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The Dawukou Great Wall is perfect for hiking and exploring ancient historical structures. Visitors can enjoy walking along the wall, experiencing the panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape, and taking photos of the ruins. It’s also a great spot for history enthusiasts to learn about the significance of the Great Wall in the region.
Also known as the Border Defense North Gate Wall, this section of the Great Wall was built in 1531 AD. After investigation by Minister of War Wang Qiong, who requested approval from the imperial court, construction was supervised by Assistant Minister Qi Zhiluan. The wall stretches approximately 50 li from Zaoergou in the Helan Mountains in the west to the banks of the Yellow River in the east. Remains still exist near present-day Dawukou Village and along the Mingshui Lake Farm east to the railway line. Other areas have been converted into farmland and roads and no longer exist.
The beacon tower of the Ming Great Wall at Dawukou is a roughly square castle with a side length of two to three hundred meters. There is also a small urn city on the south side, and the wall is close to the north and winds eastward. The Great Wall has been severely damaged due to the wind and rain for a long time.
Temperate continental climate, best to travel from January to March
1 hour
free
All day
The Dawukou Great Wall is a lesser-known part of the Great Wall, located in Ningxia's Shizuishan region. It is a significant historical site, built during the Ming Dynasty as a defensive line against Mongol invasions. The wall stands as a testament to ancient Chinese military engineering and plays a vital role in the region’s cultural history.
The Dawukou Great Wall is located in the Dawukou District, in Shizuishan, Ningxia. It is accessible by taxi or private car from Shizuishan. Public transportation options are limited, but visitors can reach the site through local taxis or organized tours.
The Dawukou Great Wall is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is cooler and ideal for hiking. Summer months can be hot, and winter months might have heavy snow, which can affect accessibility.
There is typically no entrance fee for visiting the Dawukou Great Wall. However, fees may apply for guided tours or specific activities. Tickets for activities or tours can usually be bought on-site or through local travel agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are planning to join a guided tour. If booking a tour, it’s recommended to reserve at least a few days in advance during peak tourist seasons.
Visitors typically need 2 to 3 hours to explore the Dawukou Great Wall, depending on how much time they spend hiking and taking photographs. If you plan to explore the surrounding area as well, an additional hour or two may be needed.
The main highlight is the wall itself, which stretches across the rugged landscape. The best areas for photography are the watchtowers and the panoramic views from the higher sections of the wall. The surrounding desert and mountain views also provide stunning backdrops.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. These tours typically include historical information about the Great Wall and its significance. Audio guides are not commonly available, but some tours may offer printed materials in multiple languages.
The best viewpoints are from the highest points along the wall, where you can get a panoramic view of the desert and surrounding mountains. The watchtowers also provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the lighting is ideal.
Start your visit by walking along the well-preserved sections of the wall. Climb up to the watchtowers for the best views. Afterward, explore the less-preserved sections of the wall for a more rugged experience. Conclude your visit by exploring the base area for an overview of the wall’s history and purpose.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at the Dawukou Great Wall. However, it is a good spot for stargazing at night due to its remote location and minimal light pollution.
The Dawukou Great Wall is generally not very crowded, especially when compared to more famous sections of the Great Wall. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons (autumn and spring).
Basic facilities are available at the entrance, including toilets and rest areas. There are no food stalls or restaurants on-site, so it is advisable to bring water and snacks with you. Shops are also limited, but you can find souvenirs in nearby towns.
The attraction is not fully accessible for disabled visitors, as parts of the wall require walking on uneven terrain and climbing. However, it is suitable for children and the elderly who are in good physical condition. Some sections may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Cash is often preferred for smaller transactions at the site. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted in nearby towns, but you may want to bring cash if visiting the wall itself.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at the Dawukou Great Wall. However, you can find dining options in nearby towns like Shizuishan, where you can enjoy local Chinese cuisine, including Ningxia specialties.
Vegetarian and halal options are available in nearby Shizuishan. The area is home to a Muslim population, so halal food is widely available. Vegetarian meals are also common in local eateries.
There are no hotels directly at the Dawukou Great Wall, but nearby Shizuishan offers a range of accommodations from budget hotels to mid-range options. You can also find guesthouses for a more authentic experience.
Nearby attractions include the Tengger Desert and the local areas of Shizuishan. You can also visit the Zhongwei City area, home to more ancient architectural sites and the famous Gaomiao Temple.
There are limited souvenir shops in the area, but you can find some basic local handicrafts and souvenirs in Shizuishan, including traditional Chinese goods like silk scarves, pottery, and small historical artifacts.
After visiting the Dawukou Great Wall, you can return to Shizuishan by taxi or private car. From Shizuishan, you can catch buses or trains to other parts of Ningxia or neighboring provinces.
