Once considered the end of the "civilized" world, Jiayuguan Fort (Jiayuguan Chenglou) was Imperial China's westernmost stronghold at the end of the Great Wall. Beyond the fort's walls; primal fears in the forms of elemental demons and barbarian armies waited to ambush disgraced officials and exhiled poets cast out through the Gate of Conciliation. On the opposite side of the fort, the Gate of Enlightenment, where law-abiding citizens of the empire could come and go as they pleased. 

Built in 1372 to guard the perilous track continuing on between Qilian Shan (Qilian Mountains) and Hei Shan (Black Mountains), the fort, a classic imperial icon, now plays host to travelers eager to play the role of imperial guard on the fort's 10-meter high walls, and for visitors looking to brush up on their history at the excellent Great Wall Museum. 

Other areas of interest include Guanyu's Temple, situated just outside the east gate, a host of pavilions along the walls themselves, and the General's Mansion.