A Thousand Years at a Glance - Jiayuguan

Things to Prepare in Advance - Documents: Bring your ID card, student ID, senior citizen card, and other valid IDs to receive discounts on tickets. - Clothing: Prepare sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and warm outerwear. - Other items: Prepare moisturizing skincare products, lip balm, and common medications. Transportation Guide - By air: Jiayuguan Airport is about 12 km from the city center. You can take the airport bus or a taxi to the city center. - By train: Jiayuguan has two train stations: Jiayuguan Railway Station and Jiayuguan South Railway Station. High-speed trains usually stop at Jiayuguan South Railway Station. - Transportation within the city: You can travel by bus, taxi, or shared bikes. If you are traveling to more remote scenic spots, you can consider chartering a car or renting a car. Scenic Spot Introduction - Jiayuguan Fort: The westernmost pass of the Great Wall, known as the "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven". The fort consists of an inner city, an outer city, and a barbican. You can climb the tower to enjoy a distant view of the Qilian Mountains and the Gobi Desert. - The First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall: Also known as the Taolai River Beacon Tower, it is the starting point of the western section of the Great Wall. It stands on the cliffs of the Taolai River. You can experience the glass viewing platform and enjoy the thrilling and magnificent scenery. - Overhanging Great Wall: Built on a steep mountain ridge, it looks as if it is suspended in mid-air. You need to use both hands and feet to climb it. From the top, you can overlook the Heishan Gorge. - Donghu Ecological Tourism Scenic Area: There is a lake formed by the snowmelt of the Qilian Mountains. The Bihai Mingzhu Meteorological Tower in the park is a landmark building. The sunset over the lake at dusk is romantic. Food Recommendations - Jiayuguan barbecue: Made with high-quality local lamb or beef, grilled until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a rich aroma. - Mutton Noodle Soup: The mutton is cooked but not overcooked, with a chewy texture. The soup is fresh, spicy, and flavorful, rich but not greasy. - *Huguo*: Chicken is shredded and stewed until it becomes a paste, then mixed with *mahua* (fried dough twist), *fenpi* (mung bean sheet jelly), and *mianjin* (gluten). It is a local breakfast specialty. Accommodation Recommendations - Core area of the city: Near Jiayuguan Railway Station or the commercial street, convenient for transportation, shopping, and dining. - Near Jiayuguan Fort: You can choose characteristic inns or homestays to experience the ancient frontier customs and charm.