01Historic Walk
Jiayuguan Pass Fortress
嘉峪关关城
All Ages
Admission
CNY 110 for the three-site pass; sightseeing bus extra
Typical Visit
2-3 hours
Quick Facts
Ticket
Included with CNY 110 three-site pass; sightseeing bus extra
Hours
Peak season (May 1-Oct 31): 08:00-20:00, ticket sales and entry end 19:30; low season (Nov 1-Apr 30): 08:30-18:00, ticket sales and entry end 17:30
Transport
No direct metro; use a private car, taxi, or scenic-area transport
Duration
1-3 hours
Best Time
May-Oct
Visitors
Visitors comfortable with steep steps and exposed terrain
How to Visit
1
Choose a time when your energy is still good
Visit while your energy is still good, or make this the final stop of a three-site day.
Tip:The focus here is the climb, not a level stroll.
2
See the full wall before climbing
Look at the wall rising along the Black Mountain ridge from the base, then begin the climb.
Tip:A low-angle view from below best shows how it follows the mountain.
3
Climb in sections
Climb at your own pace and rest in sections on the steep, exposed steps.
Tip:A steady ascent is better than rushing.
4
Pause at higher viewpoints
Stop at the beacon tower and higher points to look back towards the Gobi and city; clear weather may reveal the direction of the Qilian Mountains.
Tip:These views explain the strategic value of the ridge.
5
Leave time for the descent
In peak season, enter before 19:30 and leave enough time to descend.
Tip:Do not rush down steep steps after waiting for sunset.
Highlights
- The wall rises sharply along the Black Mountain ridge, making it the most direct expression of the northern wing of Jiayuguan's defence system.
- Looking up from the base clearly shows the relationship between the wall and the ridge.
- Higher viewpoints open onto the Gobi, mountains, and the direction of distant snow peaks.
- The beacon tower makes this more than a climbing route; it is also a surviving part of the border-defence system.
- Unlike the fortress's flat defensive layout, this section shows how terrain itself became part of the defence.
Insider Tips
✦The steps are steep throughout, so grippy trainers or hiking shoes matter more than photo outfits.
✦There is little shade. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sun protection, and enough drinking water.
✦Do not climb in sandals, high heels, or shoes with slippery soles.
✦If using taxis, arrange your return in advance; it may not be easy to call a car from the base.
✦Visitors with a fear of heights, knee discomfort, or young children can enjoy the full view from the lower and middle sections without forcing a summit climb.
More Jiayuguan Attractions
02Historic Walk
First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall
长城第一墩
Admission
Included with CNY 110 three-site pass; sightseeing bus extra
Typical Visit
1-1.5 hours
03Historic Walk
Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum
嘉峪关长城博物馆
Admission
Free entry with a valid ID; real-name reservation required.
Typical Visit
45-60 minutes
04City Guide
Xincheng Wei and Jin Mural Tombs
新城魏晋壁画墓
Admission
CNY 31; tickets are purchased on site.
Typical Visit
About 1.5 hours
05City Guide
Jiayuguan City Museum
嘉峪关城市博物馆
Admission
Free entry; bring identification to collect an admission ticket.
Typical Visit
1-1.5 hours
06City Guide
Taolai River Canyon
讨赖河峡谷
Admission
Included with First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall admission; no separate ticket
Typical Visit
1-1.5 hours with the First Beacon Tower