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Visitors can explore the historic Great Wall at the Ridge, hike along its less crowded sections, take panoramic photos of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and enjoy the serenity of the area. The Ridge offers a peaceful experience with fewer tourists than the more famous sections of the Great Wall.
Changcheng Ridge is 2,100 meters above sea level and is located in Chongli County, Zhangjiakou City, Hebei Province. It is named after the ruins of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall on the ridge.
Climbing to the alpine meadows of Changchengling, at an altitude of 2,100 meters, one is greeted by a carpet of vibrant flowers, a sense of comfort that permeates the heart. From afar, the uninterrupted mountain ranges rise and fall in a breathtaking spectacle; up close, the sounds of pine trees, birch trees, and birdsong blend together like a beautiful forest symphony.
It is a summer resort in summer and has ski resorts in winter.
Recommended play time: 2-4 hours
50 yuan/person, 10 yuan/car is required to drive in
Great Wall Ridge is a remote and less-visited section of the Great Wall, offering an authentic experience. It was built during the Ming dynasty to protect the northern frontier from invasions. The Ridge section is known for its untouched beauty and offers a more secluded view of China's historical landmark.
Great Wall Ridge is located in Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province. It can be accessed by car or taxi from Zhangjiakou city center. Public transportation is limited, so renting a car or taking a taxi is the best option for reaching this attraction.
The Great Wall Ridge is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (April to October) when the weather is mild and ideal for hiking. Avoid peak summer and winter as the area can get quite cold and less accessible.
There is no official entrance fee to visit the Great Wall Ridge itself. However, certain nearby areas or parking facilities may charge a small fee. Tickets for guided tours, if required, can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.
Booking in advance is not necessary unless you wish to join a guided tour. For peak season visits, it's a good idea to book at least a few days in advance if you're planning on having a guide or organized tour.
To explore the Great Wall Ridge, allocate about 2 to 3 hours if you're just walking along the wall and taking photos. If you plan to hike along more remote sections or explore the surrounding nature, you may need up to 5 hours.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, but some English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance. Audio guides may also be available, but it is advisable to confirm with the local tour operators ahead of time.
The best viewpoints are at the elevated sections of the Great Wall, where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography.
Start from the main entrance and walk along the Great Wall, taking time to explore the restored sections as well as the more rugged parts. For a deeper exploration, consider hiking up to higher ridges for better views.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows or special tours offered at this location. However, the Great Wall Ridge offers great stargazing opportunities due to its remote location.
The Great Wall Ridge is less crowded compared to other sections like Badaling. Weekdays and early mornings or late afternoons during the off-peak seasons are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas, are available along the route. Food and water may be available at small vendors or rest stops, but it's recommended to bring your own supplies, especially if you plan on hiking.
The area is accessible to elderly and children, especially if you stick to the main road and restored sections. However, some parts of the Great Wall Ridge may have steep steps or rugged terrain, which could be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in the area. It’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors or remote areas where mobile payments may not be accepted.
There are small restaurants and local food stalls near the Great Wall Ridge offering traditional Chinese meals. Zhangjiakou city, about an hour away, has a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are commonly available, and some restaurants in Zhangjiakou may offer halal food. It’s advisable to inquire about specific dietary requirements at local restaurants.
There are hotels and guesthouses in Zhangjiakou city, which is the closest large city to the Great Wall Ridge. For a more rustic experience, local inns or farm stays near the wall may also be available.
There are small souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese items, including Great Wall-themed merchandise such as postcards, shirts, and local handicrafts.
After visiting the Great Wall Ridge, you can take a taxi or rent a car to explore nearby attractions, or return to Zhangjiakou city by car. Public transportation options are limited, so private transportation is recommended.
