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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.