One of the three most famous passes along the Great Wall of China, the Juyong Pass is also the section nearest to the city. Nestled in a valley surrounded by majestic mountains, it has long been a military stronghold. The first emperor of the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644) ordered the pass to be rebuilt to protect the northern borders from Mongol invasions. At the heart of the pass is a high platform called the Cloud Platform, made of ivory white marble. Marvel at the exquisite statues of the four heavenly gods and sutra scriptures carved on the walls of the doorway. To savor the divine beauty of the Juyong Pass, visit in springtime to see the pretty blossoms; or in autumn where leaves of gold await to calm your senses.