Guarding the Western Frontier
In the early Han Dynasty, the western border of the country was ceaselessly invaded by Huns. Instead of fighting back, the weak state rulers preferred to marry imperial daughters to Huns' leaders to get temporary peace. When Emperor Wu rose to power, this cowardly policy was immediately abolished. He launched fierce counterattacks on a large scale, and drove Hun's troops out of the territory. In order to strengthen the stability of the western frontier, two passes, Yumenguan and Yangguan were set up along the border. From then on, these two passes, like two royal soldiers, honorably guarded the western gate for their motherland.

Gateway of the Silk Road
Located along the northern branch of the Silk Road, Yumen Pass also served as a post station for businessmen and ambassadors. It has witnessed the prosperity of business trade along the old trading route. Silk, porcelain, and tea was transported to the western regions in an endless stream. Specialties of the west countries such as spice, fruit, music, and religious beliefs were introduced to central plain at the same time. It is said that the grapes, pomegranates, and walnuts now growing in central China were originally from the western area. Two thousand years later, the singing of camel bells have disappeared. The cry of sellers in the markets is completely gone. Only an isolated castle remains there to remind you of its glorious past.