Hushan Great Wall

Introducing Hushan Great Wall

The Hushan Great Wall is located on the Yalu River, 15 kilometers east of Dandong City. It faces North Korea's Yuchi Island and the ancient city of Yizhou across the river. It is a tourist destination with beautiful scenery.

Construction of the Hushan Great Wall began in the fifth year of the Chenghua reign of the Ming Dynasty, supervised by Han Bin, then Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Liaodong. It marks the eastern starting point of the Ming Great Wall. Unlike other Great Walls, its construction materials, rather than bricks, were locally sourced from mud and loess. Located close to the border, visitors can observe the daily lives of the Korean people by climbing to the beacon tower at the summit. The "One Step Across" scenic spot, where the Bian River is at its narrowest, just a few meters, is the closest point to North Korea and is a great place for photo opportunities.

Climate and best time to travel

mid-temperate and warm temperate humid monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to spend half a day

Tickets

Regular ticket: RMB 60 (Monday to Sunday, April 1st - October 31st)

Regular ticket: RMB 55 (Monday to Sunday, November 1st - March 31st of the following year)

Tips:

10 yuan for the Great Wall Museum in the scenic area

Attraction opening hours

7:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Hushan Great Wall

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

The Hushan Great Wall, located in Dandong, Liaoning, is part of the Great Wall of China and represents one of the easternmost sections of the Wall. It was built during the Ming Dynasty to protect China from invasions from the northern regions. This section of the Great Wall is particularly famous for its picturesque scenery as it stretches across cliffs and offers spectacular views of the Yalu River and North Korea. The Hushan Great Wall is a historically significant military site and an important landmark in China’s defense history.

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

The Hushan Great Wall is located in Dandong, Liaoning Province, near the Yalu River. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from the Dandong city center, which is about 30 kilometers away. The site is accessible by car or taxi, and once there, visitors can walk around the area to explore the Wall itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Hushan Great Wall is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is most vibrant. Early mornings or late afternoons are less crowded and provide better lighting for photography.

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

The entrance fee to the Hushan Great Wall is approximately 40-60 RMB, depending on the season and specific activities you choose to partake in. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance, and it is advisable to buy them in person. Online booking options may also be available through certain Chinese travel platforms during peak tourist seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not typically required unless visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays. However, it is recommended to check online or with local tourism services if you are planning a visit during major Chinese holidays. In such cases, booking a few days in advance may help avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Hushan Great Wall can be comfortably completed in about 2-3 hours, depending on how thoroughly you wish to explore the Wall and the surrounding area. If you plan to hike along different sections of the Wall or visit the museum, you might want to allocate additional time.

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

• The “Dragon's Head” section of the Great Wall, which offers one of the most scenic and iconic views.
• The Hushan Great Wall Museum, which provides insight into the history and significance of the Wall.
• The well-preserved watchtowers and sections of the Wall that are still standing.
• The panoramic views of the Yalu River and North Korea from various points along the Wall.

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

Guided tours are available at the Hushan Great Wall, and they are usually conducted in Mandarin. For English-speaking visitors, it is advisable to arrange for a private tour guide in advance. Audio guides may also be available, though they are generally limited to Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography at the Hushan Great Wall are the Dragon’s Head, where the Wall meets the Yalu River, and from various high points along the Wall itself, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes. The sections of the Wall that climb steep cliffs also provide dramatic photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance, where you can visit the museum for background information.
• Walk along the main path leading up to the Dragon's Head section for iconic views.
• Explore the restored and partially unrestored sections of the Wall, stopping at the watchtowers for scenic views.
• Take time to walk around the surrounding areas for panoramic landscape views, particularly along the cliffside paths.

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

Currently, night visits and light shows are not a regular feature at the Hushan Great Wall. However, it’s possible that special events or evening programs might be organized during festivals or holidays, so checking with local tourism services ahead of time is recommended if you wish to explore the site at night.

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

The Hushan Great Wall can get crowded during national holidays, particularly in the summer months. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons, and outside of major Chinese holidays like the Spring Festival or National Day.

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

The site has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling souvenirs and refreshments. It is advisable to bring your own water and snacks, particularly if you plan to hike longer sections of the Wall.

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

The Hushan Great Wall is located on hilly terrain and may not be fully accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors due to its steep climbs and uneven paths. Some sections have ramps or handrails, but it can still be physically demanding, so it’s important to consider the fitness level of visitors before planning a trip.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments, such as WeChat Pay and Alipay, are commonly accepted at the Hushan Great Wall, as well as in nearby shops. Cash is still accepted, but credit cards may not be widely used, so it’s better to rely on mobile payments or carry cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants near the entrance where visitors can sample traditional Chinese food, including Liaoning specialties. For more dining options, Dandong city center offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving both local and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available at local restaurants, though vegan options may be limited. Halal food options are not commonly found in this area, but you may find some vegetarian alternatives in nearby Dandong.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Dandong city, which is a short drive away from the Hushan Great Wall. You can find mid-range to luxury hotels in Dandong, as well as guesthouses for a more affordable stay.

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

• The Zhenbao Island, located on the Yalu River, is a significant site with historical importance and beautiful views.
• The Dandong Yalu River Bridge, the largest bridge connecting China and North Korea.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops at the Hushan Great Wall sell a variety of traditional crafts, such as keychains, postcards, and local artwork. Handicrafts representing the Great Wall, like miniature models, are common souvenirs.

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

After visiting the Hushan Great Wall, taxis or buses can take you back to Dandong city, where you can continue your journey. Dandong also has train connections to other cities in Liaoning Province and beyond.