Yanmen Pass, the first pass of the Great Wall of China

Nestled among the vast mountains of northern China lies a pass renowned for millennia. Controlling the Central Plains to the south and guarding the northern frontier, it has been a vital passage connecting agricultural and nomadic civilizations since ancient times. This is Yanmen Pass, known as the "First Pass of China." Surrounded by mountains, the city walls wind their way along the mountain slopes, with the gate towers majestically perched at the strategic pass. From above, the rugged terrain is laid out before you. Layer upon layer of peaks rise on either side, leaving only a natural pass in the middle, forming a formidable military stronghold. For over two thousand years, countless dynasties have built defenses here, and countless soldiers have garrisoned and fought here. From the flames of the Warring States period to the prosperous Han and Tang dynasties; from border wars to the defense of the Great Wall, Yanmen Pass has always witnessed the historical changes of northern China. The smoke of war has long since dissipated, but this majestic pass, standing for millennia, still watches over this land. Today, let's step into Yanmen Pass together and explore why it's hailed as the First Pass of China.