ShanHaiGuan, located in QinHuangDao City, HeBei Province, is a renowned historical site known as the "First Pass Under Heaven." It is one of the most well-preserved and strategically important passes of the Great Wall of China, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into China's ancient military history and stunning coastal scenery.
Getting There
By Air: The nearest airport is QinHuangDao Beidaihe Airport (BPE), located about 20 kilometers from ShanHaiGuan. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to ShanHaiGuan.
By Train: ShanHaiGuan Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like BeiJing, TianJin, and Shenyang. High-speed trains make it convenient to reach ShanHaiGuan from these cities.
By Bus: Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities, including QinHuangDao and TianJin. The main bus station in ShanHaiGuan is ShanHaiGuan Long-Distance Bus Station.
Getting Around
Walking: The historic area of ShanHaiGuan is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient architecture and fortifications.
Biking: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and nearby attractions at your own pace.
Local Transport: Taxis and local buses are available for traveling to and from different parts of ShanHaiGuan and QinHuangDao.
Main Attractions
First Pass Under Heaven (Zhenyuan Tower)
This iconic gate is the easternmost point of the Great Wall and marks the starting point of the ancient defense line. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Great Wall stretching towards the mountains and the sea.
Old Dragon's Head (Laolongtou)
Located where the Great Wall meets the Bohai Sea, the Old Dragon's Head is a dramatic and picturesque site. The fortifications extend into the sea, resembling a dragon drinking water. It's a unique and breathtaking part of the Great Wall.
ShanHaiGuan Great Wall Museum
The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history, construction, and significance of the Great Wall. Exhibits include artifacts, models, and interactive displays that bring the history of this monumental structure to life.
Jiumenkou Great Wall
This section of the Great Wall is unique for its series of nine gates and the river that flows beneath it. The Jiumenkou Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating look at ancient military engineering.
Wang Family Courtyard
This well-preserved traditional courtyard residence offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy family during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The courtyard is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and traditional furnishings.
Local Cuisine
ShanHaiGuan's cuisine is influenced by its coastal location and northern Chinese culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes:
Seafood: Fresh seafood from the Bohai Sea, including fish, shrimp, and crab, is a highlight of local dining.
QinHuangDao Dumplings: These dumplings are known for their thin skins and generous fillings, often served with a dipping sauce.
Jiaozi (Dumplings): A variety of steamed or boiled dumplings filled with meat, vegetables, or seafood.
Local Snacks: Try street food such as fried dough twists, roasted sweet potatoes, and various grilled skewers.
Shopping
Local Handicrafts: ShanHaiGuan is known for its traditional handicrafts, including paper-cutting, clay figurines, and embroidery. These items make for unique souvenirs.
Antique Markets: Explore local antique markets for historical artifacts, vintage items, and collectibles.
Seafood Markets: Purchase fresh or dried seafood to take home or enjoy while you're in the area.
Accommodation
Luxury Hotels: For a high-end stay, consider hotels like the Shangri-La Hotel QinHuangDao or the Sheraton QinHuangDao Beidaihe Hotel, both offering excellent amenities and service.
Mid-Range Hotels: Options such as the Best Western Junyu Grand Hotel and QinHuangDao Grand Hotel provide comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices.
Budget Hotels: For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels like the ShanHaiGuan Youth Hostel offer affordable and convenient lodging.
Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit ShanHaiGuan are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures. An umbrella or raincoat is useful during the rainy season.
Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and be mindful of local etiquette, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites.
Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases or using a translation app can be very helpful.
Plan Your Visit: ShanHaiGuan is best explored at a leisurely pace. Take your time to wander through the historical sites, visit local shops, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Conclusion
ShanHaiGuan, with its rich history, strategic importance, and stunning coastal scenery, offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient fortifications, savoring fresh seafood, or strolling along the Great Wall, ShanHaiGuan provides an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your trip to this fascinating destination in HeBei Province.
Due to its height this part of the Great Wall of China was single sided and narrow. Through the centuries of wind and rain it has become greatly eroded. Although that adds to the charm, it is a very dangerous hike that is NOT to be experienced first hand, but rather by this film. Enjoy the thrill from your armchair, only. And we mean that.
The JinShanLing section of the Great Wall of China is one of the most well-preserved and scenic parts of the wall, located in the mountainous area of Luanping County, Hebei Province, about 130 kilometers northeast of Beijing. This section offers stunning views, rich historical significance, and a less crowded experience compared to other sections. This guide will help you explore the beauty and history of JinShanLing, including must-see highlights, hiking tips, and practical travel information.
