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The Qin Great Wall ruins are located on Provincial Highway 210 in Guyang County, Baotou City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The Qin Great Wall began in Minxian County, as evidenced by numerous relics and ruins. First, Minxian County boasts a large number of Qin Dynasty coins. In 1947, a Qin Dynasty kiln was discovered in Zhongbao Village, Minxian County, unearthing tens of thousands of Qin half-liang copper coins. Second, Qin Dynasty tiles are widely distributed. These tiles are found in abundance in locations such as Longwangtai and Baita Temple east of the city, and Bandagou in Minshan Township north of the city. Within Minxian County, the Yejiaya Culture deposits (now within Minxian Hospital) contain even more Qin Dynasty tiles, which can be counted. Third, numerous artificial trenches remain in the northern mountainous areas of Minxian County. The Qin Great Wall's starting point is Tieguanmen in Shili Township, and trenches in the Zhuoping area provide strong evidence. The Great Wall ruins are in Minxian County, and their origin is also in Minxian County, beyond any doubt.
Climate: North temperate continental monsoon arid climate
Best travel time: June to October
1-3 hours
09:00-17:00
The Qin Great Wall Ruins in Baotou are remnants of the northern defensive walls built during the Qin dynasty (221–206 BCE). They represent early Chinese efforts to protect settlements and trade routes from nomadic invasions and are significant for understanding the military, political, and engineering history of ancient China.
Located near Baotou in Inner Mongolia, the site is best accessed by taxi or private car. Some local tour operators offer guided transportation from Baotou city. Public transport options are limited.
The ruins are generally open during daylight hours. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons to visit, with milder temperatures and clear skies for photography.
Entrance fees are modest and usually purchased onsite. Tickets may be included in guided tour packages, which can be booked online.
Advance booking is not generally required. For organized tours or private guides, booking a few days in advance is recommended.
2–3 hours is sufficient to walk the main preserved sections, explore viewpoints, and visit exhibition areas.
Guided tours are available through local operators, mainly in Chinese. English-speaking guides can sometimes be arranged in advance.
Start at the main entrance, follow the wall path to visit watchtowers, then continue to elevated sections for panoramic views, ending at the small exhibition areas to understand the historical context.
Night visits are generally not permitted. No regular light shows are available. Special historical or educational tours may be organized by local operators.
The site is relatively uncrowded, especially on weekdays and outside national holidays. Weekends and peak summer months see slightly higher visitor numbers.
Facilities are limited. Restrooms are available near the entrance, with a few small shops or kiosks for snacks and water. Picnic areas are minimal.
Some sections involve uneven terrain and stairs, making accessibility challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised near elevated sections.
Cash is recommended for entrance fees and small purchases. Some operators may accept mobile payments, but coverage is not guaranteed throughout the site.
Limited dining options are available near the entrance, offering local snacks and simple meals.
Vegetarian and halal options are limited but may be available in nearby Baotou restaurants or via guided tour arrangements.
Accommodations are mostly in Baotou city, ranging from guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Some tours offer overnight stays in nearby towns.
Small souvenir shops near the entrance sell postcards, miniature wall models, and local handicrafts.
