The Overhanging Great Wall (悬壁长城), located in Jiayuguan City, Gansu Province, stands as a testament to ancient defensive engineering and strategic military architecture. Built during the Ming Dynasty, specifically in the 18th year of the Jiajing reign (1539), this section of the Great Wall was constructed under the supervision of Li Han, the military commissioner of Suzhou, to bolster the defenses of Jiayuguan Pass.
The construction of the Overhanging Great Wall was a response to the strategic need to fortify the southern mountainsides surrounding Jiayuguan Pass. Perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the Shiguanxia Ravine, this segment of the Great Wall extends approximately 15 kilometers. Its completion in the 19th year of Jiajing’s reign (1540) not only enhanced the fortifications of Jiayuguan but also earned it the nickname “断壁长城” (Duànbì Chángchéng), which translates to “Broken Wall Great Wall,” due to its steep descent from the mountain ridge, appearing as if it were hanging from the cliffs – a spectacle that earned it the moniker “悬壁长城” (Xuánbì Chángchéng), or the Overhanging Great Wall.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Overhanging Great Wall
- Vlog about the Overhanging Great Wall
- Other Attractions in Jiayuguan City
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 110 RMB (1st May – 31st October) 90 RMB (1st November – 30th April) |
| Opening Hours | 9.30 – 18.00; Last admission: 17.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0937-6396110 0086-0937-6395099 |
Location and Transportation
The Overhanging Great Wall (悬壁长城) is located on the northern slopes of Black Mountain (Heishan) at Shiguanxia Ravine, approximately 8 kilometers north of Jiayuguan Fortress in Jiayuguan City, Gansu Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
1. By High-Speed Train and Bus
- High-Speed Train: Take a high-speed train to Jiayuguan Railway Station from major cities such as Lanzhou, Beijing, or Xi’an.
- Public Bus: At Jiayuguan Railway Station, you can catch a public bus to the Jiayuguan Scenic Area. Buses such as No. 1 or No. 2 travel to the scenic area from the station.
2. Shuttle Bus Service
The Jiayuguan Scenic Area provides a direct shuttle bus service with two main routes:
- Route 1: South Gate Parking Lot of Jiayuguan Fortress → Overhanging Great Wall
- Route 2: South Gate Parking Lot of Jiayuguan Fortress → First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall
These shuttle buses run every 30 minutes, offering a convenient and efficient transportation option for visitors.
Highlights of Overhanging Great Wall
Architectural Features
The surviving section of the Overhanging Great Wall spans about 750 meters after reconstruction efforts in 1987. It features a wall base 4 meters wide, tapering to 2 meters at the top, and varying in height from 0.5 to 6 meters. The structure consists of a layer of stone blocks approximately 10-15 centimeters thick, topped by a layer of compacted earth measuring 10-12 centimeters. One of the most remarkable aspects is a 231-meter stretch that hangs precariously 150 meters above the ground, creating a visual illusion of the wall clinging to the mountain like an arm stretched out across the ridge.
Often referred to as the “Western Simatai” due to its resemblance to the Simatai section of the Great Wall near Beijing, the Overhanging Great Wall not only serves as a historical site but also as a hub for cultural exploration and recreational activities. Its rugged terrain and panoramic views make it a favorite destination for hikers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking to experience the grandeur of ancient Chinese fortifications.
Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Overhanging Great Wall can explore its strategic military defense systems, including bastions, watchtowers, and defensive walls. The site is divided into four main functional zones:
- Shiguanxia Ancient Silk Road Cultural Corridor Area: This zone spans the entire area of the site and features sculptures depicting scenes from the ancient Silk Road, enriching visitors’ understanding of historical trade routes.
- Overhanging Great Wall Military Defense System Area: Focused on the main architectural features of the Overhanging Great Wall, this area includes defensive structures and exhibits showcasing ancient military weaponry and strategies.
- Leisure and Vacation Area: Located north of the Great Wall, this zone offers green spaces for relaxation, an entrance plaza providing services like barbecues, tea houses, and souvenir shops, catering to the recreational needs of visitors.
- Management Area: Situated south of the Great Wall, this zone houses administrative facilities, public amenities such as restrooms, parking lots, and a management center ensuring efficient visitor services.
