Ming Tombs

Introducing Ming Tombs

The Ming Tombs, a national scenic area, are located at the southern foot of Tianshou Mountain in Changping District, 50 kilometers north of Beijing. They house the tombs of Emperor Chengzu Zhu Di and thirteen subsequent emperors. Their majestic and orderly layout gives them the name "Ming Tombs." The area boasts beautiful natural scenery and a wealth of cultural relics.

Starting from the Changling Mausoleum of Emperor Chengzu Zhu Di, to the Siling Mausoleum of Emperor Sizong Zhu Youjian, thirteen emperor tombs, seven concubines' tombs, and one eunuch's tomb were built here. A total of thirteen emperors, twenty-three empresses, two princes, more than thirty concubines, and one eunuch were buried here. It is the largest existing imperial mausoleum complex in China and even in the world, with the most emperors and empresses' tombs.

Climate and best time to travel

The four seasons are suitable, with the most pleasant temperatures in spring and autumn.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Ming Changling

Located at the southern foot of Tianshou Mountain's main peak, it houses the joint burial site of Emperor Chengzu Zhu Di, the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress, Empress Xu. It is the largest and earliest of the Thirteen Tombs, and its ground structures are the best preserved. It is the ancestral tomb of the Thirteen Tombs and one of the most important tourist attractions within the area.

Ming Dingling Mausoleum

The Ming Dingling Mausoleum is one of the three largest mausoleums among the Thirteen Tombs. Its ground floor area covers 180,000 square meters, with three spacious courtyards in the front and a towering treasure city in the rear. In front of the main gate is a three-foot white marble bridge. Beyond the bridge is a tall stele pavilion. Surrounding the pavilion are over 300 buildings, including ancestral halls, animal slaughter pavilions, and the Dingling Mausoleum Supervisor.

Ming Zhaoling Mausoleum

Located at the eastern foot of Dayu Mountain, it is the joint burial site of Emperor Muzong Zhu Zaihou, the 12th Emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and his three empresses. It is the first of the Thirteen Tombs to undergo large-scale restoration and renovation.

Main Shinto

The Changling Sacred Way, also known as the Changling Sacred Way, is the leading section of the Changling mausoleum complex. It stretches approximately 7.3 kilometers. During the Ming Dynasty, a series of sacred and tomb-related facilities and bridges and culverts were constructed along the way, from south to north, including the stone memorial archway, the Three-Sky Bridge, the Dahong Gate, the Pavilion of Divine Merit and Sacred Virtue, stone statues, the Lingxing Gate, the South Five-Sky Bridge, the Seven-Sky Bridge, and the North Five-Sky Bridge.

Recommended play time: 2-4 hours

Tickets

Combined ticket : 100 yuan/ticket in off-season , 130 yuan/ticket in peak season

Ming Dingling Tomb : 40 yuan/ticket in off-season , 60 yuan/ticket in peak season

Ming Changling : 30 yuan/ticket in off-season and 45 yuan/ticket in peak season

Ming Zhaoling Mausoleum : 20 yuan/ticket in off-season , 30 yuan/ticket in peak season

Main Shinto : 20 yuan/ticket in off-season , 30 yuan/ticket in peak season

Juyongguan Great Wall : 35 yuan/ticket in off-season and 40 yuan/ticket in peak season

Attraction opening hours

Peak season 8:00-17:30 (Monday-Sunday, April 1st-October 31st)

Off-season 8:30-17:00 (November 1st - March 31st of the following year)

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Most Popular FAQs for Ming Tombs

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

The Ming Tombs are the burial site for 13 of the 16 Ming dynasty emperors, and they are an important cultural and historical site in China. The tombs are known for their grand architecture, beautiful natural setting, and significant role in Chinese imperial history.

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

The Ming Tombs are located 50 km north of Beijing, near Changping District. You can reach the site by taxi, bus, or private car. The most convenient way from central Beijing is to take a taxi or book a guided tour. Public buses are also available from the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Ming Tombs are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Early mornings are ideal to avoid the tourist rush.

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

The entrance fee to the Ming Tombs is generally around 45 RMB, with additional costs for special areas like the Dingling Tomb. Tickets can be purchased onsite, and it’s recommended to buy them on the spot as there is usually no need for advance booking.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons (holidays or weekends), you might want to check availability or book a guided tour in advance to ensure access.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the Ming Tombs, including the Sacred Way and the main tombs, allow around 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit.

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

• The Sacred Way, famous for its 12 stone statues that line the path to the tombs.
• The Dingling Tomb, which is the only tomb that has been excavated and offers a glimpse into the treasures of the Ming dynasty emperors.
• The Changling Tomb, the largest and most impressive of the tombs, built for the third emperor of the Ming dynasty, Yongle.

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

Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English. Audio guides are also available for rent at the site in various languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The view from the top of the Sacred Way offers excellent photographic opportunities of the surrounding mountains and the tombs.
• Inside the Dingling Tomb, the tomb chamber is a fascinating spot for capturing historical artifacts and architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a walk along the Sacred Way, then explore the Dingling and Changling Tombs. Make sure to visit the museum near Dingling Tomb to see the artifacts recovered during excavation.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the Ming Tombs, and the site is best visited during daylight hours.

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

The Ming Tombs can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or during the off-season months of winter and late autumn.

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

Basic facilities are available, including toilets, food stands, and rest areas. There are also small souvenir shops offering traditional Chinese crafts and memorabilia.

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

The site is moderately accessible for elderly or disabled visitors, although some areas, such as the Sacred Way, may require walking on uneven paths. Some tombs may also have stairs. It is advisable to check for accessibility options in advance if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at some smaller food stalls and souvenir shops, but most major areas accept mobile payments (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) and credit cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small local restaurants near the Ming Tombs that serve traditional Chinese food, but there are no large dining options within the tombs site itself.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and some halal options may be available at nearby restaurants, but it’s recommended to inquire locally for specific dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in the Changping District, such as the Ming Tombs Hotel and various local guesthouses. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors can head back to Beijing city center.

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

• The Great Wall at Badaling, which is close to the Ming Tombs and can be easily visited on the same day.
• Longqing Gorge, offering boat rides and scenic hikes, located about 40 minutes away from the Ming Tombs.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling items like traditional Chinese handicrafts, paintings, and statues of animals from the Sacred Way.

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

• Taxi or private car is the easiest way to continue the trip after visiting the Ming Tombs.
• Public buses are available to return to Beijing, though they may be less convenient.