A 2-day, 1-night trip to Shanhaiguan, a journey through the romance of ancient times!
by Moto2404
Oct 12, 2025
#0YenTravel2025Autumn
Introducing a 2-day, 1-night trip to Shanhaiguan from Tianjin or Beijing! ️
Shanhaiguan is a historic tourist spot easily accessible by train, about 2-3 hours from Beijing or Tianjin. Enjoy the magnificent views and sea breeze at "Laolongtou," where the Ming Dynasty Great Wall stretches into the sea. Experience the atmosphere of old China and local cuisine in the ancient city streets. Stay overnight to enjoy the night illuminations and a quiet seaside stroll, making it the perfect refreshing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
🌄 Overview
Itinerary: 2-day, 1-night trip (Arrive at 11:00 AM on Day 1 / Depart at noon on Day 2)
・Day 1: Jiaoshan Great Wall → First Pass under the Heaven (Sightseeing in the Old City Area) → Night Light Show
・Day 2: Laolongtou → Return to Shanhaiguan Station in the afternoon
😎 Highlights
・First Pass under the Heaven (Shanhaiguan Pass): Ancient city, city gate, city walls, etc. Check the structure of the castle and the forks in the wall.
- Laolongtou: The point where the Great Wall joins the sea, where you can experience the harmony of seascapes and history.
- Jiaoshan Great Wall: A section of the wall slightly toward the mountain. Worth visiting if you're looking for views.
- Old Town: Stroll through local life and traditional architecture and streets.
- Qinhuangdao City Spots: If you have time, visit Beidaihe Beach, the seafood market, etc.
- Temples and Cultural Facilities: Local museums, local temples, etc. (Include any interesting ones).
😃Planning Notes/Tips
- Advance Train Tickets: Book your high-speed rail/train tickets early, especially during peak season.
- Allow plenty of time for transportation: Don't underestimate travel times from the station to tourist attractions, and from tourist attractions to your accommodation.
- Travel Season/Weather: The sea breeze is pleasant in summer, but in winter the wind can be chilly along the coast. Prepare your attire.・Try seafood: This area is on the Bohai Sea side, so the seafood is fresh.
・Make the most of the night or sunrise time: The Maritime Great Wall at Laolongtou is particularly picturesque when viewed at sunrise or sunset.
Have a backup plan: Include backup sightseeing spots in case of train delays or bad weather.
👍Specific Plan
🩷Day 1
11:00 Arrive at Shanhaiguan Station
11:15-11:30 Travel from the station to Jiaoshan Great Wall (by taxi or hire a car)
11:30-14:30 Sightseeing at Jiaoshan Great Wall (using Trip.com tickets)
14:30-15:00 Travel from Jiaoshan Great Wall to the Shanhaiguan Old City Area
15:00-17:30 Zhendonglou (First Pass in the World/Shanhaiguan Pass Gate) Tours (city gates, city walls, etc.)
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Dinner and stroll around the old city
7:00 PM Evening Light Show (Watch the night illuminations and historical show at the First Pass in the World, if available)
Overnight: Inside the Old Shanhaiguan
🩷Day 2 (October 12th)
7:30 AM Breakfast and check-out
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM Sightseeing at Laolongtou
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Travel from Laolongtou to Shanhaiguan Station
Departure from Shanhaiguan Station around noon
⁉️ Practical Tips for Foreigners (Non-Chinese)
- Be sure to bring your passport: You must present your passport when purchasing tickets and entering the city (foreigners can use their passport as ID). Some reviews have reported "issues with foreigners," so it's safer and more efficient to purchase tickets in advance from official or major ticket sales websites!
Post by Moto2404 | Oct 12, 2025























