The Jinshanling Great Wall (金山岭长城), situated on the peaks of Daxiao Jinshanling in Luanping County, Hebei Province, is a significant segment of the Ming Dynasty’s Great Wall, stretching over 15 kilometers from the east at Wangjing Tower to the west at Longyukou. Constructed under the command of General Qi Jiguang in 1567, this section stands out for its intricate architecture, boasting the most complex and densely populated enemy towers and battle platforms along the entire Great Wall.
Rising to a height of approximately 7 meters and with a base width of 6 meters, the wall’s upper width is 5 meters, allowing for the passage of five horses abreast. This stretch of the Great Wall is adorned with a multitude of enemy towers, battle platforms, and barracks, totaling 158 structures. Jinshanling Great Wall is not only a well-preserved segment of the Ming Dynasty wall but also holds profound archaeological value, contributing significantly to the study of China’s Ming era and the life of Qi Jiguang.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Jinshanling Great Wall
- Vlog about Jinshanling Great Wall
- Recommended Routes
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | 65 RMB (1st April – 31st October) 55 RMB (1st November – 31st March the next year) |
| Shuttle Bus | One-Way: 10 RMB Round: 18 RMB |
| Cable Car | One-Way: 40 RMB Round: 60 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 5.00 – 18.00; Last admission: 17.00 (1st April – 31st October) 6.30 – 17.30; Last admission: 16.30 (1st November – 31st March the next year) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0314-8830222 |
Location and Transportation
The Jinshanling Great Wall is located in the northeastern part of China, within Luanping County (滦平县), Chengde City of Hebei Province. It is situated approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) northeast of Beijing, the capital city of China.
Tourists from Beijing can first take the subway to Wangjing West Station (望京西) on line 13 and line 15, transfer to the inter-provincial coach at the bus station, get off at Jjinshanling service area, and then take a taxi or walk to the east gate of the Jinshanling Scenic Area.
Highlights of Jinshanling Great Wall
Xianv Tower (Goddess Tower)
Among the 100-plus enemy towers on Jinshanling Great Wall, Xianv Tower stands out as the most aesthetically pleasing. Nestled amidst the foliage on the slope of Laohu Mountain, its lower part features meticulously fitted stones, while the upper part is topped with finely polished bricks. Internally, two large arches made of blue bricks form the structure, accompanied by three rain channels and ten arched gates. At the center of the top, a spiderweb-like octagonal coffered ceiling is meticulously crafted, surrounded by four brick columns. Visitors can experience delightful echoes while singing inside. Even the stone pillars at the entrance are adorned with intricately carved intertwined flowers holding a fresh peach, giving the impression of a delicate and beautiful fairyland pavilion rather than a defensive structure in times of war.
Storage Tower
Situated on a perilous peak between the strategic passes of Zhuanduo Kou and Shaling Kou, Storage Tower exhibits a spectacular and unique military design within the Great Wall. Adjacent to the tower’s base is a semicircular battle platform, 15 meters long and 2 meters high, filled with shooting holes. Positioned halfway up the mountain, about 50 meters from the tower, a horse-blocking wall, 15 meters long and several meters high, is constructed with large stones. In the event of enemy attacks, soldiers defending the tower can engage in initial combat from this vantage point. If the defense becomes untenable, they can swiftly retreat to the Storage Tower to continue the fight.
Big and Small Jinshan Towers
Big and small Jinshan Towers are another notable structure along Jinshanling Great Wall. The small arched gate of Samll Jinshan Tower is discreetly positioned, built on the side of an enemy tower with a steep cliff below. The unique architecture of Big and Small Jinshan Towers includes wooden-style small rooms on the upper floor, crafted from polished blue bricks, resembling wood and exuding a sense of delicacy and finesse. Historical records suggest that General Qi Jiguang recruited 3,000 soldiers from southern regions to reinforce the northern troops stationed in Jizhen. Legend has it that Big and Small Jinshan Towers was constructed by these soldiers, named after the Big and Small Jinshan Islands in Zhenjiang, as a tribute to their homes in Jiangnan.
