Visit the ancient Jianmen Pass, explore its iconic gates and historical sites, and hike along the scenic trails for beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The area is perfect for photography, nature walks, and learning about local history.

The Jianmen Pass Scenic Area is located within the stream gorge between Taojinping and Wuxing Bridge in the West Zhejiang Gorge of Lin'an, Zhejiang Province. The hiking trail, over 2,000 meters long, offers a unique experience of trekking through the canyon. From Jianmen Pass, follow the stone steps down to the valley floor, then walk upstream, past Xishui Beach, to Shixiang Bay, where the tour concludes.
This scenic area boasts rolling peaks, turbulent waters, fresh air, and delightful scenery, creating a sense of exploring the valley floor amidst picturesque scenery. Key attractions include the Gold-Taking Pavilion, the Hidden Army Cave, the Huagai Pine, the Jianmen Bridge, Jianmen Lake, the Five Peaks of Jianmen, the Shemen Bay Development Base, the Single-Wood Bridge, the Hundred-Step Golden Sands, the Tightrope Walk, the Yacht Wharf, the Big Bitan Lake, the Small Bitan Lake, the Meilu Garden, the Fishpond, the Tiger Photo Shooting Spot, the Changtan Weir, the Qingsongping Weir, and the Water in Hand.
Spring and autumn are the best time to travel, while rafting is possible in summer.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
West Zhejiang Grand Canyon (Zhelin Waterfall + Jianmen Pass + Laodui Creek) ticket price: 60 yuan/person
Peak season: 07:00-17:30
Off-season: 08:00-16:00
Jianmen Pass is a historically significant pass in ancient Chinese history, famous for its role during the Three Kingdoms period. It served as an important military stronghold and strategic point. The pass and its surrounding areas are now a popular tourist destination, offering both historical and natural attractions.
Jianmen Pass is located in the western part of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. You can reach it by taxi from the city center, or take a public bus to the nearest stop and walk to the entrance.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is cool and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
The entrance fee is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or online via travel platforms. It is recommended to check for online discounts or package deals.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, though it is advisable during peak seasons or holidays. Booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient.
To fully explore Jianmen Pass, including hiking, visiting the temples, and taking in the views, you will need about 2-3 hours. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, 4 hours would allow more time for photography and rest.
Key highlights include the ancient Jianmen Pass gates, the hiking trails leading to scenic viewpoints, and the surrounding temples and historical monuments. The panoramic view from the top is a must-see.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in both Chinese and English can be rented at the entrance for a more self-guided experience.
The best photography spots include the view from the top of the Jianmen Pass, the gates themselves, and the various temples scattered throughout the scenic area. The surrounding mountain landscapes provide an excellent backdrop for photos.
Start with a visit to the ancient gates and temples, then hike the main trail for scenic views. Conclude your visit by walking along the cliffside paths for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Jianmen Pass. However, special cultural and historical tours may be available during festivals or holidays.
The attraction can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and drinks. However, more substantial dining options are found in the nearby city of Hangzhou.
The site is generally accessible to children and elderly visitors, though some of the hiking trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Wheelchair access is limited in certain areas.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit cards may also be accepted at larger shops. Cash is not typically needed but may be useful in more remote areas.
There are several local restaurants near the entrance, offering Zhejiang cuisine. For a wider range of options, head to Hangzhou city, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It’s advisable to check menus in advance or ask the restaurant staff for alternatives.
There are some budget accommodations near the entrance of Jianmen Pass. For more luxury options, consider staying in Hangzhou city, where there are a variety of hotels ranging from budget to five-star.
Nearby attractions include West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the Xixi Wetlands. These can be easily combined in a day trip, as they are all within a short drive of Jianmen Pass.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance, selling items such as local crafts, tea, and traditional Chinese goods. Popular souvenirs include handcrafted items and local Zhejiang tea.
After visiting, you can continue your trip by taxi or public transport. Hangzhou’s public transportation network is well-developed and will allow easy access to other tourist sites.