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Wanping City is located in Fengtai District, Beijing, east of Marco Polo Bridge. Completed in 1640 during the 13th year of the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty, it was originally named Gongbei City and Gongji City. It served as a bridgehead, with city walls similar to those in Beijing. Marco Polo Bridge, located west of Wanping City, served as the only access point from Beijing to the Inner Mongolia Plateau and south to the Central Plains. Due to its unique geographical location, Wanping City became a must-go destination for merchants traveling north and south.
Wanping City is the only intact two-gate fortress in North China. It was the site of the historically famous July 7 Incident. Built for military purposes, Wanping City lacked the typical county town amenities of streets, alleys, markets, or bell and drum towers. Instead, it had only two gates, east and west, each with a urn and tower. The walls were thick and sturdy, primarily for the defense of the capital. Today, the smoke and flames of the July 7 Incident are no longer visible. Instead, a tranquil afternoon sunset shrouds the city, with neatly arranged streets and red flags fluttering throughout.
North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours
free
8:00-17:00
Wanping City, located in the southwest of Beijing, is a historic site that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The Wanping Fortress was built to protect the area from invaders. Today, it is a reminder of Beijing's military history and a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage. The area is also known for its role during the Second Sino-Japanese War, hosting the historic Marco Polo Bridge Incident in 1937.
Wanping City is located in the Fengtai District of Beijing. The closest metro station is the Wanpingcheng Station on Line 9. You can also take a taxi or bus directly to the site, and walking from the nearby metro station is about 15 minutes.
The attraction is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM every day. It is less crowded in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays. Weekends tend to see more visitors, so visiting during off-peak hours is recommended.
The entrance fee is approximately 20 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through various online platforms for advanced booking. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and students.
While it is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, it is recommended to do so, especially during holidays or peak tourist seasons, to avoid long wait times. Booking a few days in advance should be sufficient.
To fully explore Wanping City, including the fortress, city wall, and historical exhibits, expect to spend around 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to take your time exploring the surrounding park and lake, it may take up to 4 hours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are also available for self-guided tours.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the Wanping Fortress, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The city wall also provides excellent photo opportunities. The lake area, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, is ideal for capturing the serene landscape.
Currently, the attraction does not offer special night visits or light shows. However, the site may host special events or exhibitions during certain times of the year, so it is advisable to check for updates before visiting.
Wanping City can get crowded, particularly on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities, including toilets, water fountains, and rest areas, are available. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There are no major food courts or restaurants inside the site, but nearby areas offer more dining options.
The site is accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities, though some areas such as the city wall may require extra effort. Ramps and paths are available for easier access to most sections of the site.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted, as well as credit cards. It’s also a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, especially at the souvenir stalls.
While there are no large restaurants or cafes inside Wanping City, nearby areas like Fengtai District offer a variety of local and international dining options. You can find both casual eateries and mid-range restaurants in the vicinity.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food can also be found in the Fengtai area, where you can find Muslim-friendly restaurants.
There are small souvenir shops inside the site selling items such as miniature models of the fortress, traditional Chinese crafts, and postcards. Typical souvenirs also include historical artifacts and books about the site.
