An Impregnable Pass (Huangyaguan)

An architectural wonder visible form the moon, China's Great Wall represents the awesome power of human creativity and the imposing grandeur of a civilization that is already 5000 years old.

Starting from Shanhaiguan Pass, the Great Wall meanders up and down through the lofty Yanshan Mountain and then reaches Huangyaguan Pass (pass of yellow cliffs) of Jixian County in the northernmost part of Tianjin.

Seen from afar, the line of the battlements is like a dented knife clinging to the sky. In antiquity, Huangyaguan Pass was of great military importance. It was a strategic point for any invasion attempts from the north against Beijing. This part of the Great Wall was first built more than 1400 years ago and was renovated many times.

Juhe River is an important mountain pass here. The Great Wall spans the river from the east to the west, intercepting the river like a powerful pair of iron tongs. In the mountain ranges on the east bank of the river majestically stands Taipingzhai (Village of Peace). It is like a big and high shield, and even birds have difficulty flying over it.

The Great Wall of Huangyaguan Pass is impregnable. Among the multiple ranges of hills are those high and low battle stands, watchtowers and smoke towers. From the watchtowers soldiers shot at any approaching enemies. From the smoke towers, fire was made to send smoke signals up into the air as a warning of any impending attacks from enemies.