Located about 4 miles (6.5 kilometers) to the northwest of Jiayuguan Pass, and about 7 miles (11 kilometers) from Jiayuguan City, the Overhanging Great Wall is an important part of the defense network of Jiayuguan (Jiayu Pass). It was built in the year 1539- 1540 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) to strengthen the defensive capability of the Jiayuguan area.
Built on the eastern slope of Black Mountain, it is not visible to anyone looking from west to east. Enemies thought they could enter inner China from here, the Black Mountain Canyon, as long as they rounded the Jiayuguan Pass. However, they were totally mistaken. After they went over the mountain with great difficulty, they found a very firm barrier in their path that was impossible to cross.
Viewed from a distance, the Great Wall appears very like a dragon overhanging the slope, hence the name. It was built by using local gravel and yellow earth, layer upon layer, and consists of the main path, battlements and three observation posts. Originally, it measured 0.9 mile (1.5 kilometers) long. However, due to natural disasters and human destruction, only 820 yards (750 meters) remains, with 253 yards (231 meters) climbing onto the north slope of the Black Mountain, which is 492-feet (150-meter) high and tilted 45 degrees. Its imposing appearance and manner are very much like those of Badaling in Beijing, so it is reputed as the "Western Badaling".
Opening Hours June to November: 8:30-20:00
December to May: 8:30-18:00
Admission Fee CNY 31
Tip: You can buy a combo ticket to visit the Great Wall, together with the First Fire Tower and Jiayuguan. The combo tickets costs CNY 110 from May to October, and CNY 90 from November to April.
How to Tour Overhanging Great Wall
Commence hiking from the Water Gate and walk northwards along the steps, you will reach the top of the Great Wall, where there is a watchtower. Some sections are quite flat, and other sections are precipitous. You need to be careful.
There are ladders for you to climb up into the watchtower.
Standing on the top, you can overlook the vast gobi desert dotted with oases in the distance. Also, you can look back at the part you have climbed, which resembles a golden belt on the black mountain slope.
You can descend along the convenient footpath. At the end of the path, you can enjoy some interesting sculptures about the ancient Silk Road, such as a camel team and some historical figures. Also, there are Cliff Paintings of the Black Mountain, Huguo Temple and Haihui Pagoda nearby for you to visit.
How to Get There from Jiayuguan City
There is no public transport to the scenic area, so you may take a taxi for about CNY 50.
Or, you can charter a car to tour around Jiayuguan Pass, First Fire Tower, and the Great Wall. It costs about CNY 150-180.
When is the Best Time for a Visit?
The best time lasts from May to October when the temperature is moderate. Try to avoid May Day Holiday (May 1st to 3rd) and National Day Holiday (October 1st to 7th) because you will meet more visitors than usual.
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