Jianmen Shu Road

Introducing Jianmen Shu Road

Sichuan is known for its "Four Wonders"—the wonders of Jiuzhaigou, the beauty of Emei Mountain, the seclusion of Qingcheng Mountain, and the dangers of Jianmen Mountain. The Jianmen Shu Road is one of these wonders. The Jianmen Shu Road primarily refers to the scenic route from Guangyuan through Jianmen Pass and Jiange to Mianyang. Starting in Ningqiang, Shaanxi Province in the north and ending in Chengdu in the south, it stretches 450 kilometers. Numerous historical sites are located along the Jianmen Shu Road. The ancient route is majestic and breathtaking, and the glass plank walkway at the top is truly thrilling and worth experiencing.

The Jianmen Shu Road is steeped in the culture of the Three Kingdoms, with Pang Tong, Jiang Wan, Jiang Wei, Deng Ai, Ma Chao, Bao Sanniang and others leaving behind wonderful stories. There are numerous historical sites and beautiful scenery along the Jianmen Shu Road, including the Fule Mountain, which is ablaze with flowers all year round, the Cuiyun Corridor with its 300-mile-long ancient cypresses, and the Mingyue Gorge with its "flying beams spanning the steep mountains."

The ancient Shu Road, famous for its poem "The Road to Shu is Difficult, Harder Than Climbing to Heaven" by the poet Li Bai 1,000 years ago, boasts a centuries-long landscape of peaks and ridges, cliffs reaching up to the clouds, and a magnificent and diverse landscape, forming a major barrier to transportation between Sichuan and Shaanxi. Today, the region continues to attract tourists with its high mountains, deep valleys, and numerous scenic spots and historical sites.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Jianmen Shu Road Scenic Area is vast and rich in natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, forests, and springs. Numerous historical sites and attractions are scattered along the Shu Road, including the ancient plank road, the remains of the Three Kingdoms battlefield, the Empress Wu Zetian Temple and Huangze Temple, the Tang and Song Dynasty stone carvings of the Thousand Buddha Rock, Jianmen Pass, the Cuiyun Corridor, the Qiqushan Grand Temple, and Li Bai's hometown. Zitong, Jianmen Pass, and Cuiyun Corridor are its main attractions.

Recommended play time: 4-6 hours

Tickets

Pass 100 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jianmen Shu Road

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

Jianmen Shu Road, often referred to as the "Ancient Shu Road", was once a critical route connecting Sichuan to the rest of China. It holds great historical significance as a key passageway in the ancient Silk Road, facilitating the exchange of goods and cultures. The road is renowned for its role in Chinese history and culture, especially in terms of trade and military strategies.

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

Jianmen Shu Road is located in Jianmen Pass, Guangyuan, Sichuan Province. The site is about 60 km from Guangyuan city center and can be reached by taxi or local buses. There are also tours that provide transportation to the site. Walking is ideal once you are within the scenic area to fully experience the surroundings.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild, and the landscape is particularly beautiful. It is also less crowded during weekdays.

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

Admission to the Jianmen Shu Road area is typically around 80-100 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through various tourism websites for advance booking.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but for special events or weekends, it is advisable to purchase tickets a day or two in advance, especially during public holidays or peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend 2-3 hours walking along the road and exploring the nearby historical landmarks. If you wish to explore the surrounding mountain areas or villages, you may want to spend an entire day.

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

The must-see highlights include the ancient stone road, Jianmen Pass, ancient bridges, and the scenic views from the mountain paths. The traditional architecture and historical sites along the way are also key attractions.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not typically available, but many tour groups offer English-speaking guides on request for international visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the mountain paths, where you can capture the scenic beauty of the mountains and ancient roadways. The Jianmen Pass itself provides stunning landscape views, and there are various ancient bridges along the way that make for great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance of Jianmen Shu Road, exploring the ancient stone paths. Continue along the mountain trail leading to the Jianmen Pass. After visiting the pass, head toward the ancient bridges for a complete experience. If you have time, explore the nearby villages to see local life.

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

Night visits are generally not available. However, the road can be beautiful in the early morning when the fog is low and the atmosphere is tranquil. There are occasional special cultural performances or festivals, especially during major Chinese holidays.

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

The road can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in the summer. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays or in the morning on non-holiday weekdays.

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

The area has public toilets and rest areas along the way. There are small shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and bottled water. However, facilities may be limited, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks and water if you're planning to walk long distances.

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

The road is accessible for most visitors, but some parts may be steep and challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes, and those with mobility issues should consider checking with local guides about the most accessible routes.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at many local shops, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted in all locations, so it's good to have some cash on hand.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants near the entrance to the Jianmen Shu Road. These offer traditional Sichuan dishes such as hotpot, dumplings, and noodles. It’s a great place to try spicy Sichuan cuisine after exploring the road.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are some vegetarian options available at local restaurants, but vegan or halal food options are limited. It’s a good idea to check in advance or carry snacks if you have specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations near Jianmen Shu Road include local guesthouses and small hotels. Guangyuan city offers more hotel options, with larger hotels like Guangyuan International Hotel located about 1-2 hours away by car.

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

Nearby attractions include the Fulong Temple, Huanglong Cave, and Mount Longmen, all of which can be easily visited in a day trip from Jianmen Shu Road.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, including Sichuan tea, traditional clothing, and wood carvings. These make for great gifts or mementos from your visit.

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

After visiting Jianmen Shu Road, taxis or private vehicles are the best options to continue your trip. Alternatively, you can take public buses back to Guangyuan city to explore other attractions or catch a train to your next destination.