Yanmen Pass, hailed as the “First Pass of China,” stands as a magnificent military defense project among ancient fortifications in China. It is a crucial gateway on the Great Wall, renowned for its perilous terrain. The Yanmen Pass scenic area boasts a profound historical background, encapsulating cultural significance. King Wu Ling of Zhao once embarked on military reforms here, while General Li Mu stationed his troops at Yanmen to guard against the Xiongnu. Emperor Qin Shi Huang dispatched General Meng Tian to the north to combat the Xiongnu and constructed the Great Wall, while Emperor Han Wudi repeatedly launched counterattacks against the Xiongnu and renovated Yanmen Pass.
Moreover, Wang Zhaojun, a renowned beauty in ancient China, departed from Yanmen Pass to wed the leader of the Hu nation, bringing peace and stability to the region. During the Tang Dynasty, with the rise of the Turkic tribes in the north, Tang troops garrisoned at Yanmen Mountain and established a fortified pass at the strategic point of Tieguo Gate. Soldiers were stationed there to defend the area. In the Northern Song Dynasty, Yanmen Pass became a fiercely contested battlefield between the Song and Liao dynasties. The patriotic general Yang Ye made significant contributions and rendered meritorious service to his country in this region.
The scenic area boasts attractions such as the Guancheng Fortress, Yanmenzhai Fortress, Ancient Guan Road, Pass, and Changsheng Fort. The Ancient Guan Road, a crucial thoroughfare leading to Yanmen Pass in ancient times, spans over 30 kilometers in length and remains well-preserved today. The Pass, also known as the Northern Gateway of Yanmen, is one of the eighteen passes of Yanmen.
Thingsr to Do
Visiting the Relics of the Guancheng Fortress: The Yanmen Pass Guancheng Fortress is one of the main attractions in the scenic area. Here, you can admire the ancient city walls and towers, feeling the grandeur and magnificence of the ancient military defense project. Meanwhile, some historical relics are also displayed inside the fortress, providing insights into the rich history of Yanmen Pass.
Trekking on the Ancient Guan Road: The Ancient Guan Road was a crucial thoroughfare leading to Yanmen Pass in ancient times. You can choose to hike along it, experiencing the hardships and challenges faced by ancient merchants and travelers. Along the way, you can also admire the beautiful natural scenery and unique geographical landscapes.
Viewing the Night Scenery of Yanmen Pass: Yanmen Pass at night offers a unique charm. You can ascend the fortress or nearby observation decks to admire the beautiful night scenery of Yanmen Pass illuminated by lights, feeling the tranquility and mystique of the ancient pass.
Experiencing Local Folk Activities: The Yanmen Pass area is rich in folk culture. You can participate in local temple fairs, folk festivals, and other events, where you can enjoy various traditional folk art performances, taste authentic Shanxi cuisine, and deeply understand the local folk customs.
Taking Pictures as Memories: Yanmen Pass is an ideal place for photography. You can bring a camera or a smartphone to capture beautiful scenery or portrait photos, leaving behind unforgettable memories.
Ticket information
The full fare is 90 yuan
Half price: 45 yuan
Travel tips
Transportation guide: You can take the train or coach to Daixian County, and then transfer to the bus or taxi to Yanmenguan. Road trip, you can start from Taiyuan or Datong, along the highway to Daixian county, and then into the Yanmenguan scenic area.
Playtime: It is recommended to arrange one day to visit Yanmenguan. In this way, you can fully appreciate the various scenic spots in the scenic area and deeply understand their historical and cultural connotation.
Dress advice: Because Yanmenguan is located in the mountains and the climate is changeable, it is recommended to wear comfortable and warm clothes and bring rain gear just in case.
Note: During the tour, please abide by the regulations of the scenic area and do not climb or destroy ancient buildings and cultural relics. At the same time, pay attention to maintaining environmental hygiene, and do not litter.
Nearby accommodation and dining: There are several hotels and homestays to choose from around Daixian County, which can be selected according to your needs and budget. In terms of food and beverage, you can try local specialties, such as Daixian sesame flakes, Daixian fish, and so on.
Shopping recommendation: After the tour, you can buy some souvenirs in the shops in the scenic area, such as postcards, key rings, etc., as a souvenir.
