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The Guyuan Qin Great Wall starts from the Tao River Valley in Lintao County, Gansu Province, and follows the east bank of the Hulu River through Beixiakou from Yanmiao into Xiji County, Ningxia. It follows the Malian River Valley out of Xiji and enters Zhangyi Township in Guyuan County. When it reaches the east of Huangbao, it turns northeast to Baijiawan, then turns east again, passes Yanjiazhuang, and reaches the northwest of Mingzhuang, where it splits into two roads, forming the "inner city" and "outer city".
The inner and outer city ruins form a striking contrast. The inner city's walls are tall, broad, and intact, with a straight, imposing line that exudes grandeur. The approximately 8-kilometer-long inner city ruins are remarkably well-preserved, remaining largely unbroken except for modern roads and a few erosions. A city wall is found every 200 to 230 meters. The outer city is in ruins, largely razed to the ground. The remaining city walls are mostly 2 to 3 meters high, and most of the walls are invisible.
Temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 hour
free
All day
The Qin Great Wall, located in Ningxia, is one of the oldest and most significant sections of the Great Wall of China. It was built during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE) as a defense against northern nomadic tribes. The wall stretches through difficult terrain, demonstrating the military prowess and strategic thinking of the time. This section represents an important piece of Chinese heritage and a testament to the might of early Chinese emperors.
The Qin Great Wall is located in Guyuan, Ningxia, approximately 150 km from Yinchuan. To reach it, take a bus or taxi from Yinchuan, or drive to the site. There is no metro system in this area, so a car or local transport is the most convenient option.
The Qin Great Wall is open daily, with the best times to visit being spring and autumn, when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, while winter may be cold and less comfortable for outdoor activities. It’s recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance. It is recommended to check with local tour operators for pre-booking if you're visiting during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are planning a guided tour. It is advisable to book at least a day in advance if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons.
A visit to the Qin Great Wall typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the areas you wish to explore. If you want to hike longer sections or visit nearby points of interest, you might want to allocate half a day for your visit.
Guided tours are available, and they are typically offered in Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, but it is recommended to book them in advance if you need an English-speaking guide.
Start by visiting the entrance and main wall section, then explore the various watchtowers and fortifications along the way. End your visit by hiking to the highest point for the best views of the surrounding landscape.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Qin Great Wall. However, the clear desert skies make for excellent stargazing if you're staying nearby.
The Qin Great Wall is less crowded compared to more famous sections like the Badaling or Mutianyu sections. It is more tranquil on weekdays and during the off-peak seasons (autumn and spring). Weekends and national holidays may see an increase in visitors.
The terrain around the Qin Great Wall can be challenging with steep sections, making it difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. Children can enjoy the visit, but some sections may require supervision. It is recommended to check with local guides about accessibility options.
Cash is accepted for ticket purchases and other small transactions. Mobile payments and cards may be accepted in larger towns, but it’s better to carry cash when visiting the wall itself.
Nearby restaurants serve simple Chinese and local Ningxia cuisine. You may find small eateries offering lamb dishes and other regional specialties. For more dining options, head to Guyuan or Yinchuan.
Halal food is widely available in Ningxia due to the local Muslim population. Vegetarian options are also available in the area, though vegan options may be limited.
There are basic accommodations available in Guyuan and Yinchuan, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For a more comfortable stay, you can consider hotels in Yinchuan.
Small souvenir shops in the area offer items such as local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Ningxia products. You can also find items representing the culture of the Hui Muslim minority.
After visiting the Qin Great Wall, you can return to Guyuan or head towards Yinchuan by taxi or bus. From Yinchuan, you can easily continue to other destinations in Ningxia or China via trains or flights.
