Yumen Pass

Introducing Yumen Pass

Yumen Pass is a scenic spot on the way to Yadan. Currently, only a small square city built of rammed earth and a museum are left. Apart from this pass, there is a desolate and lonely desert on all sides. In the distance is the Great Wall of Han (currently the best preserved in China). This place is also considered by many domestic scholars to be a granary for border defense, Hecang City.

Climate and best time to travel

May to October every year

Most of Dunhuang has a temperate continental climate, characterized by dry weather, little rainfall, high evaporation, large temperature differences between day and night, and long sunshine hours.

The four seasons here are distinct: warm and windy spring, scorching hot summer, cool autumn and cold winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

The existing remains include 2 city sites, 20 beacon towers, and 18 sections of the Great Wall. The Xiaofangpan City Site, Dafangpan City Site, and the Han Great Wall sites around Danggu Beacon Tower are open to tourists.

Tickets

40.00 yuan

Attraction opening hours

08:00~18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yumen Pass

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

Yumen Pass, located in Gansu Province, China, was historically one of the most important passes on the ancient Silk Road. It marked the westernmost point of the Great Wall of China and served as a key entry point for merchants and travelers between China and Central Asia. Its strategic location made it a crucial military defense point, and it was pivotal in the spread of culture, ideas, and goods along the Silk Road.

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

Yumen Pass is located about 90 kilometers west of Jiuquan city in Gansu Province. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Jiuquan, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. There are no metro services, and walking around the site is the best way to experience its historical remnants and desert surroundings.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open year-round, with typical visiting hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, and winter may be cold, so these seasons might be less comfortable for outdoor exploration.

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

The entrance fee for Yumen Pass is typically around 40 RMB (6 USD). Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Some travel agencies or online booking platforms may offer ticket purchases in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (especially during holidays or from April to October). Booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient if visiting during off-peak times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting Yumen Pass typically takes about 1-2 hours. If you're interested in exploring the surrounding desert and walking along the ancient walls, you might spend a bit more time (up to 3 hours).

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

• The ancient gate of Yumen Pass, which is well-preserved and offers insight into the past military fortifications.
• The Yumen Pass Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Silk Road era and the historical significance of the pass.
• The surrounding desert landscape, perfect for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

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

Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin, though some guides may speak basic English. Audio guides are not widely offered, so booking a local guide may enhance the experience, especially for understanding the historical context.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The ancient walls and gates provide great vantage points for photographs against the backdrop of the desert.
• The surrounding desert and sand dunes offer picturesque landscapes, particularly during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon).

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the Yumen Pass Museum to understand the history of the site.
• Next, walk along the ancient pass and the remnants of the city walls.
• Conclude your visit by taking in the desert landscape and enjoying the surrounding nature.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Yumen Pass. However, the site offers special tours during festivals or holidays, where visitors can experience traditional performances or cultural events.

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

Yumen Pass can be moderately crowded during public holidays, especially in summer and spring. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays during the off-season (November to March), when the weather is cooler.

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

Basic facilities like toilets and water are available at the site. There are no large restaurants or shops within the immediate vicinity, but local vendors may offer snacks and souvenirs.

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

The site is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain around the walls and desert areas may be challenging. Visitors with disabilities may find it difficult to navigate the uneven ground, though the main areas around the museum are more accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still widely accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used. Credit cards may be less accepted, particularly in smaller shops or vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants or cafes within Yumen Pass itself. However, there are small local eateries in the nearby town of Jiuquan, where you can try regional Gansu dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available at local restaurants in Jiuquan, though vegan options may be limited. Halal food may be harder to find, but larger towns like Jiuquan may offer some options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several mid-range hotels in Jiuquan, such as the Jiuquan Hotel and Yumen Hotel, which provide convenient access to Yumen Pass.
• For more budget-friendly options, guesthouses and small inns are available in the nearby areas.

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

• The Jiayuguan Fort, another key historical site along the Great Wall, is about 2 hours' drive from Yumen Pass and is often visited on the same trip.
• The Mogao Grottoes near Dunhuang are also a popular addition to a Silk Road itinerary, located about 4-5 hours away by car.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near Yumen Pass, where you can purchase local crafts, postcards, and memorabilia related to the Silk Road.

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

From Yumen Pass, you can take a bus or taxi back to Jiuquan. For further travel, buses and trains connect Jiuquan to other cities like Jiayuguan and Lanzhou, from where you can continue your journey to other Silk Road attractions.