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The Ancient Great Wall in Ningxia offers a unique experience of walking along a less crowded stretch of the Great Wall. Visitors can hike along the restored and original sections, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains, and explore the local cultural and historical significance of the site.
The Ningxia Great Wall is primarily divided into four sections: the East Line, the West Line, the North Line, and the Guyuan Inner Line. With a total length of 1,507 kilometers, 517.9 kilometers of the wall are visible, featuring 589 watchtowers, 237 beacon towers, and 25 forts. Remains of barns, trenches, and "pin"-shaped cellars have also been discovered. The Ningxia Hedong Border Wall was built in the 10th year of the Ming Dynasty Chenghua period. This section of the wall runs east of Qingshuiying and is locally known as the "Second Border." During this recent survey of the Ming Great Wall, numerous neatly arranged "pin"-shaped pits were discovered. These pits are arranged in three rows from north to south, with the front and back rows aligned. The middle row is offset from the front and back rows, forming a "pin" shape. Fourteen rectangular pits are distributed within a 10x10 meter area.
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a semi-arid climate with the characteristics of typical continental monsoon climate and desert climate, with late spring, early autumn, short hot summer, long cold winter, strong winds, abundant sand, drought and little rain.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
free
All day
The Ancient Great Wall in Ningxia is a lesser-known section of the Great Wall of China, built during the Ming Dynasty to protect the northern frontier from invasions. Its strategic importance lies in its role as a military defense against nomadic tribes. It is also an important symbol of China's historical efforts to defend its borders.
The Ancient Great Wall is located in Ningxia, about 70 kilometers from the city of Yinchuan. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car, as public transportation options are limited. A car ride from Yinchuan takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
The site is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities. The peak visiting time is during the summer months, but visiting in spring or autumn will offer a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥40 to ¥60. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site. It's advisable to check locally for updated pricing as it may vary based on the season.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Ancient Great Wall in Ningxia. However, for larger groups or during busy periods (like holidays), it might be a good idea to book tickets a few days in advance to ensure availability.
You can explore the Ancient Great Wall in about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the sections you choose to visit and whether you plan to hike or just take in the views.
The must-see highlights include the well-preserved wall sections, the watchtowers, and the breathtaking desert landscape. Visitors should also explore the surrounding area for a sense of the historical significance and military strategy.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be offered during the peak tourist season. English-speaking guides might be rare, so consider arranging a guide in advance if needed.
The best viewpoints are from the watchtowers along the wall, where you can capture both the wall itself and the expansive desert landscape. Sunset or early morning offers the best lighting for photography.
Start by walking from the eastern side to the western side, passing the main sections of the wall. Don’t miss the watchtowers, and take time to enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and desert. If you're interested in history, make sure to visit the nearby small museum that explains the region’s role in the defense of China.
There are no night visits or light shows at the Ancient Great Wall in Ningxia. It is primarily a daytime attraction, best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and the history of the wall.
The site is relatively quiet compared to more famous sections of the Great Wall. The least crowded times are on weekdays during the off-peak season, particularly in spring and autumn.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and a small shop selling snacks and souvenirs. There are no large restaurants or dining facilities, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks if needed.
The attraction has some uneven surfaces, especially on the older parts of the wall. While it is accessible to children and the elderly, those with mobility issues may find some areas difficult to navigate. It's best to check with the local staff for specific accessibility options.
Cash is often required for small purchases, as cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted. It’s best to carry cash with you for entry fees and purchases.
There are a few local restaurants near the site offering traditional Chinese cuisine. However, the options are limited, and it’s advisable to bring your own food or stop in nearby Yinchuan for a larger selection.
Some local restaurants offer vegetarian and halal food options, especially in the Ningxia region, which is home to the Hui Muslim population. It’s best to check the menu in advance if you have dietary preferences.
Accommodations near the Ancient Great Wall are limited, but there are guesthouses and budget hotels in nearby towns. The city of Yinchuan offers more hotel options, ranging from budget to mid-range establishments.
Nearby attractions include the Western Xia Tombs, the Nanguan Mosque, and the Yinchuan Museum. These sites, along with the Great Wall, can be combined in a day trip from Yinchuan.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling local crafts, including traditional Ningxia-style items such as pottery, scarves, and calligraphy. You can also find souvenirs related to the Great Wall itself, such as postcards and model wall pieces.
After visiting, taxis or private vehicles are the best options to continue your trip. Yinchuan is about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car, and from there, you can take buses or hire a taxi for further exploration.
