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Yumenguan Pass of Great Wall

  • Yumenguan Pass, an ancient strategic pass on the Silk Road, has a history spanning over two thousand years. Named for its role in the jade trade, it was a vital link between China and the outside world.

Profile

  • ID : 218
  • City : Dunhuang
  • English name : Yumenguan Pass
  • Chinese name : 玉门关(含汉长城、区间车)
  • Type :
  • Level : standard
  • Kids : possible
  • Elders: possible
  • Best season : Spring, Summer, Autumn
  • Visiting length : 1-2 hours
  • Distance to city center : 90 km

Introduction

    • Yumenguan Pass is located about 95 km northwest to Dunhuang City. It was built in Western Han Dynasty (206BC -24AD) as the crucial gateway from central China to the western regions. It was also an inevitable pass of the Silk Road. Silk and tea from Central China were exported abroad through this pass and fruits, the music and religion from western regions were transported to central China from this pass too.

Helper to visit Yumenguan Pass

  • Address in English : Dunhuang, Gansu Province
  • Address in Chinese : 甘肃省敦煌市
  • Tel : 86-937-6951018
  • Post code : 736200
  • Ticket time : 07:30-17:30
  • Open time : 07:30-18:00
  • Closing time :
  • Location : Yumenguan Pass is around 90 km to downtown Dunhuang

    Transportation

    • Take sightseeing bus from Dunhuang Bus Station to Yumenguan Pass.
  • Private car is the best method to visit Yumenguan Pass with local tour operator.

Admission

  • high season : 90 RMB/person.
  • shoulder season : 90 RMB/person.
  • low season : 90 RMB/person.

    History

  • Yumenguan Pass was first built by the Emperor Wudi during the Western Han Dynasty (206BC -24AD). To resist the harassment of Xiongnu, a nationality lived in the western border of China, the Western Han Dynasty built four countries and two passes in hexi corridor area. Yumenguan is one of the two passes, the other is Yangguan Pass. This two passes were the points to rest and replenish water supplies on the ancient silk road.
    Yumenguan Pass is also a post house for the important government officials and generals to change horses and get shelter. The jade from western regions was transported to central China from this pass, so got the name "Yumen(Jade Gate) Pass." Along with the Yangguan Pass, Yumenguan Pass functioned as a solid frontier pass and to ensure the smooth traffic on the Silk Road.
    Yumenguan Pass is a part of the Great Wall of Han Dynasty. With an area of 600 square kilometers, the pass had a rectangular shape, also called Small Square City. The pass was built of rammed yellow earth and has two gates. There is a walkway and a special road for horses leading to the wall. There are several flag towers near the pass. When the enemy attacked, the soldiers use them to convey messages.
    By the sixth century, the businessmen changed for the northern route via Hami, Yumenguan Pass was gradually abandoned.
    In 1944, Chinese archaeologists discovered relics of Yumenguan Pass.
    On June 22, 2014, the pass was successfully added to the World Heritage List.

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      Main Attractions

    • Xiao Fangpan Castle

      This large, remarkably well-preserved rectangular fortress (approx. 24m x 27m, walls ~10m high) built of rammed earth and straw is the structure most commonly identified with Yumen Pass. Walking around its imposing walls is the highlight.

      Han Dynasty Great Wall Remnants

      Sections of the ancient earthen wall stretch across the desert near the pass, often crumbling but clearly visible. Follow paths or viewpoints to see these snaking lines of history.

      Beacon Towers

      Several Han-era beacon towers stand sentinel on nearby hills. These were crucial for rapid communication (using smoke by day, fire by night) along the frontier.

      Museum in the Visitor Center

      A modern facility near the entrance provides historical context, displays artifacts found in the area (pottery, coins, documents), and explains the pass's significance and the Silk Road. Essential for understanding the site.

      Surrounding Landscape

      The vast, empty Gobi Desert surrounding the pass is integral to the experience. The sense of remoteness, silence (broken only by the wind), and the harsh environment the Han soldiers endured is palpable. The views are starkly beautiful.

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      Note

    • When visiting Yumenguan Pass, it is important to be prepared for the harsh desert conditions. The temperatures can be extremely high during the day and drop significantly at night. It is advisable to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate clothing. Additionally, as the site is located in a remote area, there are limited facilities available, so it is a good idea to plan your visit in advance.
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