Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall
The Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall, a UNESCO-listed section of China’s Ming Dynasty Great Wall, is the only segment in Beijing where ancient fortifications meet aquatic splendor. Built in 1404 under Emperor Yongle, it merged military defense with water management, featuring a unique design where the wall submerges into and emerges from Yanqi Lake. This "floating" marvel, surrounded by chestnut forests and rugged mountains, offers a serene escape from Beijing’s hustle.
Historical Overview
Constructed in 1404, the Huanghuacheng section was pivotal for defending the Ming capital and managing the Huai River Basin’s irrigation. Its dual role as a fortress and dam made it strategic, with soldiers patrolling both land and water. The wall faced battles against Mongol invaders and natural erosion, leading to partial collapses. In the 1970s, a hydroelectric dam submerged parts of the wall, creating the breathtaking sight of water and city intersections that we see today. After decades of preservation, it opened to the public in 2003, becoming a symbol of harmonious coexistence between history and nature.
Structural Layout
The site is divided into three key zones:
Aquatic Section: A 1.2km stretch where the wall dips into Yanqi Lake, forming picturesque "water gates."
Mountainous Trails: Steep paths leading to restored watchtowers offering panoramic lake views.
Ancient Chestnut Grove: A 600-year-old forest with over 1,000 Ming-era chestnut trees, some designated "living cultural relics."
Major Attractions
Submerged Wall: Witness the Great Wall emerging from turquoise waters, a photographer’s dream.
Phoenix Tower: A restored watchtower with exhibits on Ming military architecture.
Chestnut King: A 700-year-old tree with a 12-meter trunk circumference, revered as a local deity.
Dam Overlook: A vantage point above the reservoir, blending engineering marvels with natural beauty.
Glass Skywalk: A 200m-long platform suspended 70m above the valley for adrenaline-fueled selfies.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Entrance → Submerged Wall → Phoenix Tower → Ancient Chestnut Grove → Dam Overlook → Exit.
Highlights: Iconic water-great wall views, Ming history, and forest bathing.
- Adventure Route (4–5 hours):
Add the Glass Skywalk and a 1.5km trek to the 14th-century Shuanglongqi Fortress.
Highlights: Thrills, fortress ruins, and sunset vistas.
- Photography Route (Full Day):
Capture dawn mist over the lake, midday forest canopy, and dusk reflections. Include a picnic at Beachside Pavilion.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via official WeChat mini-program “Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall” (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance, but arrive early to avoid queues.
Prices:
Peak Season (April–October): ¥65 (adults), ¥35 (students/seniors).
Off-Season (November–March): ¥45 (adults), ¥25 (students/seniors).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Car: 1.5-hour drive from Beijing via G6/G7 highways. Parking: ¥10/day.
By Bus: Take H21 or H22 from Dongzhimen Station to Huanghuacheng Stop (2.5 hours).
By Tour: Group tours depart daily from Qianmen for ¥150–200/person (includes transport + guide).
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–3 PM; visit early (8 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).
Crowds: Weekdays are quieter; weekends attract hikers and families.
Weather: Spring (April–May) for chestnut blossoms; autumn (October) for golden foliage.
Essentials: Wear waterproof shoes (paths get muddy), pack swimwear (optional lake dip), and carry cash for rural vendors.
Pro Tip: Combine with a stay at nearby Commune by the Great Wall for a luxury-history fusion experience.
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What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
