Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province has turned into a wonderland after snow fell on Monday.
Jiayuguan Pass was not only the starting point of the Great Wall of Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), which was built across the Gobi Desert, but also a vital pass on the ancient Silk Road.
An aerial view of Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province, December 23, 2018. /VCG Photo
An aerial view of Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province, December 23, 2018. /VCG Photo
An aerial view of Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
An aerial view of Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
An aerial view of Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
An aerial view of Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
Jiayuguan Pass in northwest China's Gansu Province. /VCG Photo
As an ancient fortress, Jiayuguan Pass was a vital area for defense against attacks from the northwest in the Ming Dynasty.
Jiayuguan Pass got its name as "the First and Greatest Pass under Heaven" for its strategic, commanding position and grand presence.