Shifting sands bring change

Residents find opportunities in nearby dunes and other natural attractions

Renovated farmhouses line the main street of Dunhuang's Yueyaquan village, which is used on most days by residents to shuttle camels between their stables and the area comprising Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring.

Locals have come to rely on the growing annual number of tourists drawn to the scenic spot, a 15-minute drive south of downtown Dunhuang in Gansu province.