Shanhai Pass (山海关, Shanghaiguan), also known as the First Pass under Heaven, is situated in the northeastern part of Qinhuangdao City, China. The construction of the pass began in 1381 under the orders of Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, making it a crucial military stronghold controlling the passage between Northeast and North China. Its strategic location, nestled against the Yanshan Mountains to the north and overlooking the Bohai Sea to the east, earned it the name Shanhai Pass (Shan in Chinese means mountain, while Hai means sea).
The phrase “关内关外 (inside the pass, outside the pass)” used by Chinese commonly referred to the distinction between areas within and beyond Shanhai Pass, highlighting its significance as a dividing line. Shanhai Pass played a pivotal role in the eastern section of the Ming Great Wall, corresponding to the western Jiayu Pass at the other end and earning the title of “the First Pass under Heaven.” The plaque at the pass was inscribed by Xiao Xian, a renowned calligrapher of the Ming Dynasty.
With a circumference of approximately 4 kilometers, Shanhai Pass is intricately connected to the Great Wall, featuring a height of 14 meters and a thickness of 7 meters. The pass is fortified with four main gates and various defensive structures. The preserved Ming-era city walls and original streets contribute to the city’s elegant and ancient charm. The most striking feature is the Zhenyuan Tower, also known as the “First Pass Tower,” located at the eastern gate of the pass. This tower stands tall above the Great Wall, providing a commanding view of Shanhai Pass and the surrounding landscape when ascended. The pass’s historical and architectural significance, coupled with its breathtaking scenery, makes Shanhai Pass a cultural and historical gem.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Shanghai Pass
- Vlog about Shanhai Pass
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Facts about Shanhai Pass
- Attractions near Shanhai Pass
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0335-5051106 0086-0335-5136177 |
Location and Transportation
Shanhai Pass is situated in the northeastern part of China, specifically in the province of Hebei. It is located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of the city of Qinhuangdao, which is a major seaport in the region.
The pass is strategically positioned at the point where the Great Wall of China meets the Bohai Sea, making it a crucial defensive point in ancient times. This location allowed for effective control of both land and sea routes, guarding against potential invasions from the north and east.
The most convenient way to get to the Shanhai Pass is by train. After getting out of the Shanhaiguan Train Station (山海关火车站), you will see the pass right in front of you.
Highlights of Shanghai Pass
Great Wall Connection
As the eastern end of the Great Wall of China, Shanhai Pass symbolizes the culmination of centuries of defensive construction. The well-preserved walls, watchtowers, and fortifications provide an awe-inspiring glimpse into the architectural brilliance of ancient China’s defense systems. Visitors can explore the ancient ramparts, walk along the Wall’s edge, and appreciate breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a memorable and essential experience for those seeking to witness the grandeur and strategic significance of the Great Wall at its easternmost point.
First Pass Under Heaven
Shanhai Pass holds the esteemed title of “First Pass Under Heaven,” a symbolic term from ancient China denoting its paramount strategic importance. As the eastern terminus of the Great Wall, it marked the boundary between the civilized Chinese heartland and the outside world. This significant pass served as the initial line of defense against potential invaders from the north and protected the realm from foreign threats. The recognition of Shanhai Pass as the “First Pass Under Heaven” acknowledges its historical prominence as a mighty fortress and a testament to China’s ingenuity in fortification, embodying the nation’s determination to safeguard its borders and civilization.
Coastal Beauty
Nestled at the confluence of the Great Wall and the Bohai Sea, the pass offers a breathtaking panorama where ancient architectural splendor meets the vastness of the sea. The juxtaposition of the rugged, well-preserved walls against the serene coastal waters creates a picturesque scene, perfect for mesmerizing sunsets and soothing sea breezes. Visitors can marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and human engineering, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance while exploring the historical significance of this coastal gem.
Vlog about Shanhai Pass
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Food at the Scenic Area: The snacks sold on the snack street inside the scenic area are expensive and not tasty. It is recommended to explore the snack options along the road to the Bell Tower after visiting the Shanhai Pass.
