What Makes the Jinshanling Great Wall Outstanding
Historical Significance: Originally established in 1368 and extended in 1567, the Jinshanling Great Wall is one of the most typical and complete sections of the Ming Dynasty Wall (1368–1644). It links the Simatai Great Wall to the east with the Gubeikou Great Wall to the west.
Less Crowds: Located in the mountainous area of Chengde, about 130 km northeast of Beijing, it is much less crowded than other sections (such as Badaling, Mutianyu, and Juyongguan) near the city.
Partially Restored Grandeur: To date, the Great Wall has only been partially restored, allowing visitors to see the original appearance of the Wall through its restored sections while also experiencing a sense of history and wild beauty from the natural, crumbling ruins.
Architectural Wonders: Stretching 10.5 km from east to west, the Jinshanling Great Wall features 67 watchtowers, 5 passes, and 3 beacon towers. Most of the towers are built in various shapes, making Jinshanling a wonderful place to explore the architectural art of the Great Wall.
Breathtaking Scenery: Along with its stunning natural scenery, the views from this section are breathtaking. Furthermore, the Jinshanling Great Wall boasts longer opening hours than many other sections, providing visitors with ample opportunities to capture stunning sunrise photographs. As a result, it has become a paradise for photography and hiking.
Iconic Watchtowers of Jinshanling: Architectural Marvels
Architectural art is a typical feature of Jinshanling Great Wall. Among its 67 watchtowers, 5 passes and 3 beacon towers, many sites will catch your eye.
General Tower (Jiangjun Tower, 将军楼): General Tower, first constructed in 1569, was a hollow defense tower of post and panel structure. It has long been a prominent representative of military defense system and served as the command center of Jinshanling Great Wall, that's why it earned its name of “General”. It is also one of the best spots for photographing the sunrise, sunset, and sea of clouds.
Big Jinshan Tower (Dajinshan Tower, 大金山楼): Big Jinshan Tower is a two-storeyed tower seated at the summit of Big Jinshan Mountain. Its two floors are connected by one brick stairway. The first floor enjoys a structure of brick while the second is of brick wood structure. The exquisite and lively eaves, purlin and column demonstrate the supreme skill of ancient people. Moreover, this architecture can prevent fire accident effectively.
Small Jinshan Tower (Xiaojinshan Tower, 小金山楼): Small Jinshan Tower is a two-storyed tower with a structure of brick as well. It features in its boat-shaped internal structure. The west great wall is not directly linked with this tower. If you want to enter the tower and reach to the east wall, you have to pass through a door inside the wall.
Kylin Screen Wall (Qilin Yinbi Wall, 麒麟影壁墙): Kylin Screen Wall is the highlight of architecture of Jinshanling Great Wall located in Small Pot Tower (小虎楼). On this 2.5-meter-long and 6.6-meter-high screen wall, you can admire the elegant relief sculptures of a kylin standing on auspicious clouds.
Five-Window Towers (Wuyan Tower, 五眼楼)：There two Wuyan Towers – West Wuyan Tower and East Wuyan Tower which are famous for the five windows on their north side and east side. They are the perfect places for sightseeing and photography.
General Tower on Jinshanling Great Wall
Viewing Small Jinshan Tower from Big Jinshan Tower
East Five-Window Tower
Majestic Landscapes of Jinshanling: A Photographer's Guide
If you are a photographer looking to capture the majesty of the Great Wall, don't miss Jinshanling. With fewer crowds and breathtaking views year-round, it offers countless opportunities to create stunning images. In addition to the awe-inspiring architecture of the Jinshanling Great Wall and the surrounding mountainous landscape, you can capture incredible shots at sunrise, sunset, and the sea of clouds.
Sunrise Photography: Sunrise is a favorite among many photographers. As the first light illuminates the sky and the sun slowly rises from the surface of the Earth, the silhouette of the Jinshanling Great Wall becomes more defined. The best spots for sunrise include Small Jinshan Tower, Flower Tower (花楼), Eastern Five-Window Tower, Six-Window Tower and General Tower.
Sunset Photography: For many photographers, no travel photo album is complete without the quintessential sunset shot. The colorful evening glow, combined with the surrounding scenery, creates a scene reminiscent of an oil painting. The best spots for sunset include Taochun East Tower (桃春东楼), General Tower, Yaogou Tower (窑沟楼), and Gaojian Tower (高尖楼).
Sea of Clouds Photography: If the weather permits, you can also photograph the enchanting sea of clouds. When the Great Wall is partially hidden and partially visible, it resembles a fairyland. The best spots for this ethereal view are General Tower, Small Jinshan Tower, Western Five-Window Tower, Eastern Five-Window Tower, Six-Window Tower, and Gaojian Tower (高尖楼).
