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Yumen Pass

Introducing Yumen Pass
Yumen Pass is a pivotal outpost situated in the Gobi Desert of northwest China. Yumen Pass was constructed during the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD). Yumen Pass spans 633 square meters and features gates on both its western and northern sides. Today, visitors can explore the site, delving into its historical importance and reflecting on its role in facilitating trade and cultural exchanges among ancient civilizations.

Yumen Pass Fast Facts
• AKA: Jade Gate Pass
• Chinese Name: Yumenguan 玉门关
• Best Time to Visit: May to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 - 2 Hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Hiking, Archaeology
• Opening Hours: 07:00-19:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY40 (includes Yumen Pass, Hecang City Ruins Site and Han Dynasty Great Wall)
• Address: 92 km (57 miles) Northwest of Dunhuang, Jiuquan, Gansu Province

History of Yumen Pass

In the early Han Dynasty, frequent Hun (nomadic tribes) invasions led weak rulers to consider marrying off imperial daughters to Hun leaders for peace. However, Emperor Wu abandoned this policy, launching fierce counterattacks to repel the Hun troops. To fortify the western frontier, Emperor Wu established Yumen Pass and Yangguan Pass along the Hexi Corridor, crucially guarding the homeland. Yumen Pass, named for its role in jade transport along the Silk Road, served as a vital post station for business, military, and diplomatic exchanges, witnessing flourishing trade and cultural interactions between east and west.

What to expect at Yumen Pass

At Yumen Pass, visitors encounter the awe-inspiring sight of historic gates adorning the western and northern walls, serving as reminders of the bustling activity that once characterized this crucial gateway between east and west. Silk Road trade and cultural exchange flourished here for centuries. While wandering through the pass, one can almost feel the palpable energy of the merchants, military generals, and diplomats who shaped history with their journeys and interactions. The captivating ambiance of Yumen Pass invites immersion, with every stone whispering tales of ancient civilizations that thrived in its shadow, beckoning exploration into the rich tapestry of the past.

Hecang City Ruins

Hecang City served as a munitions depot to store supplies for the western border lines from the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD) through to the Wei and Jin (220-420) dynasties. Positioned 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) east of Yumen Pass, Hecang City was constructed on a natural elevation 2 meters (6.5 ft) above the riverbed on the south bank of the Shule River. The rectangular layout of the south-facing rammed-earth structure includes a south gate. Inside the city, three warehouses are divided by partition walls, featuring two rows of ventilation windows on both top and bottom levels. Wing walls are situated on the east, west, and north sides, with each corner adorned with four piers. Positioned 100 meters (0.06 miles) south of the city is the “Hecang Beacon Tower,” serving as a prominent landmark.

Han Dynasty Great Wall & Beacon Towers

Within Dunhuang city, the sections of the Han Dynasty Great Wall span approximately 136 kilometers (84 miles) in total, with the most well-preserved segments situated near Yumen Pass. These best-preserved sections are approximately 400 meters (0.24 mile) long, 3.25 meters (10.6 ft) high, and 3 meters (9.8 ft) wide at the base, tapering to 1 meter (3.28 ft) at the top. Positioned roughly 2 kilometers (1.24 mile) north of Yumen Pass, the Great Wall beacon towers form a continuous line stretching from east to west, with nearly 80 towers dotting the landscape along its course. From their elevated vantage points, these towers offer commanding views of the surrounding areas, enabling vigilant soldiers to surveil the landscape for any signs of approaching threats.

How to get to Yumen Pass
• The Yumen Pass is located 92 km (57 miles) northwest of Dunhuang.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free private transfer to the Yumen Pass.

Additional travel advice on Yumen Pass
• Please prepare a scarf to cover your face in case there are sandstorms.
• Please wear sunscreen creams.

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  1. Tour Highlights
    • Admire the scenery along the Gobi Desert, changing from bustling city to desolate Gobi
    • Get a close-up look at Yumen Pass, named for the many jade caravans passing through
    • Visit Great Wall of the Han Dynasty, built with a mixture of sand, dirt, rose willow, reed and apocynum
    • Explore Yadan National Geological Park, be intrigued by the phenomena of rocks in shapes like lion, peacock & etc
    • Experienced English speaking tour guide.
    • Overland round-trip transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments.

    About This Tour
    • Departure: Daily departing from Dunhuang
    • Tour Duration: Approximately 10 hours.
    • Guide Languages: Chinese & English.
    • Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
    • Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Dunhuang
    • Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.

    Tour Itinerary at a Glance
    • Pick up from your accommodation in Dunhuang
    • Drive to Yumen Pass (2 hours)
    • Visit Yumen Pass & Han Dynasty Great Wall of China
    • Lunch on your own
    • Drive to Yadan National Geological Park (1 hour)
    • Visit Yadan National Geological Park
    • Transfer back to your accommodation in Dunhuang (3 hours)

    Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
    • If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.

    Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)

    1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 +
    $488 $278 $198 $178 $168 $138 $128 $118 $110 $108


    Price Remark
    • Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).

    Price Inclusions
    • Professional English language speaking private tour guide
    • Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
    • All admission tickets to sightseeing places
    • All government taxes

    Price Exclusions
    • Hotel accommodation.
    • Your personal expenses.
    • Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
    • Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
    • Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.

    Additional Info
    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
    • The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
    • The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
    • IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.

    Cancellation Policy
    • You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
    • Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
    • Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

    Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
    • Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
    • GoGrandChina private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
    • GoGrandChina tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
    • GoGrandChina offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
    • No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
    • No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.

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