Sanguan Pass

Sanguan Pass

Sanguan Pass

Sanguan Pass is located 30 kilometers north of the county seat, in Sanguan Village, Liupan Mountain Town. The three passes refer to the traditionally recognized Liupan Pass, which must be crossed when traveling west over the Liupan Mountains; Shengsheng Pass, which must be reached when crossing the Long Mountains southward; and Watting Pass, which must be passed when heading north out of the frontier. These three passes serve as the eastern entrances to the Guanzhong region, hence later referred to as Sanguan Pass. Historically known as Tanzheng Gorge, it is also called Jinfo Gorge. Sanguan Pass was historically an important strategic stronghold. Today, the Lanzhou-Xi’an Highway runs through the gorge, where verdant cliffs and picturesque mountain and water views create a uniquely charming atmosphere, making it a place for historical reflection. Legend has it that Yang Liulang and Yang Qilang once stationed and deployed troops at Sanguan Pass. To commemorate the Yang Family Generals, the local people built the Liulang Temple (which includes the Liulang Hall, Qilang Hall, and Guan Yu Hall) in 1985.