Must-See Highlights
General Tower (将军楼)
The General Tower is one of the most iconic watchtowers on the JinShanLing section of the Great Wall. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the winding wall. This tower was used historically for military command and observation.
Wangjing Tower (望京楼)
Wangjing Tower, also known as the Watching Beijing Tower, is named for its view of Beijing on clear days. This tower is a popular spot for photography and offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.
Eastern Five-Window Tower (东五眼楼)
The Eastern Five-Window Tower is unique for its five windows on each side, providing excellent vantage points for surveillance in ancient times. This tower is a testament to the strategic architectural design of the Great Wall.
Western Five-Window Tower (西五眼楼)
The Western Five-Window Tower, similar to its eastern counterpart, also features five windows on each side. It offers spectacular views and is a great spot for taking in the expansive landscape of the JinShanLing section.
Big and Small Jinshan Towers (大小金山楼)
The Big and Small Jinshan Towers are two prominent towers named after their different sizes. These towers are significant historical landmarks and provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the defensive mechanisms of the Great Wall.
Hiking Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit JinShanLing is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the scenery is stunning.
Hiking Difficulty: The JinShanLing section offers a moderately challenging hike with steep steps and uneven terrain. Suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.
What to Wear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, breathable clothing, and a hat. Bring layers as the weather can change quickly.
What to Bring: Carry plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. A camera is also recommended for capturing the beautiful scenery.
Hiking Route: A popular hiking route is from JinShanLing to Simatai West, which takes about 3-4 hours and covers some of the most picturesque sections of the wall.
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour for a more informative experience. Guides can provide historical context and ensure you don't miss any key sights.
Practical Travel Information
Getting There: JinShanLing is accessible by bus, car, or private tour from Beijing. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours by car. Buses are available from Beijing's Wangjing West Station.
Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for JinShanLing varies depending on the season. Check the official website or contact local tourism offices for up-to-date pricing.
Opening Hours: JinShanLing is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Plan to arrive early to make the most of your visit and avoid crowds.
Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses and hotels near JinShanLing for those who wish to stay overnight. Beijing offers a wider range of accommodation options if you prefer to stay in the city.
Health and Safety: Ensure you are in good health before attempting the hike, as the terrain can be demanding. Stay on designated paths to avoid accidents and respect local regulations and signs.
Local Services: Facilities such as restrooms and small shops are available at the entrance and at certain points along the wall. However, it's advisable to bring your own supplies for convenience.
Conclusion
The JinShanLing section of the Great Wall of China offers a unique and less crowded experience compared to other parts of the wall. Its well-preserved structures, stunning scenery, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Use this guide to plan your visit and enjoy the incredible beauty and historical significance of JinShanLing. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or an avid hiker, JinShanLing promises an unforgettable adventure.
This itinerary takes you on a comprehensive journey along the Great Wall of China, starting from the western end in Jiayuguan and ending at the eastern end in Qinhuangdao.
Week 1: Western End - Jiayuguan and Dunhuang
Begin your journey at the western end of the Great Wall in Jiayuguan, Gansu Province. ... more ...
At the foot of the awesome SiMaTai section of the Great Wall of China. A family trip in autumn.
With TimGloAdventures ...
Bonus films - JinShanLing Great Wall ...
The Forbidden City, JingShan Park and MuTianYu Great Wall ...
A great film of the Great Wall north of Beijing, including 'wild wall', accompanied by great music (踏古 (Ta Gu) by Lin Hai, 'Walking into Ancientry', with Chinese lute (pipa)).
We [mum, dad - videographer - and son and daughter, from Singapore] hiked 3 sections of the Great Wall in winter, without any guides after studying blogs and posts by fellow hikers.
All these sections are different. From the unrestored GuBeiKou Great Wall where we were the only people around, to the wonderful JinShanLing, where the climb is steep and every direction gives you good photo opportunities, to the restored MuTianYu where we hiked in heavy snowfall.
We stayed at local farmhouses on both nights, dined with the locals and hitched rides to nearby bath-houses. Temperature ranged from -5 deg C (day) to -12 deg C (night). Winter daybreak is at 7am and the sky becomes dark by 5pm so one has only 10 hours of daylight, so plan your travelling and hiking schedules carefully.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience was captured on video and we would like to share it with you. The feelings just can't be described - you need to experience it first hand.
