Ming Changling

Introducing Ming Changling

Changling is the first of the Ming Tombs. It is the joint burial tomb of Emperor Chengzu Zhu Di and his empress Xu. It is located on the southern foot of the main peak of Tianshou Mountain in Changping District, Beijing.

The Changling Mausoleum, built in the seventh year of the Yongle reign (1409), is the largest and earliest of the Thirteen Tombs. Its vast mausoleum complex features meticulously crafted materials and meticulous construction. The project was extensive and took a long time, with the underground palace alone taking four years. The above-ground buildings are also the best preserved.

The Changling Mausoleum covers approximately 120,000 square meters. Its layout is a circular shape with a square front and a circular back. The square front portion consists of three connected courtyards. It is the ancestral mausoleum of the Thirteen Tombs and one of the most important tourist attractions within the mausoleum area.

The Ming Tombs are of extremely high architectural value. The Nanmu Hall in Changling is the only one of its kind in the country, with exquisite stone carvings. Whether in terms of architectural form, structure, or art, the Ming Tombs are a physical history of Ming Dynasty architecture.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate monsoon climate is best for travel in spring, summer and autumn.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Zun'en Gate, Zun'en Hall, and Changling Minglou

1-2 hours

Tickets

30 yuan (off-season) 45 yuan (peak season), free for children under 1.2 meters

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Ming Changling

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

Ming Changling is one of the Ming dynasty’s imperial tombs, built for Emperor Yongle, who is known for moving the capital to Beijing. It holds significant cultural and historical value as part of the Ming Tombs complex, which represents the power and grandeur of the Ming dynasty.

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

Ming Changling is located in the Changping District of Beijing. It can be accessed by taking a taxi or a bus from central Beijing. The Tombs are well connected via public transport, with buses frequently running to the Ming Tombs area. Visitors can also take the subway to the Changping station and transfer to a local bus.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The tomb is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds during weekdays.

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

The entrance fee for Ming Changling is around RMB 40. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of the tomb complex, and online bookings are also available for convenience.

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

It’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). You can book tickets a day or two in advance online to avoid long lines at the entrance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for about 1-2 hours to fully explore the Ming Changling tomb and the surrounding areas. If you wish to enjoy a leisurely stroll and explore the Sacred Way as well, 2-3 hours should suffice.

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

• The main tomb where Emperor Yongle is buried, with its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
• The Sacred Way, a grand pathway lined with stone statues of animals and officials leading to the tomb.
• The surrounding gardens, which offer a peaceful and scenic environment for visitors to relax and explore.

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

Guided tours are available, usually in Mandarin, but some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English, to help visitors understand the tomb’s history and significance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the hill near the main tomb offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
• The stone statues along the Sacred Way make for a great photo opportunity.
• The tomb’s intricate architecture and carvings are excellent for close-up photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance and walk along the Sacred Way, admiring the stone statues. Continue towards the tomb itself and explore the main building. Afterward, take some time to enjoy the peaceful gardens surrounding the tomb.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at Ming Changling, but the tomb can be a serene and peaceful place to visit during the day. Special tours are available on request, which can provide more in-depth insights into the history and significance of the site.

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

It can get crowded during public holidays and weekends. The best times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are thinner.

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

There are toilets located around the site. Food and water are available at nearby vendors, and there are rest areas where visitors can sit and relax. Some small shops are available for purchasing souvenirs.

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

The site is generally accessible for elderly visitors and families with children. However, the terrain near the tomb can be hilly, so it may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some areas may not be wheelchair-friendly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the ticket booth and small shops, but larger transactions, including at restaurants, accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are local eateries around the Ming Tombs area offering traditional Chinese dishes.
• For more options, head back to the city center where you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants around the tomb area. Halal food is limited but can be found in Beijing's central areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels in the Changping District, though the area is mainly residential and rural. For more hotel options, visitors may choose to stay in central Beijing and travel to the tomb via public transport.

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

• The other Ming Tombs, including the Dingling tomb, are nearby and can be visited in the same trip.
• The Badaling section of the Great Wall is about 30 minutes away by car, making it a great addition to a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the tomb offering traditional Chinese crafts, including replicas of Ming dynasty artifacts, souvenirs like tea sets, and carvings of the tomb's stone statues.

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

• Return to the city center by bus or taxi for more sightseeing opportunities in Beijing.
• The nearby Great Wall section (Badaling) is a great next stop if you want to continue exploring.