Overhanging Great Wall - Jiayuguan Pass, Western End of the Great Wall

The Overhanging Great Wall is an extension of Jiayuguan Pass to the north, built on a ridge of about 45 degrees, looking like two arms hanging on the mountain, which is known as the "Badaling Great Wall in the West".

Quick Facts About Overhanging Great Wall

• Name in Chinese: Xuán Bì Cháng Chéng 悬壁长城
• Opening Hours: 8:00-20:00 in Summer and Fall, 8:30-18:00 in Spring and Winter
• Ticket Price: CNY108 for an adult
• Location: Jiayuguan City, Gansu Province

Note:

• The Jiayuguan Pass ticket includes admission to the First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall and the Overhanging Great Wall.
• You must go to the ticket office in the scenic spot to purchase tickets for the First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall or the Overhanging Great Wall separately.

Where is the Overhanging Great Wall

The overhanging Great Wall is located in Jiayuguan City, Gansu Province, in the northwest of China, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center and roughly 10 kilometers from the Jiayuguan Pass.

What Can You Experience in Overhanging Great Wall

At Jiayuguan's Overhanging Great Wall, you can experience many delights, both culinary and scenic.

Scenery

• Beacon Towers: As you ascend to the summit of the tallest beacon tower, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Great Wall suspended majestically along the mountain ridge. The Gobi desert and sandy landscapes around the Overhanging Great Wall also offer a panoramic spectacle for you.
• Shiguanxia Ancient Silk Road Cultural Corridor Zone: it displays a sculpture group themed "Ancient Silk Road," depicting seven historical figures, including Zhang Qian and Marco Polo, along with their attendants, horses, camels, and a carriage, showcasing the rich historical and cultural heritage of this place.
• Military Defensive System Zone: showcases the Xuabi Great Wall, a water gate, and an exhibition of ancient weapons, presenting the ancient military defensive facilities.

Food

• Jiayuguan Roast Meat: crafted from fresh mutton, every step from slicing to roasting is meticulously handled by skilled chefs on the day itself. Indulge in a variety of dishes such as roast lamb chops, roast lamb legs, roast lamb tripe, roast lamb hooves, roast lamb skin, and even the unique roast lamb head.
• Paozhang Noodles: named for their resemblance to firecrackers, these noodles boast a flavor of beef broth, offering a delightful twist on traditional noodle dishes.
• Liangpi: made from a simple blend of flour and cold water, the noodles are sliced into thin strips after steaming. Seasonings make this cuisine more delicious, such as chili oil, vinegar, and garlic.

Western End of the Great Wall

Jiayuguan Pass is the westernmost section of the Great Wall in China, while the Hanging Wall is an extension of Jiayuguan Fort to the north. The two attractions are located 7 kilometers apart.

This section of the Great Wall was built along a 45-degree ridge, resembling something hanging in the sky. It is an important part of the ancient military defense system and also the last segment of the Great Wall as it enters Jiayuguan Pass.

Attractions Near the Overhanging Great Wall

Jiayuguan Pass: it is the first pass at the western end of the Ming Great Wall and also a transportation fortress of the ancient Silk Road. The Pass was first built during the Ming Dynasty and is the most spectacular fort along the Great Wall.

The First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall: it is the westernmost beacon tower of the Great Wall. This beacon tower was supervised by Li Han in 1539 AD. It stands on a high cliff by the Taolai River, nearly 60 meters above the ground. It resembles a square earth mound in shape but is built by compacting layers of loess. In the past, it was used for transmitting military information.

Best Time to Visit Overhanging Great Wall

The best time to visit the Overhanging Great Wall is in April, when the tourist off-season has just ended, making the scenic area less crowded and tickets easier to obtain. Additionally, January is the coldest month July is the hottest in the area around the overhanging Great Wall, and April marks the beginning of gradually warming temperatures.

How to Get to Overhanging Great Wall

From Jiyuguan City to Overhanging Great Wall

1. By bus: from the City Museum Station, take Bus 4 to the Yuquan Town Government Station, and then walk for 1 kilometer to reach Jiayuguan Fort. The total journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs CNY1. Upon arrival at the scenic area, take the shuttle bus within the scenic area to the Hanging Great Wall.

2. Take a Taxi: it takes 19 minutes and costs CNY24 to travel from Jiayuguan City to Jiayuguan Pass.

From Jiayuguan Railway Station to Overhanging Great Wall

1. By bus: from Jiayuguan Railway Station, take Bus 4 to Yuquan Town Government Station, and then walk 1 kilometer to reach Jiayuguan Fort. The total journey time is 1 hour and 30 minutes, and it costs CNY1. Upon arrival at the scenic area, take the shuttle bus within the scenic area to the Hanging Arm Great Wall.

2. Take a Taxi: from Jiayuguan Railway Station to Jiayuguan Fort takes 20 minutes and costs CNY24.

Private Transfer

Upon your arrival in Jiayuguan City, our driver will take you directly to your hotel or the scenic area as soon as you board the vehicle. There will be no stops in between, saving you a lot of time. Besides, we can ensure that everyone has their seat and there is enough space for your luggage. If you need it, don't hesitate to contact us.

Plan a Tour Around the Silk Road

Starting from Xi'an, the origin of the Silk Road, where the ancient city walls and Terracotta Warriors are whispering tales of a thousand-year-old history. As you proceed, you'll encounter the stunningly beautiful murals of the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, Gansu Province.

This is not merely a trip; it is a cultural exploration and a spiritual purification. You'll have the chance to interact with residents, gaining insights into their way of life and experiencing firsthand the prosperity and splendor of the ancient Silk Road.

• 10-day Adventure Tour in Xi'an, Lanzhou, Xiahe, Dunhuang, Turpan, and Urumqi
• 15-day Silk Road Glorious Tour

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