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The Great Wall, a symbol of the Chinese national spirit, stretches from Shanhaiguan in the east to Jiayuguan in the west. Jiayuguan is located in the middle section of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, on the western edge of the Jiuquan Basin. Bounded by the Qilian Mountains to the south and the Mazong Mountains to the north, it boasts a strategically located terrain and magnificent scenery. The city's northern and southern boundaries are defined by the Wenshu and Yushugou Mountains, separated by a 15-kilometer-long gorge known as the "First Pass in Hexi," a crucial strategic location.
The city wall is divided into an inner city and an outer city, with three main towers. Other structures on the wall include arrow towers, watchtowers, corner towers, attics, and gatehouses. Inside the city wall are the Guerrilla General's Mansion, the Well Pavilion, and the Wenchang Pavilion. Outside the east gate are the Guandi Temple, memorial archways, and theaters, each with its own unique history and unique charm, each worth a visit. Climbing the city wall, you can gaze out over the vast expanse of the Qilian Mountains in the distance, the Gobi grasslands beneath your feet, and you'll feel a sense of historical poignancy.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
120 yuan/person
08:30--19:00
Jiayuguan, located in Gansu, is historically significant as the western terminus of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. It served as a strategic military garrison and trade gateway along the Silk Road, protecting China from western invasions and facilitating commerce and cultural exchange.
Jiayuguan is in western Gansu Province. It can be reached via Jiayuguan Airport, the Lanzhou-Xinjiang Railway, or long-distance buses. Within the city, taxis and local buses provide access to the fort and nearby attractions, while walking is feasible within the fort complex.
Advance booking is recommended during peak summer season and national holidays, usually 1–3 days prior. Off-season visits often do not require advance booking.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin; some agencies offer English tours. Audio guides in Mandarin are commonly available at the fort.
Enter through the main gate of Jiayuguan Fort, explore the walls, visit the on-site museum, then proceed to the Overhanging Great Wall and First Beacon Tower. Conclude with a visit to Wei-Jin Tombs and optional desert excursion.
Night visits are generally not available. Some organized tours may include sunset photography sessions or cultural performances at the fort.
Peak crowds occur during summer holidays and national holidays. Visiting on weekdays and early mornings reduces crowd density.
City areas of the fort are accessible, but climbing walls and Overhanging Great Wall sections may be challenging for elderly or mobility-impaired visitors. Children can explore with supervision.
Cards and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat) are widely accepted at ticket offices, restaurants, and shops, but carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors.
Vegetarian and Halal options are available in city restaurants, though choices may be limited near remote attractions.
