The Yangguan Pass Museum (阳关博物馆), located within the Yangguan Scenic Area in Dunhuang, is a privately managed museum that integrates preservation, research, exhibition, and tourism. According to the National Cultural Heritage Administration’s data from September 2020, the museum houses 2,702 items/sets of artifacts and attracts approximately 310,000 visitors annually.
Yangguan Pass was established during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty as part of his strategy to “establish four commanderies and hold two passes.” Situated strategically along a river and flanked by rugged terrain, Yangguan Pass, together with the northern Yumen Pass, served as a critical defense point for the Han Dynasty against invasions by nomadic tribes from the northwest. Additionally, it was a vital gateway on the Silk Road, facilitating the exchange of goods and culture between the Central Plains and the Western Regions, including Central Asia. The phrase “Yangguan Avenue” has since become synonymous with a broad and bright path, reflecting its historical importance in fostering East-West economic and cultural exchanges.
Opened on August 28, 2003, after breaking ground on April 21, 2001, the Yangguan Pass Museum occupies an area of 100,000 square meters, with a building area exceeding 20,000 square meters. The museum’s architecture emulates a Han Dynasty fortress, harmonizing with the surrounding historical ruins and the desert oasis landscape to create a majestic and evocative setting. The museum comprises nine distinct sections:
- Two Passes and Han Frontier Defense Museum: Showcasing the historical significance of Yangguan and Yumen Passes.
- Silk Road Museum: Highlighting the cultural and economic exchanges facilitated by the Silk Road.
- Yangguan Research Institute: Dedicated to the scholarly study of Yangguan Pass and its historical context.
- Han Dynasty Gateway Pavilion: An architectural feature symbolizing the gateway of the ancient pass.
- Replica Han Military Camp: Offering insights into the military life during the Han Dynasty.
- Yangguan Commander’s Residence: A reconstructed residence illustrating the lifestyle of a Han Dynasty commander.
- Replica Han Yangguan City: A scaled representation of the ancient city layout.
- Replica Han Residential Street: Depicting everyday life in a Han Dynasty settlement.
- Yangguan Study Hall: An educational facility for learning about the history and culture of the region.
The museum’s collection includes nearly 4,000 artifacts, of which 650 are considered precious. These items collectively provide a comprehensive overview of the history, culture, and daily life along the Silk Road and in the northwestern regions of China. The exhibits are meticulously curated to offer visitors a vivid portrayal of the ancient Silk Road’s glory and the strategic military significance of the Yangguan Pass.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Included in the ticket for Yangguan Pass Scenic Area |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 20.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-400-093-7128 |
Location and Transportation
The Yangguan Pass Museum is situated in the Yangguan Scenic Area, located 70 kilometers southwest of Dunhuang City in Gansu Province. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
By Car: Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi from Dunhuang City, which is a convenient option for a more direct and comfortable journey.
By Bus: Alternatively, there are buses available from Dunhuang City to Yangguan Town. This is a more economical option and allows visitors to experience the local transportation system.
