Located in Dai County, Xinzhou City, Shanxi Province, Yanmen Pass is a crucial stronghold along the Great Wall, renowned for its perilous terrain and hailed as "The First Pass Under Heaven". As an ancient saying goes, "Of the nine strategic passes in the world, Yanmen ranks first". It is now a national 5A-level tourist attraction and a key cultural relic under state protection.
Overview
Basic Information
- Scale: Perimeter of 20km, with current pass structures built in 1374 (7th year of Hongwu reign, Ming Dynasty).
- Historical Status: One of the most important military fortresses in ancient northern China, witnessing over 2,000 years of warfare and peace.
Historical Development
- Construction Period: First built by King Wuling of Zhao during Warring States Period, with 2,400+ years history.
- Military Role: Site of over 1,700 recorded battles, serving as crucial barrier against northern nomads.
- Cultural Significance: Key node on ancient Silk Road and Shanxi merchants' caravan routes, epitome of frontier culture.
Main Attractions
Pass Structures
- Tianxian Gate: Main gate with inscription "Yanmen Pass" said to be written by Empress Wu Zetian.
- Dili Gate: Rear gate with well-preserved Ming Dynasty brick archway.
- Jingbian Temple: Memorial temple for frontier garrison soldiers, housing statues of Li Mu and Yang Family Generals.
- Yan Pagoda: Ming Dynasty structure serving as ancient observation post.
Military Relics
- Great Wall Ruins: Remains of walls, watchtowers and beacon towers from different periods.
- Ancient Battlefields: Site of famous battles like Li Mu's victory over Xiongnu and Yang Family Generals' resistance against Liao.
- Barracks Ruins: Foundations of Ming Dynasty frontier garrison quarters.
Featured Experiences
Cultural Activities
- Frontier Poetry Recitation: Recite famous frontier poems like "The Governor of Yanmen" at ancient pass.
- Yang Family Generals Show: Watch live performances depicting their patriotic stories.
- Ancient Military Experience: Try on ancient armor and practice traditional military skills like archery.
Outdoor Activities
- Great Wall Hiking: Trek along ancient Great Wall ruins to feel frontier grandeur.
- Night Tour: Summer evening visits with special lighting effects on ancient pass.
- Photography: Autumn when mountains are ablaze with color is best season for photography.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Peak Season (Apr 1-Oct 31): 08:00-18:30
- Off Season (Nov 1-Mar 31): 08:30-17:30
Ticket Information
- Full Ticket: 90 RMB/person
- Concession Ticket: 45 RMB/person (students, seniors etc.)
- Shuttle Bus: 20 RMB/person (round trip)
Transportation
- Public Transport: Take bus from Taiyuan East Bus Station to Dai County, then transfer to scenic area shuttle.
- Self-drive: From Taiyuan via Erguang Expressway, exit at Dai County and follow signs for about 15km.
- Parking: Large parking lot available for 500 vehicles.
Travel Tips
- Best Season: May to October with pleasant weather, September-October for best autumn colors.
- Equipment: Bring windproof jacket and hiking shoes due to high elevation.
- Safety Notice: Some Great Wall sections are steep - exercise caution when visiting.