kabobs 24/7-Jiayuguan and Dunhuang

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kabobs 24/7-Jiayuguan and Dunhuang

 Asia » China » Gansu » Dunhuang By JessicaVarko
May 20th 2007Obviously dry. Just the facst: Accomodations 100Y, Cab tour of sites 100Y, kabobs and beer 22Y, Would have prefered a guided tour of each site, as it would have enhanced the experience, but oh well. No other Western tourists were sited here. More to come....

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Photos

First Beacon Tower
The only surviving portion of the original Jiayuguan Fort--once used to relay warnings with windborne smoke signals. Steps leading to the Taolai River Gorge--semi-thrilling tourist trap but part of the 'package'--only spent a day in Jiayuguan.

more of the First Beacon Tower
Can't see it but there's a suspension bridge nearby, leading to a model encampment. For a small fee, can jetison across the gorge via zip-line a la Mission Impossible.

Jiayuguan Fort
Stands against the desert, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Built in 1372, traditionally marked the end of the 2000km Great Wall, although at various times extended further west.

Jiayuguan Fort from another angle
If it looks dry, that's because it is! Just ahead, a group of camels awaist intrepid travelers for a romp around the fort. We decided to pass on this excusion.

Jiayuguan Fort-mostly restored
Much of the fort has been restored, some buildings featuring recreations of General's quarters, etc. On site Buddhist temples with trinket shop but without monks!

Overhanging Great Wall
Looks new 'cause it was restored in 1987! View of the Gobi Desert and a dark, surreal waste-land to the north.

Local Market in Jiayuguan
Had our first lamb meal here, although not kabob!

Dunhuang and the Mogao Grottoes
According to legend, in 366 AD, a monk thought he saw 1000 Buddhas, manifested as rays of lights so he immediately decided to create some artwork in a cave in the cliffs to honor the Buddhas. Others followed suit, sponsored by wealthy patrons, resulting in more than 1000 caves--over 11 different dynasties.

Mogao Grottoes-no pictures allowed!
Not too many caves available for viewing although the tour gives a sampling of several dynasties. Guide was very informative. Check out this website for more info. Truely Amazing!
http://www.chinamuseums.com/dunhuang_mogao.htm
http://www.getty.edu/conservation/field_projects/mogao/