City Wall Entrance Fee: Some visitors feel the ticket may not be worth it. The view outside the wall is not particularly scenic, and the ancient city inside has a commercial atmosphere. Consider just taking photos from the outside.
Parking Area Warnings: Be cautious of individuals in the parking area claiming they can offer cheaper entry. It is advised not to trust or listen to such claims.
Transportation Inside Shanhai Pass: Within the Shanhai Pass, there are small electric tricycles available for a fee. However, it is considered not cost-effective (50 RMB for 30 minutes), and their usage is limited to within the Shanhai Pass area.
In winter, the old town of Shanhaiguan has noticeably fewer people. Walking through the streets of the old town, despite the colder weather, is actually quite pleasant.
Shanhai Pass: The scenic area sells a combined ticket for 50 yuan. I took pictures at the “First Pass Under Heaven” (天下第一关) and visited the Bell Tower. The overall layout of the area seems quite systematic and it must have been glorious in the past. Currently, it appears rather lifeless during the off-season with few visitors, although the public facilities seem to be in good condition; however, some of the public restrooms have long been out of service.
Laolongtou: This is the starting point of the Great Wall of China and the only section that extends into the sea. The scenic area leads directly to the seaside, which is quite spectacular. Just like in Shanhaiguan, it was also less crowded. The view of the sea is wide and open. I wasn’t interested in Bagua Town (八卦镇) or Shicheng (石城), so I didn’t go there.
The scenery at Shanhaiguan during the off-peak season is absolutely stunning!
We visited at night. There was a band that performed quite well. There was also a performance on the river, which was decent, but the final light show was rather ordinary.
Today, there are a lot of people at Shanhai Pass, but the weather is quite nice. The tower is truly impressive.
The night activities in Shanhai Pass are rich and colorful. It is recommended to go to the snack street in advance to eat something and reserve enough time to watch the performances.
The Shanhaiguan Scenic Area is not very big. I thought I had to stay until 8:30 to see the light show, but to my surprise, there was acrobatic show at 7 o’clock, a band performance at 7:30, and a performance by the lake between 7:50 and 8:20. The light show was from 8:30 to 9 o’clock. A perfect ending!
Early in the morning, I took the green train and arrived at Shanhaiguan Station at 9 am. First, I visited Laolongtou (Old Dragon’s Head), which is about 4 kilometers away from the train station. Avoid taking taxis soliciting passengers outside the high-speed rail station as they may charge 37 yuan, while the actual fare is only 15 yuan. It is suggested to wear slippers or sandals when visiting Laolongtou because it is by the seaside, and you’ll need them for playing in the water. I got my pants soaked up to the knees by the seawater during the visit. Next, I went to Shanhaiguan, which is connected to the ancient city. Shanhaiguan is one of the gates of the ancient city. It was not as impressive as expected, even a bit disappointing. The “First Pass Under Heaven” seemed too small and not magnificent enough. The attractions inside the ancient city… Read more »
🚌 Transport within tourist attractions:
1. There is a free shuttle bus from Laolongtou Scenic Area to the First Pass Under Heaven, but you need to purchase a joint ticket for the attractions in order to ride for free.
Departure times from the First Pass: 9:00, 11:00, 14:00
Departure times from Laolongtou: 10:00, 12:00, 15:00
2. Inside the Shanhaiguan Ancient City Scenic Area, the attractions are quite spread out. If you prefer not to walk, you can take a sightseeing bus for 10 yuan per person, allowing one ride at each stop.
Sightseeing bus route: Jingbianlou – Yiguankou – Square West Gate – Bell and Drum Tower – Ying’en Gate – South Gate – Wangjia Courtyard – Jingbianlou”
Exciting events at the Shanhaiguan (山海关) Scenic Area
– Welcoming Ceremony
Location: Tianxia First Pass Square
Time: 9:30/11:00/14:00/15:30
– Wuqiao Acrobatics
Location: Guan City Storytelling Theatre
Time: 11:30-12:30 (Mon-Fri), 11:30-12:30/17:30-18:00/18:30-19:00/20:00-20:30 (Sat-Sun)
– Light Show
Location: Tianxia First Pass Square
Time: 20:30