The Key to the Western End of the Great Wall! 6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Jiayuguan, Gansu Province

In Jiayuguan City, located in Gansu Province, the western starting point of the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that China is proud of, is preserved. Jiayuguan was not only an important stronghold for the defense of the west but also a crucial hub on the east-west Silk Road. Among the three major passes, it is said to be the most solid and magnificent.
Standing majestically amidst the desolate Gobi Desert, Jiayuguan offers a truly impressive sight for travelers. Here are 5 recommended tourist spots in Jiayuguan that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Jiayuguan Fortress

About 5 kilometers west of Jiayuguan City lies the crucial western stronghold, Jiayuguan Fortress. It’s only about a 20-minute drive, making it easily accessible from the city center. Jiayuguan Fortress is made up of an inner city, an outer city, and the Great Wall, extending a total length of 60 kilometers—truly an impressive structure.
Like the world-famous Great Wall of China, Jiayuguan, standing proudly in the desolate land, is a spectacular sightseeing spot. Its walls and towers are dignified and grand, sure to captivate any visitor. Of course, it’s not just the fortress itself—the surrounding scenery is equally breathtaking. From the fortress walls, you can enjoy the majestic view of the Qilian Mountains.

2. July 1st Glacier (Qiyi Glacier)

The Qiyi Glacier lies about 116 kilometers southwest of Jiayuguan City, around a 2-hour and 30-minute drive. It is part of the Qilian Mountain Range. Interestingly, Jiayuguan boasts the glacier closest to an urban area in all of Asia. The ice is an average of 70 meters thick, with the thickest parts reaching 120 meters. Trekking across this vast glacier offers a unique adventure you won’t find at other tourist destinations!
The best time to visit is from May to October, with October being especially recommended. From the base park, there’s about a 2-hour hiking trail to the glacier. Since it’s not yet fully commercialized as a tourist site, you can experience the pure and stunning beauty of the glacier. Rare flora and fauna also inhabit the area—you might be lucky enough to spot them! However, the glacier can be slippery, so if you’re joining a tour, be sure to gear up with hiking boots and sunscreen.

3. First Pier of the Great Wall (Changcheng Diyi Dun)

The First Pier of the Great Wall is a tourist spot located at the westernmost part of Jiayuguan Fortress. From here, the Great Wall stretches 7.5 kilometers to the fortress itself. This site faces the Gobi Desert to the west and Jiayuguan City to the north.
There’s a semi-underground observatory where you can take in magnificent views of the desert and rivers. It’s an ideal spot for sightseeing. The vast, dry desert landscape is a rare sight and offers a unique experience. Enjoy the natural, artistic beauty created by nature itself.

4. Wei-Jin Tombs

The Wei-Jin Tombs are a tourist spot where you can feel the romance of ancient times. After descending about 50 steps into a small underground chamber, you’ll find yourself inside a tomb. As you pass through the narrow passageways, vivid and colorful murals come into view! It’s hard to believe they were painted about 1,500 years ago because they are so well-preserved and still captivate modern visitors. The murals vividly depict scenes from the lives of the buried individuals, as well as ancient tools and animals—making them truly fascinating. Since there are fewer tourists here, you can explore at a relaxed pace. Even if you take your time, you can enjoy the site in about an hour.
The tombs are located in the outskirts of Jiayuguan City, about a 50-minute drive from the city center and around 15 minutes by car from Jiayuguan Airport. Unfortunately, photography inside the tombs is prohibited, but there’s a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and mementos.

5. Suspended Great Wall (Xuanbi Great Wall)

About a 20-minute drive from Jiayuguan City, you’ll find the famous tourist spot, the Suspended Great Wall (Xuanbi Changcheng). As its name suggests, this steep route involves climbing 500 steps at a 45-degree incline. It takes about an hour to complete a full circuit, and although it’s a tough climb, the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. The vast Gobi Desert stretches endlessly before your eyes, leaving you in awe. If you’re confident in your physical strength, this is a must-visit spot. Be sure to watch your step as you climb! If you’re visiting Jiayuguan, you shouldn’t miss this attraction.

6. Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum

Located along the road to the left of Jiayuguan, the Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum has a unique castle-like appearance. This history museum displays relics and artifacts excavated from the Great Wall. It features seven large exhibition halls, each filled with fascinating exhibits. If you want to deepen your understanding of the history of the Great Wall of China, this is the perfect place to visit!
By learning some background information here first, your experience touring Jiayuguan’s historical sites will become even more enjoyable. Definitely worth a visit!

◎ Summary

Jiayuguan City is home to many wonderful tourist spots, starting with the magnificent Jiayuguan Fortress. The Great Wall of China, now registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known around the world as the “Great Wall,” is one of humanity’s most impressive architectural feats. Jiayuguan Fortress served as a key point of defense for this great wall.
Why not take a trip to Jiayuguan City and explore Jiayuguan Fortress and the Great Wall, which once played such a vital role in history? Along with the vast natural landscapes like deserts, you’re sure to have an unforgettable travel experience!

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The Key to the Western End of the Great Wall! 6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Jiayuguan, Gansu Province