Dunhuang UNESCO Global Geopark, located in Gansu Province, China, is a remarkable natural and cultural treasure.

Spanning an area of 2,180.75 square kilometres, it encompasses the Yadan Scenic Area, the Singing Sand (Mingsha) Mountains, natural landscape sightseeing areas, and cultural relics sightseeing areas. This vast park is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region.

Two natural wonders of the Gobi Desert are the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring. Crescent Spring was one of the eight scenic spots in Dunhuang during the Han Dynasty (202 BC–220 AD). In 2015, it was promoted to a national 5A scenic spot, the highest rating for tourist attractions in China.

Mingsha Mountain, a massive desert formation, stretches 40 kilometres with an average height of about 100 meters. Its unique composition of sand accumulation creates an awe-inspiring landscape. Nestled beneath this sand mountain is Crescent Spring, a true desert miracle. The existence of water in such an arid environment, without being buried by the encroaching sands, is nothing short of miraculous.

The relationship between Crescent Spring and Mingsha Mountain is symbiotic. Without Crescent Spring, Mingsha Mountain would be just another vast desert; without Mingsha Mountain, Crescent Spring would lose much of its charm. The golden dunes juxtaposed with the blue water create a harmonious and striking contrast. Crescent Spring, a crescent-shaped lake in an oasis, was named during the Qing Dynasty(1644–1911).

The spring, resembling a crescent moon, has been nestled in the bosom of Mingsha Mountain for over 2,000 years. Many people wonder how this spring maintains its water levels in the middle of the desert year-round. Historically, Crescent Spring's water source has been connected to the Danghe River, an ancient waterway located to the west of the spring.

The Danghe River, which originates in the Qilian Mountains, is revered as the mother river by the people of Dunhuang. Its flow is primarily fed by the melting snow and ice from these mountains. As the river's water seeps into the ground, it transforms into groundwater, which in turn sustains Crescent Spring.

The historical connection between Crescent Spring and the Danghe River is through underground channels. The soft sand layer at the bottom of Crescent Spring allows the water levels to be maintained as long as the Danghe River's water level is sufficient.

Visiting Crescent Spring, one cannot help but marvel at the wonders of nature. The vastness of the desert, which seems endless, underscores the smallness of humanity. The golden desert, appearing almost like silk under the sun, is particularly magnificent. A gazebo next to the spring provides a resting spot for visitors, offering a picturesque view where the sand mountain and the clear spring enhance each other's beauty.

Overall, one not only wonders the strange co-existence of an oasis and a desert, but also the opportunity to have great sand adventures. One would definitely marvel at the dramatic view at the top of the dunes.