Jiayuguan Pass
In Gansun, there are many famous passes, like Yumenguan Pass, Yangguan
Pass and Jiayuuan Pass. All of them had ever played very important roles
in the long history of China. Among them the most famous one is Jiayuguan
Pass.
The Jiayu Pass is situated in the southwest of Jiayuguan City, at the foot of the Jiayu Mountain. Built in 1372 during the Ming Dynasty, it stands as the western end of the Great Wall. The pass is marked by a magnificent castle and 3-story gates. With a wall of 733 meters in circumference and 11.7 meters in height, the pass occupies more than 33,500 square meters. Its eastern and western gate towers both rises 17 meters, symmetrical in structure, and majestic in appearance. The watchtowers at its four corners add to its attraction.
On the way to the Pass are ancient tombs where visitors can have a look at life 1600 years ago.