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
CNY 31; tickets are purchased on site.
Hours
09:00-17:00.
Transport
No direct metro. Self-driving, a private car, or a pre-arranged return ride works best from Jiayuguan.
Duration
About 1.5 hours
How to Visit
1
Arrange return transport in advance
The tombs are outside the city, so self-driving, a private car, or a pre-arranged return ride works better than relying on a last-minute taxi.
Tip:Transport is the main practical constraint, especially for the return journey.
2
Start with the exhibition area
Start with the exhibition area, then enter the open tomb chambers as directed on site. Allow around 1.5 hours in total.
Tip:Only a limited number of chambers are open, so follow staff directions and stay behind protective barriers.
3
Bring a light layer underground
Bring a light layer before going underground. The tomb chambers are cool, even in summer.
Tip:The chambers are dim and compact; wear shoes with good grip and avoid carrying bulky bags.
4
Focus on the murals and architecture
Follow the strict no-photography and no-video rule inside the tombs, and focus on the murals and architecture instead.
Tip:This is best treated as a quiet historical visit, not a quick photo stop.
Highlights
- A large Wei and Jin tomb complex whose mural bricks record farming, animal husbandry, banquets, and hunting in the Hexi Corridor.
- A one-brick, one-painting method that turns the chamber walls into a sequence of everyday scenes.
- Tomb chambers arranged like residential spaces, with front, middle, and rear rooms reflecting period burial beliefs.
- Realistic daily subjects that reward visitors willing to slow down and look closely.
Insider Tips
✦Only a limited number of chambers are open, so follow staff directions and stay behind protective barriers.
✦This is best treated as a quiet historical visit, not a quick photo stop.
✦The chambers are dim and compact; wear shoes with good grip and avoid carrying bulky bags.
✦If your schedule is tight or private transport is inconvenient, weigh the transport time carefully before adding it.
More Jiayuguan Attractions
02Historic Walk
Overhanging Great Wall
悬壁长城
Admission
Included with CNY 110 three-site pass; sightseeing bus extra
Typical Visit
1-3 hours
03Historic 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
04Historic 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
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