Jinshanling Great Wall

Introduction

Jinshanling Great Wall is located in Luanping County, Hebei Province and is 125 kilometers northeast of Beijing. This section is connecte to the Simatai section of the Great Wall and starts from Longyu Pass in the west ending at Beijing Watch Tower in the east. It was built in 1570 during the Ming Dynasty and is one of the few sections built in the Ming Dynasty that remain complete. This section is approximately 10.5 kilometers long, has 5 passes, 67 towers, and 2 beacons. Although it is smaller and narrower to that of the Badaling Great Wall and Mutianyu Great Wall, it boasts a complex and well-preserved fortification system and beautiful natural scenery.

Having many structures and functions, the beacon towers are either one-tiered or two-tiered. On the first floor there are windows for shooting arrows. The roofs of the towers vary as they can be flat, arched, quadrangular or octagonal. Some are used to store weapons and hay, while others are used for soldiers to sleep in. Among them, the most celebrated are the Big and Small Jinshan Beacon Towers.

Jinshanling Great Wall was called the essence of Great Wall by experts. There is saying that can be used to describe this section of the great wall which goes as follows: “If one man guards the pass, ten thousand are unable to get through.” Another saying that characterizes this section is, “never return by the same road.” Many leaders inside and outside of China speak highly of its exquisite design and the scenery nearby.

To increase tourist resources for travelers, an 800-meter-long cableway was built. Also, there are karts and prompt dropping, and so on. Many activities such as dance parties, wedding parties, and barbecue parties, can be held there. Many television stars and singers have gone there to film and take pictures. According to a scientific survey, the Jinshanling Great Wall is the most popular among tourists.

Ways to expore the Jinshanling Great Wall

Hiking: Take a leisurely hike along the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, exploring the various watchtowers and fortifications along the way.

Photography: The Jinshanling Great Wall offers stunning views and is a popular destination for photographers.

Guided Tour: Join a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the Jinshanling Great Wall.

Cable Car: Take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the Jinshanling Great Wall for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Horse Riding: Explore the Jinshanling Great Wall on horseback for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking Itinerary:

• Start at the Jinshanling parking lot.
• Hike to the East Tower, taking in views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
• Continue to the Central Watchtower, where you can climb up to the top for panoramic views.
• Walk along the wall to the West Tower, admiring the scenery and visiting the restored watchtowers along the way.
• Descend from the West Tower to the parking lot.

Hiking Tips:

• Hiking time: 2-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with steep climbs and uneven steps.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, and a camera.
• Entrance fee: CNY 65 ($10) per person.

When is the best time to visit Jinshanling Great Wall

The best time to visit the Jinshanling Great Wall is usually during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and visibility is good.

As for the best time of day to visit, early morning and late afternoon are recommended as the light is more favorable for photography and the crowds are typically smaller. Avoid visiting during the midday when the sun is at its strongest and the temperatures are highest.