Jiayuguan is a stop in the throat of Hexi that is worth making a special stop. For 2 days and 1 night, between Jiayuguan Pass City and the First Pier of the Great Wall, encounter the unique atmosphere of Jiayuguan.
The first impression Jiayuguan gives is almost always from Jiayuguan Pass. When it actually appears before your eyes, the imagination in the picture suddenly gains weight, and the journey officially begins from that moment.
When it comes to Jiayuguan, locals usually mention the First Pier of the Great Wall. Only after experiencing it do you realize that landmarks are never isolated scenery, but the gateway to an entire section of life.
Within the cliff-hanging Great Wall lies another side of Jiayuguan. With less crowding from tourists and more everyday warmth, you suddenly feel like you've briefly become a member of this place.
If you have the energy, go explore the Lai River Gorge. There are no standard answers there, only your own rhythm, which fits the itinerary just right.
Jiayuguan taught me one thing: you don't have to chase after every sight, just as Jiayuguan Pass City taught me—the best scenery is often where you're willing to stop and look at it carefully.
Route fragment
2 days and 1 night
- Day 1: Arrive at Jiayuguan, first encounter with Jiayuguan Pass
- Day 2 Take a closer look at the First Pier of the Great Wall
- Day 3: Take a closer look at the Cliffside Great Wall