🌄 Half-Day Jiayuguan Scenic Area Tour

Jiayuguan, known as the “First and Greatest Pass under Heaven” (天下第一雄关), is the western starting point of the Ming Great Wall. A half-day itinerary is enough to see its highlights while appreciating its Silk Road history.

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🚩 Must-See Attractions
1. Jiayuguan Fortress (嘉峪关关城)
• The western end of the Ming Great Wall.
• Climb the fortress walls for panoramic views of the Gobi Desert and feel the might of ancient border defenses.
2. Overhanging Great Wall (悬臂长城)
• The most complete surviving section of the Jiayuguan Great Wall.
• The wall runs along the ridge of the mountain, creating dramatic scenery. From the top, you can see the boundary where the desert meets the green oasis.
3. First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall (长城第一墩)
• The westernmost starting point of the Great Wall.
• From the viewing platform, admire the view of the Heihe River valley and Qilian Mountains.
• Best visited by taking the sightseeing shuttle to save time and energy.

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🕘 Suggested Half-Day Itinerary
• Start at Jiayuguan Fortress → explore the gates, climb the walls, and visit the exhibition halls.
• Head to the Overhanging Great Wall → enjoy a short but steep climb and sweeping desert views.
• End at the First Beacon Tower → take the shuttle, soak in the scenery of the vast frontier, and reflect on the Great Wall’s western edge.

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✅ Tips:
• Wear comfortable shoes – climbing is required.
• Sunscreen, hat, and water are essential (desert climate).
• If time is short, do the route in reverse (First Beacon → Overhanging Great Wall → Fortress).
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