Sunrise over Jinshanling Great Wall
Sunset over Jinshanling Great Wall
Best Time to Visit Jinshanling Great Wall
Generally speaking, the Jinshanling Great Wall can be visited year-round. Each season offers a unique beauty. In spring, the Great Wall is adorned with apricot blossoms, and the Annual Apricot Flower Festival kicks off in mid-April when the flowers are in full bloom. When summer arrives, the plants along the Jinshanling Great Wall are at their most vigorous, allowing you to capture lush green forests. Many visitors flock to Jinshanling in autumn to enjoy the vibrant colors of the foliage, with trees displaying shades of yellow, red, and orange. If you wish to see the stunning snowscapes, winter is the ideal time to visit. Read more about Great Wall Weather | Best Time to Visit Great Wall >>
While each season provides its own views, the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October), particularly in April, May, September, and October, when the weather is most comfortable.
Autumn Views of Jinshanling Great Wall (Shot in October by Our Customer)
Where to Stay Near Jinshanling Great Wall
If you're an early riser eager to catch the breathtaking sunrise or someone who enjoys the calming beauty of a sunset, consider staying overnight at or near the Jinshanling Great Wall. This stunning location offers two main accommodation options to enhance your experience:
Jinshanling Great Wall Hotel
For those seeking a more direct experience, the Jinshanling Great Wall Hotel, located right at the entrance of the scenic area, is an excellent choice. Staying here allows you to easily access the Wall for early morning hikes or late afternoon explorations without the hassle of transportation. This option is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time on the Wall and fully immerse themselves in its majestic surroundings.
Hotels in Gubei Water Town
Situated about a 30-minute drive away, Gubei Water Town is a delightful destination featuring several hotels and hostels. Recommended ones include Gubei Zhiguang Hot Spring Hotel (古北水镇之光温泉酒店), Watertown Hotel (古北水镇大酒店), Biaoju Inn (镖局客栈), Yanmen Inn (雁门客栈), Mulan Inn (木兰客栈), etc.
Jinshanling Great Wall Grand Hotel
Biaoju Inn at Gubei Water Town
How to Travel Jinshanling Great Wall
Jinshanling Great Wall Travel Map ( Click to Enlarge)
According to your interest and strength, there are four different routes to travel Jinshanling Great Wall for you to choose from:
Essential Jinshanling Great Wall Tour (2 hours)
If you have limited time and want to see the highlights, this route is perfect for you. Starting from the Medial Gate of Jinshanling Great Wall, ascend via the walker's path to Zhuanduokou Pass. Then, head east to take in the stunning views of the Great Wall and the surrounding landscape. You'll pass through General Tower and reach Shalingkou Pass, where you can descend via another walker's path.
Great Wall Tour for Photographers (2.5 hours)
This route is ideal for photographers with a short stay on the Wall. Enter the scenic area from the Medial Gate and climb to Zhuanduokou, then head east and hike further to Small Jinshan Tower. You won't miss the various towers with unique features, and you'll have great opportunities to capture stunning photos from both General Tower and Small Jinshan Tower. After your photography session, take the cable car from Small Jinshan Tower back to the Medial Gate.
Jinshanling Great Wall In-depth Tour (4 hours)
For travelers who want to spend more time on the Wall, this extended route is available. Start from the Medial Gate and walk to Zhuanduokou Pass, then enjoy a hike to East Five-window Tower where you will get off the wall and exit from the East Gate. Along the way, you will encounter over 10 towers, including General Tower, Small Jinshan Tower, Big Jinshan Tower, Flower Tower, etc.
Challenging Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking Tour (4 hours)
If you want an in-depth exploration of Jinshanling Great Wall and a physical demanding experience, chose this 4 hours' hiking route. You are suggested to start your hiking from West Gate of the scenic area, and then hike to Taochunkou (桃春口) through the Fitness Trail. Next, hike to Zhuanduokou Pass via West Five-window Tower and get down through walker's path to Medial Gate. If you need to get back to West Gate, you can take a shuttle bus.
Read more about Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking Guide >>
Location & Transportation of Jinshanling Great Wall
Situated in Bakeshiying Town, Luanping County, Chengde City, Hebei Province, Jinshanling Great Wall is about 100 km away from Chengde City and 130 km away from Beijing City. Usually, travelers prefer a Jinshanling Tour from Beijing City.
- Adjacent to Gubeikou Great Wall and Simatai Great Wall
- 140 km away from Beijing Capital Airport
- 150 km away from Beijing West Railway Station and Beijing South Great Wall
- 15 4km away from Beijing City Center (Tiananmen Square)
Public Transfer in the Scenic Area
There are accessible shuttle buses and cable cars to help you avoid trek up to the wall.
Shuttle Bus: All cars and buses will stop in the Parking Lot of Jinshanling Great Wall Scenic Area. Then travelers can take a 10 minutes' free shuttle bus to the check gate.
