# Juyongguan Castle

- **Country:** China
- **Coordinates:** 40.288200, 116.068600
- **Location Text:** (居庸关)

Juyongguan Castle, more accurately known as Juyong Pass, is a historic mountain pass situated in the Changping District of Beijing, China, approximately 50 kilometers from the city center. Located within the 18-kilometer-long Guangou Valley, this strategic site serves as a crucial section of the Great Wall of China. Historically, it was designated as one of the Three Inner Passes protecting Beijing from northern invasions during the Ming Dynasty, alongside Daoma and Zijing passes. While the name Juyongguan dates back to the Qin Dynasty under Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the current pass route and its significant fortifications were primarily constructed and expanded during the Ming Dynasty to defend the ancient capital.

A defining architectural feature within the pass is the Cloud Platform, also known as the Crossing Street Tower. Built in 1342 during the Yuan Dynasty, this structure is crafted from white marble and originally stood about 9.5 meters tall. It initially supported three white pagodas, which were unfortunately destroyed during the turbulent transition between the Yuan and Ming dynasties. The pass itself comprises two sub-passes, with Badaling located to the north and Nan Pass to the south, forming a comprehensive defensive system that highlights traditional Chinese military engineering styles.

Today, Juyongguan remains a well-preserved landmark and a popular destination for visitors exploring the Great Wall. Its historical significance lies in its long-standing role as a vital connector between China's inner lands and its northern borders, witnessing centuries of dynastic changes and military conflicts. Although specific restoration dates vary, the site maintains its integrity as a testament to Ming-era expansion and Yuan-era artistry. The combination of the rugged mountain terrain, the enduring wall structures, and the ornate marble platform offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich martial and cultural heritage.

![Photo of Juyongguan Castle](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a0/Juyongguanfromnorth.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juyong_Pass (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)