Take only memories, leave only footprints and kindness ...
A wonderful animation combining traditional Chinese painting and dance - don't miss it !
踏古-林海
作曲：林海
视频作者：中国传媒大学动画学院
BaDaLing railway station is the deepest High-speed railway station in the world, 102 meters below the ground.
With Walk For You ...
The Temple of Heaven, TianTan, in central BeiJing ...
High speed rail in China; now 38,000 kilometers ...
With Walk East - the Great Wall of China.
JiaYu Pass is not only the western starting point of the Ming Great Wall, but also a vital pass on the ancient Silk Road. It's the joining place of the cultures of the Silk Road ...
An awesome video - don't miss it !
With ClaireTrips ...
Bonus films - ChenJiaPu 陈家沟 'wild' Great Wall ...
Hiking the 'wild wall' is technically illegal for conservation reasons, and safety concerns. However, permits are available. It is recommended to go with a guide; 'dangerous' is not hype in places like JianKou - be careful - don't go alone, take your time, have a mobile and water with you, etc.
These amazing films capture the beauty of nature and city ...
Don't miss it !
The best videographers. The best music. Turn up the volume; relax; let's go ...
Hong Kong
The Great Wall (JinShanLing / SiMaTai, close to Beijing)
QingHai province
JiuZhaiGou and HuangLong, SiChuan province
Crescent Moon Spring / Lake, 6 km from DunHuang, GanSu province, north west China
Guilin and YangShuo, GuangXi province
The Tibetan Plateau, far south west China
HuiZhou, GuangDong province, south east China
TianShan Mountain area, XinJiang province, far west China
MoGao Grotto, YuMenGuan, YangGuan, JiaYuGuan, YaDan, DanXia; all in GanSu province
Tian Tan Giant Buddha, Hong Kong
GuangZhou, provincial capital of GuangDong and close to Hong Kong
Various places in China
BaDaLing and MuTianYu Great Wall (about 1+ hours from BeiJing city center) ...
JinShanLing and SiMaTai Great Wall (about 2+ hours from BeiJing) ...
Bonus films -
Plus, Cindy Zhang shows us a hike along the rugged JianKou section of the Great Wall (it is not far from MuTianYu) ...
Bonus films - how to get to JinShanLing Great Wall, one of the most beautiful sections near BeiJing (well, about 3 hours away) by bus (cheaper than a coach tour) ...
If you have 3 or 4 days spare, also check out ChengDe Imperial Summer Resort, a bit further in the same direction from BeiJing.
JuYong Pass is an interesting section of the Great Wall, close to Beijing (slightly nearer than BaDaLing along the same valley), has a steep climb on the west side.
A liitle jet-lagged, our travelers spend a day in Beijing before setting off for other parts of China.
Places visited : Tian'AnMen Square, the Forbidden City (Palace Museum) plus JingShan and BeiHai parks, all within easy walking distance of each other. Then it is on to DeShengMen to take the bus to BaDaLing Great Wall of China (one can also take a train from Beijing North railway station, near XiZhiMen).
Welcome to the blue sky city ...
JinShanLing to SiMaTai, north east of Beijing city.
The last film shows various sections of the Great Wall as seen from a 'toy' helicopter.
If you can, please support this site with a donation - thank you !
The first time I went to JuYong Pass was a coach trip and we had only an hour at this stop on the tour. Yet I was determined to get to the top and return to the coach on time. Result - absolute exhaustion, but I did manage to get some photos along the way :)
In this video, a lot of the early part of the climb is skipped, but I still think you will get the picture.
JuYongGuan is the inner pass of BaDaLing Great Wall.
A great movie moment, superb filming ...
The first scene is at ShanHaiGuan, where the Great Wall meets the East China Sea. The other scenes are from various places north of Beijing, including JinShanLing and SiMaTai.
A trip to the wild Great Wall ...
Love the ones you're with. Your partner, family, neighbours, the people you pass on the street. As this blue and green planet whizzes through space, we can all share the love with those around us.
The goal of all sane people is to create a better world for our children ...
The Forbidden City (Palace Museum), the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, the Great Wall (at Badaling), Beihai Park, the Botanical Garden, JingShan Park, the Olympic Park, Qianmen
Welcome to the blue-sky city ...
