Southern Great Wall

Introducing the Southern Great Wall

The Southern Great Wall, once primarily used to prevent uprisings by the Miao people, is a section of the wall built in Hunan during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty. It is also known as the Miaojiang Great Wall. For a time, it lay dormant in the annals of history, little known until April 22, 2000, when Professor Luo Zhewen finally confirmed it as the Southern Great Wall, causing a sensation both domestically and internationally. Every three to five miles along the Southern Great Wall, border checkpoints, barracks, and outposts were established, such as Tingzi Pass, Wuchao Pass, Ala Pass, and Jingbian Pass, all now renowned tourist attractions. These sections hold immense historical and research value, serving as tangible historical and cultural relics that reflect the characteristics of a dynasty and provide a vivid historical resource for studying the Ming and Qing dynasties' conquest and rule over remote ethnic minorities.

Climate and best time to travel

It is not too cold and the climate is comfortable if you go there from June to September.

It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, hot and rainy summers and warm and humid winters.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;

Famous scenic spots: Tingzi Pass, Wuchao Pass, Ala Pass, Jingbian Pass, etc.

Tickets

45 yuan/person

Seniors aged 70 and above and children under 1.3 meters in height enjoy free treatment.

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)

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Most Popular FAQs for Southern Great Wall

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

The Southern Great Wall in Hunan was built during the Ming Dynasty to defend against invasions from southern tribes. It represents ancient military engineering and is a symbol of the region’s historical strategic importance and cultural heritage.

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

The Southern Great Wall is located in the Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. Visitors can reach it by taxi or tour bus from nearby towns or cities such as Fenghuang or Jishou. Walking along the wall is part of the experience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and scenic conditions for hiking and photography.

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

Tickets can range from 50–100 CNY depending on the section. Tickets are available at the entrance or online via local tourism websites.

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

Booking in advance is recommended during holidays and weekends, typically a few days ahead, especially for guided tours or group visits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours for a standard hike along the wall, longer if exploring multiple sections or taking guided tours.

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

• Main watchtowers and fortifications.
• Forest-covered wall sections with panoramic views.
• Historical inscriptions and ancient construction techniques displayed along the route.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-speaking guides may be arranged through local agencies. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Top of main watchtowers for panoramic mountain views.
• Scenic sections surrounded by forests and rivers.
• Sunrise and sunset viewpoints along the wall for dramatic lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, hike along preserved sections to key watchtowers, enjoy the viewpoints, and return via a different scenic section if possible.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typical. Special guided hikes or cultural storytelling tours may be arranged by local operators during peak seasons.

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

It can be busy on weekends and national holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.

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

• Public toilets at main entrances and key viewpoints.
• Small snack shops or stalls near entrances.
• Rest areas along hiking routes for breaks.

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

Some wall sections involve steep stairs and uneven terrain, making them challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised. Lower-level areas are more accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at ticket counters, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in nearby facilities.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries offering Xiangxi cuisine, small cafes, and tea houses are available near entrances and along nearby towns.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants; halal options are limited and should be checked in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and small inns are available in nearby towns like Fenghuang and Jishou.

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

• Fenghuang Ancient Town.
• Tujia and Miao cultural villages.
• Local rivers and scenic mountains suitable for short hikes.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell Tujia and Miao handicrafts, embroidery, silver jewelry, and local snacks.

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

Local taxis, tour buses, or private cars can connect to nearby towns, Fenghuang Ancient Town, or Jishou for further exploration.