Visitors enjoy beautiful scenary at Lanmaqiang Scenic Area in Guangyuan, Southwest China's Sichuan province. [Photo provided by Liu Xinliang]

A group of outdoor enthusiasts are seen hiking in the Lanmaqiang Scenic Area in Guangyuan, Sichuan province, on Feb 12.

"When spring comes, the roadside views are refreshing. Weather conditions are pleasant and the air is clean because of the ancient cypresses," said Zhao Jun, one of the visitors.

Soldiers in the Three Kingdoms period (220-280) are said to have built lanmaqiang, the retaining walls on one side of the post roads ensured the safety of messengers during battle.

Located eight kilometers west of Jianzhou ancient town, Jiange county, and about 40 km from Jianmen Pass, it is the most important section of Jianmen Shudao, a man-made post road dating back more than 3,000 years.

The walls are mostly built at steep bends, and are generally about 1 meter high and 0.8 meters wide. The length depends on the condition and hazardousness of the road.

The buildings are firm; they are made stone plus dirt or lime. The road is paved with stones with clear anti-skid marks to prevent accidents.

There are nearly 240 ancient cypress trees on both sides of a 5 km-stretch of Jiange Shudao, which have protected the roadbed for thousands of years against the wind and rain. 

"The Jiange horse barrier mostly maintains its original appearance and has avoided much damaged. It is characterized by its ancient roads, trees and transportation facilities," said Wang Qingping, director of the county’s culture, tourism and sports bureau.