Jinsuo Pass

Introducing Jinsuoguan

Located in the transition zone between the northern Shaanxi Plateau and the Guanzhong Plain, Jinsuoguan Pass has long been a strategic chokepoint and fortress on the Xianyu Road. Surrounded by three majestic mountains: Nühui Mountain to the north, Malan Mountain to the east, and Zhongjia Mountain to the west, the Liulin and Qishui Rivers converge at the foot of Nühui Mountain before flowing south. Commonly known as the "Three Passes," it was a crucial battleground for ancient military strategists, earning the reputation of being "a formidable natural barrier where even hawks and hawks struggle to fly."

Despite the Kuomintang's tight blockade of the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region, it couldn't stop the march of history! Countless revolutionary youths braved the dangers of their lives and journeyed north from here to join the Party, dedicating their youth to the cause of the Chinese nation's liberation. During the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, Comrade Zhou Enlai made numerous trips through Jinsuoguan Pass between Xi'an and Yan'an to negotiate with the Kuomintang. In 1940, upon seeing Lin Boqu, Chairman of the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region Government, returning to Yan'an from Xi'an, Comrade Dong Biwu composed two regulated verses, "Sceneries on the Xianyu Road," inspired by his own journey through Jinsuoguan Pass.

Jinsuoguan Town is located in the northwest of Yintai District, Tongchuan City, on the boundary between the northern Shaanxi Plateau and the Guanzhong Plain. It belongs to the Qiaoshan Mountains, the southern remnant of the Ziwuling Mountain Range. It borders Yunmeng Township of Yijun County to the east, Yintai Township to the south, Yaozhou District and Wangyi District to the west, and Xunyi and Yuhua Districts to the north. It is 12.5 kilometers from the district government seat. The geological structure lies on the eastern flank of the Qilian, Lüliang, and Helan Mountains' zigzag tectonic front. It belongs to the Neocathaysia First-Class Depression Zone and the southern edge of the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Basin. The area is composed of Permian and Triassic rocks, with a deep layer of aeolian loess overlying a paleotopography of Mesozoic bedrock and Cenozoic red soil.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Jinsuoguan Pass, commonly known as the "Three Passes," was a crucial battleground for ancient military strategists, renowned for its "immense natural barrier, impenetrable to hawks and hawks." Standing majestically in the ancient city of Tongguan County (the former name of Tongchuan), it is 12.5 kilometers north of the current seat of the People's Government of Yintai District, Tongchuan City, and serves as the seat of the People's Government of Jinsuoguan Town, Yintai District, Tongchuan City. The town enjoys convenient transportation, sitting at the intersection of National Highway 210 (Xi'an-Baotou section), the Tongchuan-Huangling Class-A Highway, and Provincial Highway 305, two vertical and one horizontal arterial routes. It is 126 kilometers south of Xi'an, 75 kilometers north of the Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor, and 25 kilometers northwest of the Tang Yuhua Palace. It serves as a strategic transportation hub connecting to Yan'an and Yulin to the north, Gansu and Ningxia to the west, and Guanzhong to the south, making it a popular destination for travel.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

45 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jinsuo Pass

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

Jinsuo Pass is a historically significant military pass located in Shaanxi Province. It served as a strategic point during the Tang Dynasty, providing control over the vital routes between central China and the northwest. Its role in historical defense makes it a key part of Chinese military history.

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

Jinsuo Pass is located in Tongchuan, Shaanxi. You can reach it by taxi or private car from Tongchuan city center, which is around 40 minutes away. Public transport options may be limited, so using a taxi or ride-sharing service is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Jinsuo Pass is open year-round, with visiting hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its best.

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

The entrance fee to Jinsuo Pass is typically around ¥40. Tickets can be purchased on-site, though some tour operators may offer online booking for guided tours.

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

Tickets do not need to be booked in advance for general visits. However, if you plan to join a guided tour, it's recommended to book tickets at least 1-2 days in advance to secure your spot.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Jinsuo Pass, including the fortifications, the military museum, and the surrounding area, you will need around 2 to 3 hours.

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

• The ancient defensive walls and gates.
• The military museum that showcases artifacts from the Tang Dynasty.
• Scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of the mountains and the surrounding valleys.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides may be available for self-guided tours, but it’s best to confirm availability upon arrival.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Photographs of the ancient fortifications and walls make for great historical shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering through the main gate and exploring the military history museum. From there, walk along the ancient walls and visit the scenic viewpoints. Finish with a stop at the nearby temple for a more cultural experience.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Jinsuo Pass. It is best visited during the day for optimal visibility of the fortifications and surrounding scenery.

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

Jinsuo Pass can be crowded on weekends and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or during the early morning hours.

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

There are basic facilities available, including public toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. It’s advisable to bring your own water and supplies, especially if you plan to hike the area.

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

Jinsuo Pass is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with paved paths leading to the main areas. However, some of the historical sections with steep stairs may be difficult to access for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still widely accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly common at most points of sale. It’s a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are local restaurants serving Shaanxi cuisine, such as Liangpi noodles and Roujiamo (Shaanxi-style burgers).
• Cafes are limited in the area, but there are small snack shops and tea houses nearby.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, but they are more limited. Halal food is less common in the area, but you may find some regional restaurants catering to Muslim visitors in nearby towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are basic hotels and guesthouses in Tongchuan city, about 40 minutes from Jinsuo Pass.
• For a more comfortable stay, consider hotels in Xi'an, which is about a 2-hour drive away.

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

• The famous Famen Temple, which houses a relic of the Buddha, is a popular nearby attraction.
• Xi'an, with its Terracotta Army, is also an easily accessible day trip from Jinsuo Pass.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Shaanxi handicrafts, such as clay figurines, Terracotta Army replicas, and local teas.

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

• Taxi or private car are the most convenient options for continuing your journey to nearby attractions.
• If you are heading to Xi'an, you can take a bus or train from Tongchuan or rent a car for a more direct route.