Cantilever Great Wall

Introducing the Cantilever Great Wall

Located on the northern slope of Heishan Mountain, north of the Shiguan Gorge, 8 kilometers north of Jiayuguan Pass, to strengthen the defenses of Jiayuguan, Li Han, the military governor of Suzhou, oversaw the construction of a 15-kilometer-long stone and earth wall, starting from the hilltop south of the gorge, beyond the dark wall. This wall further strengthened the defenses of the pass, and became known in ancient times as the "Broken Wall Great Wall."

Because the wall cascades down the mountain, it resembles the Great Wall hanging upside down on the ridge, a dangling iron wall plunging down the mountainside and sealing off the Shiguan Gorge. It's commonly known as the "Hanging Wall Great Wall." Parapets and abutments were added to the wall's summit, with piers added at each end. Stepped paths were constructed between the pier and the hillside. Visitors ascend the steps, feeling as if they were walking on flat ground in the flat areas and as if they were climbing a cliff in the steeper areas. It's quite similar to the Badaling Great Wall in Beijing. A poem praises it: "The Great Wall, a thousand-mile pass, a thousand-mile barrier, a dark cliff hanging over the dark mountains."

Tickets

The 120 yuan Jiayu-related ticket includes the cantilevered Great Wall attraction

Purchase separately

Peak season (May 1st - October 31st): 22 yuan

Off-season (November 1st - April 30th): 11 yuan

Attraction opening hours

8:30-20:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Cantilever Great Wall

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Cantilever Great Wall is a unique and lesser-known section of the Great Wall, located in Jiayuguan. It was constructed during the Ming Dynasty and is one of the most strategically important parts of the wall, guarding the western pass into China. Its cantilevered design is a remarkable engineering feat that allowed it to be built over a cliff for better defense.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Cantilever Great Wall is located in Jiayuguan, in Gansu Province, China. It is accessible by taxi or car from the Jiayuguan Railway Station or the Jiayuguan Airport, about 15 km away. There are also local buses that go to the attraction from the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Cantilever Great Wall is typically open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for the Cantilever Great Wall is about 40 RMB (approximately 6 USD). Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through the official Jiayuguan tourism website or travel agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak seasons such as Chinese New Year or the summer months. In these cases, booking at least a few days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the Cantilever Great Wall in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest in taking photographs and enjoying the views.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The cantilevered section of the wall, where the wall extends over the cliff.
• The observation tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert and the Great Wall itself.
• The nearby Jiayuguan Fort, an important landmark in the western part of the Great Wall.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides in several languages, including English, are also available for a small fee at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The observation tower at the Cantilever Great Wall offers the best panoramic views.
• Near the edge of the cliff where the wall cantilevers, providing dramatic photographs of the wall extending over the edge.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance, head towards the cantilevered section, and explore the scenic walk along the wall.
• Climb up to the observation tower to get the best views of the area.
• Finish by visiting Jiayuguan Fort, located nearby.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at the Cantilever Great Wall. However, the area is beautifully lit in the evenings, and some special tours may be available during peak seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Cantilever Great Wall can get crowded during the summer months and public holidays. The least crowded times are in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly during weekdays in the off-season (winter and spring).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has toilets, water fountains, and rest areas. There are also a few souvenir shops selling local crafts and snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The main walking paths are accessible, though some areas of the wall, especially the cantilevered section, may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It's best to check with the local authorities for any specific accessibility concerns.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Chinese Yuan) is accepted, but many places also accept mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay). Credit cards are not widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are a few local restaurants near the Jiayuguan Fort offering traditional Chinese cuisine.
• Some small cafes near the Great Wall offer snacks and drinks, but more options can be found in the Jiayuguan city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants in Jiayuguan, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It's a good idea to check the menu or ask the staff in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Jiayuguan International Hotel, located close to the Jiayuguan Railway Station, offers comfortable accommodations.
• The Jiayuguan Great Wall Hotel is another option, offering convenient access to the Cantilever Great Wall.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Jiayuguan Fort, located near the Cantilever Great Wall, is a must-see landmark.
• The Overhanging Great Wall, another section of the Great Wall with unique features, is nearby.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the Cantilever Great Wall selling items like local crafts, postcards, and small replicas of the Great Wall.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the Cantilever Great Wall, you can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or private car to nearby attractions such as Jiayuguan Fort, or take a bus or train to other cities in Gansu Province.