Is Jiange Pass Worth Visiting? What Attractions Does It Have?
Known for its grandeur, wonder, elegance and peril, Jiange Pass is the most strategic stronghold along the ancient Shu Road, well described by the ancient saying: "One man defending the pass can hold back ten thousand foes." Wondering if it is fun to visit and what highlights it offers? Here is a detailed introduction to its major scenic spots.
1. Suspended Glass Viewing Platform
Ranking first in Asia and second worldwide, this platform consists of a semi-circular glass walkway clinging to the cliff and a glass bridge spanning two mountain peaks. Walking on it will push your courage to the limit. You can overlook the towering precipices of Jiange Pass, enjoying an incredibly thrilling and breathtaking experience.
2. Bird Path
As depicted in the line "To the west stands the Taibai Peak, where only a bird's path crosses the summit of Emei", this path is famed for its steepness, narrowness and unique terrain. Carved into sheer cliffs, it is so narrow that only one person can pass at a time. The winding trail brings a heart-pounding adventure.
Tips
- The path is extremely dangerous. It is recommended to hike uphill.
- Start your visit early in the morning. The area gets crowded with tourists later in the day.
3. Reversible Cableway
While riding the cableway, you can admire the Seventy-Two Peaks of Jiange, sheer mountain cliffs, the spectacular suspended glass viewing platform, the ancient Liangshan Temple and centuries-old crape myrtle trees. It offers an effortless way to explore the legendary perilous Shu Road and appreciate the grand, precipitous and graceful scenery of Jiange Pass.
Among the Shu Road sections, Ladder Gorge features the most rugged and stunning landscapes. A mountain stream runs through the gorge, flanked by winding plank roads along the cliffs. Walking along these paths is full of thrills.
Other Highlights
Jiange Pass Tower
The current tower was rebuilt in the style of Ming Dynasty architecture in 2009. The original structure was demolished during the construction of the Sichuan-Shaanxi Highway. Though the ancient tower is gone, it remains the iconic symbol of Jiange Pass, with numerous legends passed down through generations.
Liangshan Temple
It is said that Emperor Wu of the Liang Dynasty once cultivated himself here, hence the construction of Liangshan Temple and the Memorial Hall for Emperor Wu. Facing south, the temple comprises the Mahavira Hall, Guanyin Hall, Scripture Repository, monks' quarters, dining halls and tea rooms. Surrounded by dense pine forests, the place gives visitors a sense of traveling back in time.
Statue of General Jiang Wei Defending the Pass
A tour along the ancient Shu Road of Jiange is like reading half of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. You can learn about the history of General Jiang Wei garrisoning the pass, and appreciate a great number of poems and literary works left by ancient scholars and artists across the scenic area.
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