Shimen Pass

Introducing Shimen Pass

Shimen Pass, nestled on the riverbank behind Cangshan Mountain in Dali, features two cliffs hundreds of meters high, shaped like two giant stone gates. Clear streams and cascading waterfalls cascade through the canyons, creating a magical spectacle. Surrounded by towering cliffs, deep canyons, and swift streams, Shimen Pass is a site truly carved by ghosts and gods, creating a world of its own, evoking the power of "one man guarding the pass, ten thousand cannot break through."

Xu Xiake, a famous Ming Dynasty traveler, wrote in his travelogue after visiting Shimen Pass: "As I looked eastward, the clouds suddenly split, revealing two green lotus petals, piercing the ground, standing side by side and facing each other. Within, towering mountains were reflected, and shadows of clouds appeared and disappeared, which was breathtaking." "I only saw the Stone Gate, so close at hand, it was close together, towering thousands of feet high, with a distance of no more than two feet. Its tops were the same at both ends, and its base could only accommodate a stream of water... The Stone Gate cliffs split the clouds and cut green, high and close together, it is a truly amazing sight."

Most astonishingly, a large cliff painting covering approximately 16 square meters was discovered in October 1994 on the hill behind nearby Songlin Village. The painting features over 200 depictions of animals, people, fruit trees, palm trees, houses, hunting scenes, and circle dances. The largest painting measures approximately 1 square meter, while the smallest measures about 5 square centimeters. Experts have identified it as a Bronze Age work and named it the "Yangbi Cangshan Cliff Paintings." They provide detailed information for studying society, ethnicity, religion, art, production, and life two to three thousand years ago, and have become a major attraction for visitors.

Climate and best time to travel

The low-latitude plateau has a monsoon climate; Shimen Pass combines majestic, dangerous, strange, beautiful and secluded natural landscapes with cultural landscapes with profound historical and cultural heritage, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Water Curtain Waterfall, Jade Emperor Pavilion, Cliff Carvings, Sheshen Cliff, Ten Thousand Volumes of Heavenly Book;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

120 yuan/person (including high-altitude experience plank road)

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Shimen Pass

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shimen Pass is a historically significant mountain pass in Yunnan, known for its role in ancient military strategies. It provided access to the region, connecting important trade and military routes. Over time, it has become a symbol of the area's natural beauty and its importance in Chinese history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shimen Pass is located in the Dali region of Yunnan Province. It is best accessed by taxi or private car, as public transportation options to the pass are limited. A taxi ride from Dali city center takes about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, walking is possible if you are up for a more adventurous approach, though it might take longer.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shimen Pass is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to Shimen Pass is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There are no online ticketing options available for the pass.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required for Shimen Pass. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit. However, during peak travel seasons or holidays, it may be helpful to arrive early to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Shimen Pass typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend hiking or taking in the scenery. For a more relaxed visit, you can spend up to half a day enjoying the views and local atmosphere.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main viewpoint overlooking the valley and surrounding mountains.
• The historical markers and plaques detailing the pass's military significance.
• The scenic walking trails that lead to various vantage points of the landscape.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and sometimes guides can provide insight into the pass's history and local culture. Audio guides are generally not available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main viewing platform offers stunning views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains, perfect for landscape photography.
• There are several smaller, quieter vantage points along the trails where you can capture the scenery from different angles.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance and follow the main trail to the first viewpoint. From there, you can choose to explore additional trails leading to smaller lookout points. The loop trail is well-marked and offers the best scenic views. Allow time for short breaks along the way to enjoy the natural surroundings.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not available at Shimen Pass. The attraction is best visited during the daytime to enjoy the natural beauty and views.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Shimen Pass can get crowded on weekends and during national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, preferably in the morning when the weather is cooler and the site is less busy.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the entrance. There are small local shops near the entrance where you can buy snacks and bottled water. However, there are no large restaurants or cafes inside the attraction itself.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Shimen Pass has some uneven terrain, and certain areas of the trail may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. Children can enjoy the area, but it’s best to supervise them closely. For visitors with mobility challenges, it's advisable to check the accessibility of specific routes before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is often preferred for small purchases at the site, but mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly accepted in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local restaurants in Dali offer a variety of Yunnan specialties, including rice noodles and hotpot.
• There are also small cafés around Dali Old Town, where you can enjoy tea and light snacks after visiting the pass.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are widely available in Dali, including in the restaurants near Shimen Pass. Halal food can also be found in some local eateries catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Dali Old Town offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
• For a more scenic stay, consider booking a hotel or guesthouse near the lake or within walking distance of the pass.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Dali Ancient Town is a popular spot to visit, with its traditional Bai architecture and cultural sites.
• The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple is another nearby landmark worth visiting.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around Dali and near Shimen Pass sell local handicrafts, such as traditional Bai embroidery, silver jewelry, and pottery. You can also find locally made tea and textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• After visiting Shimen Pass, taxis or buses can take you back to Dali city center or other nearby attractions like Dali Old Town or the Three Pagodas.
• If you're heading to other parts of Yunnan, buses and trains from Dali are available for longer trips.