
Yangping Pass, formerly known as Yang'an Pass, is located 57 kilometers northwest of Ningqiang County, Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province. Due to its strategic location, with access to Sichuan to the south, Lueyang to the north, Longnan to the west, and Hanzhong to the east, Yangping Pass was a key military stronghold during the Three Kingdoms period. Within Yangping Pass are Sanqing Cave, the remains of Zhengqi Hall, where the seventh-generation descendant of Wen Tianxiang settled in Yangping, Jigong Mountain, and the Jialing River, among other scenic spots.
The climate is a northern subtropical warm mountain climate with an average annual temperature of 13°C, an average annual precipitation of 1,184 mm, and a frost-free period of 240 days. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Sanqing Cave, the ruins of "Zhengqitang" where the seventh generation descendants of Wen Tianxiang settled in Yangping, Jigong Mountain, Jialing River and other attractions.
It is recommended to visit for about 1 to 2 days.
free.
Open all day.
Yangping Pass is historically significant as a military stronghold during the Tang Dynasty, guarding the route between central China and the western regions. It was strategically important in defending against invasions and is a symbol of China's ancient military prowess.
Yangping Pass is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the Hanzhong city center, approximately 40 km away. Public transport options may be limited, but local buses may be available during peak tourist seasons.
The pass is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the surrounding landscapes are most scenic. Avoid visiting during the summer peak season to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is around 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through local tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak travel periods such as holidays or weekends. Booking a day or two in advance should suffice.
You can fully explore Yangping Pass in about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the scenic views and historical sites.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Chinese may also be available for self-guided tours, though English-language options may be limited.
The best viewpoints are located at the top of the pass, where visitors can capture the expansive views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The fortifications themselves also offer great photo opportunities.
Start your visit by exploring the fortifications and military history displays. Then, take a walk along the scenic trails leading to the observation points for the best views. Conclude with a visit to the small museum or informational panels about the pass's history.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Yangping Pass. It is primarily a daytime attraction focused on history and natural scenery.
The pass can get moderately crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are typically on weekdays and in the early morning, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
The pass offers basic facilities, including restrooms and small food stalls. There are no large restaurants or shops, but local snacks and drinks can be purchased at the entrance area.
The pass is somewhat accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved paths and easy access to the main areas. However, some steep sections may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It is recommended to check in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most commonly used methods for transactions at the pass.
Vegetarian food options are generally available, but halal food may be limited in the area. It is advisable to inquire at local restaurants in advance.
There are a few souvenir shops near the entrance of Yangping Pass offering local handicrafts, including traditional paper cuts, pottery, and small figurines related to the area's history.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or a local bus back to Hanzhong city for further travel. Taxis are readily available and are the most convenient option for onward travel.