Cable Car: It is available to take a cable car to transfer between the Middle Check Gate and Zhuanduokou Pass which takes CNY 40 for a single trip and CNY 60 for around trip. Or you need to climb about 40 minutes. Read more about Jinshanling Cable Car Guide >>
How to Get to Jinshanling Great Wall
It's a bit complicate to reach Jinshanling Great Wall via public transport. There is a direct tourist bus departing from Beijing Dongzhimen Wai Bus Station in the morning to Jinshanling Great Wall in the peak season (mid-March ~ mid-November) usually. In the low season, you need to transfer several times to reach Jinshanling. Read more about How to Get to Jinshanling Great Wall >>
Travel with China Discovery
If you want to get rid of hustle of public transportation and troublesome navigation, you can book a private tour package which covers sightseeing, dining and transfer from us. Our local tour guide and driver will escort you to Mutianyu Great Wall with speed and convenience, and take care of all the details. You just need to focus on sightseeing.
Jinshanling Great Wall Transportation Map
Jinshanling Cable Car
Jinshanling Great Wall Transportation Map
Tips for Jinshanling Great Wall Travel
1. Check the Weather Before You Go
The Jinshanling Great Wall may close during the rainy season (mostly summer) and snowy season (winter), as well as during strong winds. The unrestored sections lack side walls, making them potentially dangerous in adverse weather conditions.
2. Dress Properly
If hiking Jinshanling in winter, wear warm layers and a puffy coat to shield against chilly winds at higher elevations. In summer, be sure to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for all seasons.
3. Choose A Suitable Route
The recurring uphill and downhill stretches can make hiking strenuous. It's advisable to select a route that matches the fitness levels of your entire group, especially if not everyone is in top shape.
4. Bring Food and Water
It's helpful to pack a small bag with snacks and plenty of water for your hike. While vendors at the towers sell food and drinks during peak season, prices can be quite high.
5. Bring a Torch for Sunrise and Sunset
The cable car operates during the day, so it's nearly impossible to take it for sunrise ascents or sunset descents. Be sure to bring a torch for your walk in the dark if you're planning to catch these stunning views.
6. Cable Car May Be Temporarily Closed
The cable car may be closed for temporary maintenance during certain periods, usually in winter (late November to March). It is advisable to check official notices in advance. Additionally, the cable car will be closed in bad weather conditions, such as strong winds, heavy snow, or rain.
How to Plan A Jinshanling Great Wall Tour
A typical Jinshanling tour lasts about half a day, whether you're starting from Beijing or Chengde. In addition to the Great Wall, you can explore the stunning gateway cities and their charming surroundings.
2 Days Jinshanling Tour with Simatai and Gubei Water Town
For a more comprehensive experience, consider combining your Jinshanling Great Wall visit with Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town. Simatai is renowned for its breathtaking views and is accessible both day and night. After touring Jinshanling, you can drive approximately 30 minutes to Gubei Water Town. As night falls, head to Simatai to enjoy the illuminated wall. The panoramic views of the town are particularly stunning. After a restful night in Gubei Water Town, take a leisurely half-day to explore before you depart.
☛ 2 Days Jinshanling and Simatai Great Wall Scenic Hiking
☛ 2 Days Gubei Water Town & Simatai Night Great Wall Tour with Jinshanling
Please Note: Tickets for Simatai are available in two types: night tickets for evening views and day tickets for a more hiking-focused experience. Choose according to your preference.
4 ~ 5 Days Beijing to Jinshanling Tour
Beijing is the most popular starting point for visiting the Great Wall of China, including the Jinshanling section. We recommend spending at least two full days exploring Beijing's highlights, such as the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and the city's vibrant hutongs, along with modern attractions like the Bird's Nest and Water Cube. Afterward, dedicate a day to visit Jinshanling, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from the city.
☛ 4 Days Classic Beijing Tour with Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking
☛ 4 Days Beijing Essence Tour with Simatai Night Sightseeing and Jinshanling Hiking
3 ~ 4 Days Jinshanling Tour from Chengde
Travelers can also combine your Jinshanling Great Wall with a Chengde tour, a city rich in Qing Dynasty history. Spend a day exploring Chengde's highlights, including the Chengde Mountain Resort, Putuo Zongcheng Temple, and Puning Temple. Then, allocate another day for the Jinshanling Great Wall. If you're a photography enthusiast, consider spending an additional day capturing the stunning landscapes of Bashang Grassland. It is also recommended to travel Beijing, Chengde and Jinshanling Great Wall in one go.
☛ 3 Days Chengde Highlights Tour including Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking
☛ 4 Days Bashang Grassland Unparalleled Landscape Tour
☛ 5 Days Beijing Highlights Tour with Sidetrip to Chengde
Recommended Chengde Tours
Top 3 Chengde tours chosen by most customers to explore Chengde in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.
4 Days Beijing Essence Tour with Simatai Great Wall Night Sightseeing
Beijing / Jinshanling / Simatai / Gubeikou Water Town / Beijing
5 Days Beijing Highlights Tour with Sidetrip to Chengde
Beijing / Chengde / Beijing
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