Hebei

Shanhai Pass, also known as the "First Pass Under Heaven" (Tianxia Di Yi Guan), is a historic fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the eastern end of the Great Wall of China. Built in 1381 during the Ming Dynasty under Emperor Hongwu, it served as the critical eastern gateway between the North China Plain and Manchuria, guarding against invasions and facilitating trade. Strategically positioned where the Bohai Sea meets the Yan Mountains, Shanhai Pass symbolizes China’s military ingenuity and cultural unity. Its imposing walls, watchtowers, and gates reflect centuries of imperial defense and diplomatic history.

Yesanpo, located in Baoding City, Hebei Province, is a breathtaking national geopark renowned for its rugged mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests. Designated a 5A-level tourist attraction by China’s National Tourism Administration, it spans 600 square kilometers and includes three major valleys—Baiquan Valley, Baishui Valley, and Hongshu Valley. Known as the "Little Guilin of Northern China," Yesanpo combines karst landscapes, waterfalls, and ancient villages, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. Its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Western Qing Tombs, located in Yixian County, Baoding City, Hebei Province, are one of China’s most significant imperial mausoleum complexes. Built between 1661 and 1913, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the tombs of four Qing Dynasty emperors, three empresses, and numerous imperial consorts. Covering 800 square kilometers, the site blends Manchu and Han architectural traditions, featuring grand spirit paths, marble thrones, and intricate stone carvings. It offers a poignant glimpse into the Qing Dynasty’s imperial burial customs and the empire’s decline.

The Chengde Mountain Resort, also known as the Rehe Imperial Summer Resort, is China’s largest existing imperial garden and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1703 and 1792 under Emperor Kangxi and Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, it served as the summer retreat for emperors seeking relief from Beijing’s heat. Covering 564 hectares (8 times larger than the Forbidden City), the resort blends natural landscapes with architectural marvels, symbolizing the Qing emperors’ harmony with nature and their multicultural governance. Its palaces, temples, and gardens reflect Tibetan, Mongolian, and Han Chinese influences, making it a microcosm of imperial China’s territorial unity.