Wangjing Tower
At the highest point of Jinshanling, you find Wangjing Tower. Offering panoramic views, visitors can spot the silhouette of Beijing in the morning light and its twinkling lights at night. Surrounding scenery includes the hazy Lingfeng Mountain to the east, the majestic Wohu Ridge to the west, the shimmering waves of the Miyun Reservoir to the south, and the undulating mountains and forests to the north.
Sunset and Sunrise Views
Sunset and sunrise at Jinshanling Great Wall are enchanting experiences that paint the sky with breathtaking hues. As the sun dips below the horizon, the ancient watchtowers and rugged terrain are bathed in a warm, golden glow, casting an ethereal spell. Witnessing the sun’s ascent brings the Great Wall to life, with its stone structures casting long shadows against the dawn-lit backdrop. The tranquil landscape of rolling hills and valleys takes on a magical aura during these moments. Sunset and sunrise at Jinshanling are nature’s own performances, offering a truly captivating spectacle that evokes wonder and reverence.
Gateway to Simatai
Jinshanling Great Wall stands as a gateway to Simatai, forming a captivating passage between two ancient marvels. This transition marks a journey through diverse architectural styles and landscapes. Beginning at Jinshanling’s meticulously crafted watchtowers and rolling hills, the path leads to Simatai’s rugged beauty and steep inclines. Together, they offer a seamless narrative of China’s history and ingenuity. As you traverse this passage, the evolution of defensive engineering and the changing contours of the land unfold, creating an immersive exploration of the Great Wall’s legacy
Vlog about Jinshanling Great Wall
Recommended Routes
Western Line – Easygoing Tour (2-2.5 hours):
- Start at the main entrance for ticket purchase.
- Take the shuttle bus to the ticket checkpoint.
- Proceed to Zhuan Duokou and turn right to head west on foot.
- Visit Xiwuyanlou, Taochunkou, and descend via the trail.
- Return to the ticket checkpoint.
- Estimated time: 2-2.5 hours.
- This route is suitable for a more relaxed experience, and the recently renovated area near Xiwuyan Tower tends to have fewer visitors.
Eastern Line – In-Depth Hiking Tour (3-4 hours):
- Begin at the east gate for ticket purchase and proceed through the ticket checkpoint.
- Ascend the trail to the Great Wall (approximately 40 minutes).
- Head west after reaching Dongwuyan Tower.
- Explore Guaijiaolou, Houchuankou, Shalingkou, Zhuan Duokou, and return to the ticket checkpoint.
- Take the shuttle bus back to the main entrance parking lot.
- Estimated time: 3-4 hours.
- This route is recommended for those with ample time and good physical fitness, offering a more immersive experience. The ascent to Dongwuyan TOwer provides panoramic views of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall spanning over 20 kilometers.
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Weekend Shuttle Service: On weekends, there is a shuttle bus from Beijing Dongzhimen to Jinshanling Great Wall, priced at 50 yuan per person for a round trip.
Recommended Photography Locations:
- Sunrise: Head to Houchuankou, turn left towards Flower Tower and Dongwuyan Tower, and ascend from Zhanduokou.
- Sea of Clouds: Ascend from Shalingkou, turn left towards Xiaojinshan Tower, and then turn right towards Jiangjun Tower.
- Sunset: Turn right at ZhuanDuokou towards Xiwuyan Tower and Taochun East Tower.
- Starry Sky: Ascend from ZhuanDuokou, turn right towards Xiliang Zhuan Duolou, and turn left towards Jiangjun Tower.
Duration of Visit and Accommodation: A day trip to Jinshanling is sufficient, but for those wanting to witness sunrise and sunset, staying overnight is recommended. Jinshanling Great Wall Hotel near the central gate offers convenience, and there are two rows of farmhouse inns near the ticket gate providing dining and accommodation options.
Bring Snacks: Consider bringing snacks as the food options on the Great Wall are limited, with water being the primary offering.
Cable Car Information: The cable car service stops at 4:30 PM. It’s recommended to buy a one-way ticket for the ascent at 40 yuan. The descent path is in good condition and is a short distance.
