Geopark (Zhangye Danxia Geological Park)

Day 5: Zhangye to Lanzhou Tour by High Speed Train - Zhongshan Bridge, White Pagoda Park, Yellow River Mother Statue, Waterwheel Park

Day 6: Lanzhou Departure - Liujiaxia Reservoir (Speedboat), Bingling Temple Grottoes (World Heritage)

Recommended Tours:

6 Days Classic Gansu Tour: Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Zhangye & Lanzhou

Travel from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)

Traveling from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan in Gansu is a journey through the heart of China's ancient Silk Road, offering breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and cultural wonders. Whether you choose to travel by private car, high-speed train, or bus, each option presents unique advantages and opportunities to witness the vast beauty of northwestern China.

With Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT), you can enjoy a stress-free experience tailored to your needs, allowing you to explore additional sights like the Yulin Grottoes and the stunning Qilian Mountains along the way if you wish. Our expert guides and flexible itineraries ensure that your journey is comfortable, enriching, and unforgettable.

Experience the magic of the Silk Road with AOT and immerse yourself in the majestic scenery and deep history that define this remarkable region.