Jiayuguan Pass

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Scenic Spot Introduction

Jiayuguan Pass, originally built in the fifth year of Hongwu in the Ming Dynasty (1372), stands as the westernmost pass of the Great Wall, earning the reputation of “the most magnificent pass in the world.” With its unique geographical location, comprehensive defense system, and exquisite architectural art, the pass serves as an outstanding representative of ancient military defensive architecture. Nestled in the narrowest part of the Hexi Corridor, Jiayuguan is flanked by the Qilian Mountains in the south and Heishan in the north, with only 15 kilometers separating the two mountain ranges. This strategic location made it a vital thoroughfare on the ancient Silk Road, holding an extremely important strategic position.

The fortress complex consists of inner and outer cities, a surrounding wall, a barbican, and a moat, forming a rigorous defensive system. The walls, 11.7 meters high and with a perimeter of 733 meters, cover an area of 33,500 square meters. Built entirely of rammed yellow earth and encased in brick, they are exceptionally sturdy. Structures such as towers, arrow towers, and turrets are well-arranged, featuring upturned eaves and impressive architecture. In particular, Guanghua Tower, Rouyuan Tower, and Jiayuguan Tower are arranged in a “pin” shape, forming the main architectural group of the pass.

As a critical component of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall defense system, Jiayuguan not only possesses significant military value but also testifies to the prosperity of the ancient Silk Road. This place once served as a vital hub for cultural exchanges between the East and the West, leaving a wealth of precious historical artifacts and ruins. Within the pass, relics from the Ming Dynasty such as inscribed tablets, plaques, and weapons are preserved, along with intact ancient military facilities like horse paths, enemy towers, and beacon towers.

In 1961, Jiayuguan was listed as one of the first batch of key cultural relics protection units in China. In 1987, it was included in the World Cultural Heritage List as an essential part of the Great Wall.

景点介绍

In recent years, the local government has invested heavily in protective renovations, breathing new life into this ancient pass city. Today, Jiayuguan is not only an important historical and cultural heritage site but also a significant base for studying ancient military defense systems and Silk Road culture, attracting millions of visitors every year.

必游景点

  1. Jiayuguan City Tower

    • Tower Architecture
    • Defense of the Barbican
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

  2. Overhanging Wall

    • Unique Architecture
    • Observation Platform
    • Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes

  3. The Great Wall Museum

    • Cultural Relics Exhibition
    • Historical Introduction
    • Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes

  4. Guanghua Tower

    • Ancient Beacon Tower
    • Scenic Viewpoint
    • Suggested visiting time: 30 minutes

参观建议

  1. Best Touring Route

    • City Tower → Overhanging Wall
    • Museum → Guanghua Tower
    • It is advisable to visit in sequence

  2. Visiting Schedule

    • Depart in the morning
    • Avoid noon
    • Sunset is the most beautiful

  3. Practical Tips

    • Sunscreen is essential
    • Wear comfortable shoes
    • Bring enough drinking water

交通指南

  • Airplane: Jiayuguan Airport
  • Train: Jiayuguan Station
  • Bus: Line 6, Tourism Dedicated Line
  • Self-drive: 20 minutes from the city center

周边美食推荐

  1. Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles
  2. Hexi Lamb
  3. Gobi Desert Specialties
  4. Yugur Ethnic Group Cuisine

特别提醒

  1. Sunscreen is a must
  2. Wear comfortable footwear
  3. Bring adequate drinking water
  4. Avoid noon
  5. Stay safe
  6. Protect cultural relics
  7. Ideal for photography
  8. Book tickets ahead of time