Xiangshui Lake Great Wall
The Xiangshui Lake Great Wall, a serene fusion of Ming Dynasty fortifications and natural splendor, nestles in Beijing’s Huairou District where ancient stone meets cascading springs. Built in 1368 under Emperor Hongwu, this UNESCO-tentative-listed section served as a critical northern defense post, later immortalized by poet Li Bai as “the Dragon’s Vein Guarding the Capital.” Today, it’s renowned for its untouched “wild wall” segments, mineral-rich turquoise lakes, and springtime blossoms.
Historical Overview
Constructed in 1368, the Xiangshui Lake stretch was reinforced in 1569 by General Qi Jiguang to repel Mongol invasions. Its strategic location controlled the Jundu Mountain Pass, a historic invasion route. The wall witnessed Ming-Qing skirmishes and 1930s抗日 battles, with bullet marks still visible on Tower 174. In 1985, archaeologists discovered a Ming military archive here, detailing troop deployments and salt trade routes. Now a UNESCO candidate, it balances preservation with eco-tourism, offering a tranquil alternative to Beijing’s crowded sections.
Structural Layout
The site spans three zones:
- Fortified Ridge: A 2km stretch with 12 restored watchtowers, including the star-shaped “Lianyun Tower.”
- Spring Valley: Where the Great Wall dips into Xiangshui Lake, fed by 18 mineral springs.
- Wild Wall Zone: Unrestored 5km segments with vegetation-covered stones and collapsed beacons.
Major Attractions
Tower 174 (General’s Post): A 14th-century fortress with cannons and a Ming military map mural.
Emerald Springs: Azure pools beneath Tower 88, fed by underground limestone aquifers.
Lianyun Tower: A 16th-century observation deck with 360-degree mountain views.
Wild Wall Trail: A 3km untouched path with rare “double-decker” ramparts.
Spring Goddess Temple: A 400-year-old Taoist shrine at the lake’s edge.
Huanghua City Ruins: Remnants of a 1115 CE Jin Dynasty outpost near the entrance.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Entrance → Tower 88 Springs → Lianyun Tower → General’s Post → Temple → Exit.
Highlights: Springs, fortress ruins, and lakeside temples.
- Adventure Route (4–5 hours):
Add the Wild Wall Trail and a 1.5km trek to the “Dragon’s Backbone” ridge for sunset.
Highlights: Untouched sections, rare flora, and golden-hour photography.
- Heritage Route (Full Day):
Combine both routes with a guided tour of the Ming Military Archive Exhibition Hall.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via official WeChat “Xiangshui Lake Great Wall” (up to 5 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance; arrive by 9 AM to avoid crowds.
- Prices:
Peak Season (April–October): ¥55 (adults), ¥30 (students/seniors).
Off-Season (November–March): ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
By Car: 1.5-hour drive from Beijing via G6/G45 highways. Parking: ¥15/day.
By Bus: Take H24 from Dongzhimen Station to Huairou, transfer to H36 to Xiangshuihu Stop (2.5 hours total).
By Tour: Day trips from downtown Beijing for ¥200–300/person (includes transport + guide).
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–3 PM; visit early (8 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).
Crowds: Weekdays are ideal; weekends attract families and hikers.
Weather: Spring (April–May) for peonies; autumn (October) for maple foliage.
Essentials: Wear waterproof hiking boots (muddy trails), pack swimwear (optional lake dip), and carry ¥10 cash for spring water refills.
Pro Tip: Combine with a stay at nearby The Schoolhouse boutique hotel for a luxury-history fusion experience.
