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Jinshanling Great Wall
| Opening Hours | April to October: 6:00 – 18:00 November to March: 6:00 – 17:30 |
|---|---|
| Admission Fee | April to October: CNY 65 November to March: CNY 55 Free for children under 1.2 meters (3.9 feet). |
Jinshanling is recognized as one of the most photogenic and least crowded sections of the Great Wall. Built on the majestic Greater and Lesser Jinshan (“Gold Mountain”) ranges, it offers a tranquil escape into a breathtaking vista of architectural grandeur, presenting an unmatched feast for the eyes and is indeed a paradise for photographers.
Where is Jinshanling Great Wall ?
Jinshanling Great Wall is in a mountainous area of Luanping County, Chengde, Hebei Province, about 2.5 hours’ drive from Beijing. Due to its remote distance from Beijing, it tends to be less crowded than closer sections like Badaling and Mutianyu, making it a great choice for those seeking a more tranquil and authentic Great Wall experience.
Jinshanling History and Facts
Jinshanling Great Wall was constructed under the direction of general Xu Da in 1368 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), it was further extended and renovated between 1567 and 1570 under the supervision of General Qi Jiguang. The decision to build this part of the wall was part of a larger military strategy to strengthen northern defenses against the Mongols. The name Jinshanling translates to “Gold Mountain Ridge,” reflecting its strategic position overlooking fertile and prosperous lands.
Jinshanling Great Wall with a total length of 10.5 kilometers (6.5 miles), a height of 5 meters (16 feet) to 8 meters (26 feet), and an altitude of 700 meters (2,297 feet) above sea level. It has 67 watchtowers, 3 beacon towers, and 5 passes.
Recommended Jinshanling Great Wall Hiking Routes
Route 1:
Start from Zhuanduokou Pass, via General Tower, to Shalingkou Pass. The distance is about 3km (2 miles) and it takes about 1.5 hours to finish the journey. Afterwards, you can go down the mountain from Shalingkou Pass.
Route 2:
Start from Zhuanduokou Pass, via General Tower and Shalingkou Pass, to Small Jinshan Tower. The distance is about 4 km (2.5 miles), and it takes about 2 hours to complete the hiking.
Route 3:
Start from Zhuanduokou Pass, via General Tower, Shalingkou Pass, Small and Big Jinshan Towers to Houchuankou Pass. The whole journey is about 5 km (3 miles), and it takes hikers around 3 hours to finish it. After the visit, you may go down the mountain from Jinshan Horse Track.
Route 4:
Start from Shalingkou Pass, and go by Small and Big Jinshan Tower, Houchuankou Pass, Eastern Five-window Tower, bricks with characters, and Kylin Screen Wall. Finally, you may go down the mountain and exit through the east gate. The route is about 7km (4 miles), and it takes about 4 hours to complete.
