ICH Study Tour

Dunhuang Color Sculpture Masterclass

6 Days / 5 Nights
Max 12 Travelers
Premium Experience

A Thousand Years of
Silk Road Art

Discover the extraordinary artistic legacy of Dunhuang through exclusive cave access and hands-on sculpture workshops led by a National Intangible Cultural Heritage master sculptor.

Nestled at the crossroads of ancient Silk Road trade routes, Dunhuang's Mogao Caves hold one of humanity's greatest artistic treasures — over 45,000 square meters of murals and 2,000 painted sculptures spanning 1,000 years of Buddhist art.

This immersive 6-day journey takes you beyond the tourist trail to explore caves rarely open to the public, guided by master sculptor Du Yongwei, a National ICH inheritor who has dedicated his life to preserving and continuing Dunhuang's polychrome sculpture tradition.

Exclusive Cave Access

Visit caves not open to the general public, guided by expert scholars with deep knowledge of Buddhist art history.

Master Sculptor Workshop

Create your own polychrome sculpture under the guidance of National ICH master Du Yongwei using traditional techniques.

Authentic Silk Road Culture

Explore the Singing Sand Dunes, learn about traditional falconry, and savor authentic Xinjiang cuisine.

Accommodation

Boutique desert resort with stunning views of the Singing Sand Dunes. Authentic local hospitality.

Meals Included

Daily breakfast, 5 lunches, 5 dinners featuring authentic Silk Road and Xinjiang cuisine.

Duration

6 days / 5 nights. Private group departures available year-round.

Group Size

Maximum 16 travelers. Small groups ensure personalized attention and meaningful connections.

Day by Day
Itinerary

A carefully curated exploration of Dunhuang's artistic heritage, from ancient caves to hands-on sculpture workshops.

Day 1

Arrival in Dunhuang

Welcome to the ancient Silk Road oasis of Dunhuang. Transfer to your boutique desert resort with views of the Singing Sand Dunes. Evening welcome dinner featuring authentic Xinjiang cuisine.
Private Transfer Welcome Dinner Desert Resort
Day 2

Mogao Caves Exploration

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Mogao Caves with exclusive access to caves not typically open to the public. Your expert guide brings 1,000 years of Buddhist art history to life.
Exclusive Cave Access Expert Guide Mogao Museum
Day 3

Sculpture Workshop Begins

Begin your hands-on journey into polychrome sculpture with National ICH master Du Yongwei. Learn the traditional techniques of clay preparation, armature building, and the ancient formulas for mineral pigments.
Master Workshop Traditional Techniques Materials Provided
Day 4

Sculpting Your Masterpiece

Continue your sculpture work with Master Du, focusing on the intricate details that define Dunhuang's distinctive style. Afternoon visit to Echoing Sand Mountain and the Crescent Spring.
Hands-on Sculpting Sand Dunes Camel Ride
Day 5

Finishing Touches & Culture

Complete your sculpture with final details and natural pigments. Visit the Western Thousand Buddha Caves for a different perspective on Dunhuang's artistic heritage. Evening traditional music performance and farewell dinner.
Final Details Western Caves Farewell Dinner
Day 6

Departure

After breakfast, take your completed sculpture home as a unique memento of your Dunhuang experience. Private transfer to Dunhuang Airport for your onward journey.
Take Home Sculpture Airport Transfer

Program Investment

£1,054 / person

What's Included

  • 5 nights accommodation in boutique desert resort
  • Daily breakfast, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
  • All entrance fees and exclusive cave access
  • Master sculptor workshop with all materials
  • Expert art historian guide throughout
  • Your completed polychrome sculpture
Enquire Now
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