Juyongguan Great Wall

Introducing Juyongguan Great Wall

Juyongguan, a famous ancient pass along the Great Wall north of Beijing, lies in a canyon 20 kilometers north of Changping County. Its strategic location makes it a crucial pass on the Great Wall. Flanked by overlapping mountains, lush trees, and vibrant mountain flowers, the scenery is magnificent. As early as 800 years ago, during the Jin Dynasty, it was listed as one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Yanjing, known as "Juyong Greenery." As the northern gateway to Beijing, Juyongguan exudes the aura of "one man guarding the pass, ten thousand men unable to break through."

Now when visiting the Juyongguan Great Wall, there are several must-see attractions:

Yuntai: At the center of Juyongguan, there's a "street-crossing tower" named "Yuntai," meaning "looking out from afar as if in the clouds." A doorway in the center of the platform allows for pedestrians, vehicles, and horses to pass through. Yuntai is a masterpiece of Yuan Dynasty stone sculpture.

The arched city and the North and South Gates: The South Gate's barbican is horseshoe-shaped, while the North Gate's barbican is rectangular. Two large black plaques with white backgrounds, inscribed "The First Great Pass Under Heaven," hang on the north and south sides of the tower. The name "The First Great Pass Under Heaven" comes from Qian Liangduo's travelogue, "A Brief History of Saiwai," written during the Qing Dynasty: "Fifteen miles to Juyongguan City, the gate plaque reads 'The First Great Pass Under Heaven'."

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate, spring and autumn are the best times for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

3 hours

Tickets

45 yuan in peak season, 40 yuan in off-season

Attraction opening hours

8:30-16:00 in the off-season, 8:00-17:00 in the peak season

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Most Popular FAQs for Juyongguan Great Wall

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

Juyongguan Great Wall is a key defensive section of the Great Wall, located at the foot of the Yan Mountain. It was built during the Ming Dynasty and has played a significant role in protecting Beijing from invasions. Its strategic location was crucial for the defense of the northern border of China.

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

Juyongguan Great Wall is located about 60 kilometers from Beijing's city center. You can reach it by taxi, private car, or via a bus service from central Beijing. The nearest subway station is Changping, and from there, you can take a bus or taxi to the Wall.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Juyongguan Great Wall is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons, especially in spring and autumn, to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 45 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and online booking is also available through official tourism platforms.

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

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) to secure your entry. You can book tickets up to a week in advance online.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan to spend around 2-3 hours to explore the Juyongguan Great Wall, including walking along its pathways and visiting the surrounding attractions like the temples and historical sites.

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

• The Juyongguan Pass, a key military gateway of the Great Wall.
• The Watchtower at the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains.
• The ancient inscriptions and carvings found along the Wall.

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

Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English, providing in-depth information about the history of the Great Wall. Audio guides may also be rented at the entrance in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the Watchtower at the top of the Wall and along the higher sections where you can capture the Wall winding through the mountain landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by entering through the main entrance, walk up the Wall towards the first tower, and then proceed towards the Juyongguan Pass. Make sure to stop for photos at the Watchtower and enjoy the views of the surrounding valleys.

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

Night visits and light shows are not currently available at Juyongguan Great Wall, but special tours may be available during certain festivals or peak seasons, such as Chinese New Year.

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

The Juyongguan Great Wall can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon during the off-season (winter or early spring) are the least crowded times to visit.

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

There are toilets, water fountains, and a few rest areas along the Wall. There are small shops near the entrance selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. You can also find some restaurants nearby for a meal after your visit.

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

The Wall itself is steep and may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the lower sections and the entrance area are accessible to families with children or those with limited mobility. Consider hiring a guide for assistance if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the Juyongguan Great Wall, as well as credit and debit cards. Cash is also accepted but less commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few restaurants and small eateries near the entrance serving Chinese cuisine, including local Beijing dishes. For more variety, you may need to travel back to the city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some vegetarian and vegan options are available at the restaurants near the Wall, but halal food options may be limited. For specific dietary needs, it's recommended to bring your own food or check in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Great Wall Hotel is a nearby option for those seeking comfort with easy access to the Wall.
• There are also several guesthouses and smaller hotels in the area for budget-friendly options.

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

• The Badaling section of the Great Wall is close by and offers a more famous but equally stunning experience.
• The Ming Tombs, another historic site, is located not far from Juyongguan and can be visited on the same day.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the Wall offer a range of items such as mini replicas of the Great Wall, Chinese calligraphy, postcards, and traditional crafts like cloisonné and silk items.

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

• Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Didi are available to take you to other attractions or back to the city center.
• Public buses also connect the area with central Beijing, but taxis are often more convenient for time-sensitive travel.