Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall

Introducing Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall

The Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall, located in Jiuduhe Town, Huairou District, Beijing, was built during the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty. Winding along a mountain ridge and surrounding the shores of Haoming Lake, it offers breathtaking scenery. Not only did it serve as the northern gate to the capital, but it also served as a crucial gateway to the Ming Dynasty's imperial mausoleums, the Thirteen Tombs. It is the essence of the Ming Great Wall.

Nine parts mountains and water, one part farmland, the green mountains and clear waters are in perfect harmony. From here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains, as well as the elegant beauty of the Great Wall, surrounded by green trees and red flowers. It creates a wonderful feeling of escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and returning to nature. The "three wonders" of the Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall are even more captivating and breathtaking.

The Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall's second unique feature is the lake, which naturally separates three sections of the wall, creating a unique spectacle of the Great Wall playing in the water and the ancient city walls submerged in it. This is a unique and tangible experience in the Beijing suburbs, offering a "mountain jade, underwater Great Wall" experience. The sight of three sections of the Huanghuacheng Great Wall submerged in water is truly unique in China. A poem goes like this: "The city embraces the rippling blue waves, the water submerges the ancient city walls; the city and water echo each other, creating a magnificent and leisurely scene."

Climate and best time to travel

There are flowers in three seasons and scenery in four seasons, with picturesque scenery, birds singing and flowers blooming. It is surrounded by mountains and lush green forests, forming a colorful plant landscape in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 3-4 hours

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Peak season: 8:30-17:00

Off-season: 8:30-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall is significant for its dramatic setting where the wall meets water. It was built during the Ming dynasty as part of China's defense network. Its unique feature of water surrounding parts of the wall has made it a popular spot for tourists and photographers.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Huanghuacheng is located about 60 kilometers north of Beijing, in the Huairou district. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car. There are also buses that go to the area, but it’s recommended to take a direct taxi from central Beijing for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Huanghuacheng Great Wall is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for the Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall is around 40-60 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through online booking platforms for convenience, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long queues. A few days ahead is generally sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall thoroughly, including hiking and taking photos, plan for about 2-3 hours. If you wish to explore nearby attractions, a half-day visit is ideal.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the sections of the Great Wall that stretch into the water, the scenic viewpoints along the wall, and the reservoir area. The picturesque setting of the wall against the water provides plenty of photo opportunities.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at the Huanghuacheng Great Wall, and most guides speak Chinese. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, but it’s advisable to check in advance if you prefer a tour in English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are at the higher sections of the Great Wall, where you can see the wall stretching over the water. The photo spots near the submerged sections of the wall and the surrounding hills are especially scenic, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route is to start from the entrance and hike up to the section where the wall meets the water. Explore the watchtowers and take a walk along the wall, enjoying the unique landscape. Afterward, visit the nearby Water Village or relax by the reservoir.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not typically available at Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall. However, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere around the reservoir in the evenings before it gets dark.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in the spring and autumn months. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning hours right after opening.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. Food and water can be purchased from local vendors, though options are limited. It’s recommended to bring your own snacks and water, especially for longer hikes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to its steep terrain. However, children can enjoy the visit, especially if they are able to manage the moderate hike to the wall.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the attraction and nearby shops. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at smaller vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants near the Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall that serve traditional Chinese dishes. For more options, you can visit restaurants in the nearby Huairou district.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the local restaurants. Halal food options may be harder to find in the immediate area, but can be located in larger cities like Beijing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses in the nearby Huairou district and around Yanqi Lake. Options include both budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels, such as Yanqi Lake Hotel.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Mutianyu Great Wall, a nearby section of the Wall, is a popular day trip destination.
• Yanqi Lake is also nearby and offers scenic views and boat rides.
• Hongluo Temple is another cultural site in the area worth visiting.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance to the Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall. Typical souvenirs include postcards, keychains, and small replicas of the Great Wall.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best transportation options for continuing your trip. You can also take public buses back to Huairou or Beijing, but taxis are more convenient for direct travel.