Crescent Moon Spring is only about 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) south of Dunhuang city. It resembles a crescent fallen down into this desert, therefore it was named after its shape, and is also known as "sand well" because it's an oasis. Having been lying among these sand dunes for thousands of years, although given many surprise attacks by sandstorms, Crescent Spring still gurgles clear, and still remains worthy as the first spring in the desert.

 

 

Legend says that the Crescent Moon Spring came to existence after a conflict on a night between the Sand Immortal and the White Cloud Fairy, who won the fight with the help from Chang'e from heaven and the bright moon. After the dust settled, the moon became to the Crescent Moon Spring, and the roars of the Sand Immortal became the echo of the sand on Mingsha Mountain.

 

Actually research has discovered that in this special crescent landform the wind created this depression, as the cross-ventilated theory states, the falling sands from the surrounding mountains would be sent back to the other side of nearby Echoing-Sand Mountains. Thus, the sands do not smother the spring. And this particular earth movement keeps the sand dunes and spring eternally in a harmonious and almost paradoxical existence.

 

Here you can enjoy not only the rare view where an oasis meets the desert, but also some fun sand adventures, such as riding camels, 'dune surfing' sand sliding. After climbing to the top of the dunes, from there you can't help but marvel at the dramatic view. You have discovered the wondrous sight of Crescent Spring!