Written by Veronica |
The Overhanging Great Wall of China is about 11 kilometers away from Jiayuguan city and about 8 kilometers north of Jiayuguan Fort. Because it is built on the ridge of about 45 degrees, like a winding dragon swooping down from the Black Mountain, it is named the”Overhanging Great Wall”.
Overhanging Great Wall Facts
- Location: North slope of Black Mountain, Shiguan Gorge, 8 kilometers north of Jiayuguan Fort
- Opening Time: 8:30-22:30 (from May 1stto October 31th); 8:30-18:00 (from November 1st to April 30th)
- Ticket Price: 21 yuan/person
- Suggested Visiting Time: 2-3 hours
Overview of Overhanging Great Wall
The Overhanging Great Wall of China was built in 1539, as a part of the Jiayuguan Great Wall military defense system. It was built of masonry structure with soil and stone of the Black Mountain. The original Overhanging Great Wall is 4 meters wide at the bottom, 2-meter upper wide, and 0.5-6 meters high. This project was completed in 1540, and the existing Overhanging Great Wall of 750 meters long was renovated in 1987.
Standing on the Overhanging Great Wall, as far as you can see is the rocky wall stretching to the top of the Qilian mountain. Get a great bird ‘s-eye view from the top of the wall, you will enjoy the vast and magnificent scenery on both sides. On one side are barren mountains and the Gobi desert, on the other side are fertile plains and cultivated land.
What to See in Overhanging Great Wall
The subject of the Overhanging Great Wall scenic area mainly revolves around the culture of the ancient Silk Road and the Great Wall. It provides visitors with a great chance to experience China’s history and culture in depth. In the scenic area, you can visit the “Ancient Silk Road” sculpture group, to feel the glory of the ancient Silk Road in the past. Besides, you can tour around the ancient weapons exhibition of Jiayuguan, to learn the wisdom and greatness of ancient military defense.
The Overhanging Great Wall scenic area can be divided into four main areas:
Ancient Silk Road Cultural Corridor Area
The Ancient Silk Road Cultural Corridor almost spans the whole scenic area, among which the “Ancient Silk Road Sculpture Group” is a highlight. It displays the glorious history of the Silk Road and carvings of seven major historical figures of China. There are Zhang Qian, Huo Qubing and Ban Chao, etc., who appeared in the Jiayuguan area in ancient China, and their attendants, horses, camels and carriages.
Overhanging Great Wall Military Defense System Area
The military defense system area boasts the Overhanging Great Wall of China, the Watergate and the ancient weapons exhibition, etc. Here visitors can feel up close the invulnerability and solidity of the ancient military defense.
Leisure Resort Area
The leisure resort refers to the green area on the north side of the Great Wall and the small square at the entrance of the scenic spot. This area provides tourists with barbecue, tea, chess and card entertainment and tourist souvenirs shop and other leisure services. In that way, you can have a good relax after sightseeing.
Management Area
The management area mainly consists of the tourism service facilities on the south side of the Overhanging Great Wall, such as management center, public toilets, squares, parking lots, etc. These facilities could ensure the orderly operation of the scenic spot and the safety of visitors.
How to Get to Overhanging Great Wall
By bus: You can take the bus No.4/No.6 to Jiayuguan Fort, then transfer to the sightseeing bus to the Overhanging Great Wall.
By chartered car: It is convenient to charter a car to the Overhanging Great Wall directly, with the fare around 80 yuan.
By train: After arriving at Jiayuguan Railway Station or Jiayuguan South Railway Station, you can take the direct sightseeing bus to the Overhanging Great Wall.
Attractions nearby Overhanging Great Wall
- Jiayuguan Fort: Known for the “Greatest Pass under Heaven”, itis a must-see attraction for people visiting Jiayuguan city.
- Weijin Tombs: This cluster of thousands of tombs is more than 2,000 years old.Here you can see many murals depicting real-life scenes and myths and legends.
- Qilian Mountains: Not only can you enjoy the plateau mountain landscape, but you can also see the vast grassland and white glaciers.
Recommended Silk Road Tours with Overhanging Great Wall
- 8 Days China Silk Road Tour of Qinghai & Gansu
- 6 Days Silk Road Tour of Zhangye Jiayuguan Dunhuang
- 8 Days Silk Road Adventure Tour from Xining to Dunhuang
