Traveling Through Millennia, Exploring the "First Majestic Pass Under Heaven" Jiayuguan

Jiayuguan, known as the "First Majestic Pass Under Heaven," stands as a historical monument along the Hexi Corridor and was a vital node on the ancient Silk Road, carrying profound cultural significance. Today, I’ll share a Jiayuguan travel guide with you! 📖

🌟 Must-Visit Attractions

- **Jiayuguan Pass**: The western starting point of the Ming Great Wall, renowned as the "First Majestic Pass Under Heaven." Climb the watchtowers to admire the distant Qilian Mountains and the vast Gobi Desert, immersing yourself in history. The well-preserved structures inside the pass also offer insights into ancient military defense systems. Ticket price: 110 RMB/person (peak season), 90 RMB/person (off-season) 🎫
- **Overhanging Great Wall**: Named for its steep, cliff-like walls resembling a dragon coiled along the Black Mountain ridge. Climbing it offers a unique experience, and the summit provides breathtaking views of the Gobi landscape. The ticket is included in the Jiayuguan Pass combo ticket. 🗺️
- **First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall**: The westernmost beacon tower of the Ming Great Wall, perched on the cliffs of the Taolai River Gorge. Nearby, a glass observation deck adds a thrilling element while showcasing the gorge’s stunning scenery. The ticket is also part of the combo ticket. 🧐

🚗 Transportation Guide

- **External Transport**: Fly directly to Jiayuguan Airport ✈️ or take a train to Jiayuguan Railway Station or Jiayuguan South Station.
- **Local Transport**: Taxis are convenient in the city. For attractions, consider hiring a private car for flexibility, photo stops, and local driver recommendations for hidden gems and food. Public buses like Route 4 also go directly to the pass.

🍱 Food Recommendations

- **Jiayuguan Barbecue**: A must-try! Local lamb is tender and flavorful, grilled to perfection—crispy outside, juicy inside—best paired with chilled apricot tea. Try "Glasses Barbecue," a popular spot! 🔥
- **Lamb Noodle Soup**: Hearty broth with silky noodles and tender lamb, warming you up instantly. "Bao Fu Ji" serves an authentic version—pair it with braised lamb trotters for extra deliciousness.
- **Huguo (Spiced Stew)**: A local specialty with chicken broth, crispy twists, and starch cubes, rich in pepper flavor. Don’t miss "Gun Ji Huguo Old Shop," which also offers other regional snacks.

📅 Itinerary Suggestions

- **One-Day Trip**: Visit Jiayuguan Pass in the morning to explore its history and architecture; enjoy barbecue for lunch; hike the Overhanging Great Wall in the afternoon; end the day watching the sunset at the First Beacon Tower. 🌄
- **Two-Day Trip**: Day 1—Tour the pass and Overhanging Great Wall, then savor local delicacies at Datang Food Street at night. Day 2—Visit the First Beacon Tower, followed by Donghu Ecological Park for lakeside views and a city panorama from the Meteorological Tower.

Pro Tip: May to October is the best time to visit. Don’t forget sun protection and warm layers! 🧢 Pack your bags and embark on this timeless journey to Jiayuguan!