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Jiankou Great Wall’s History
The Jiankou Great Wall section, also known as the "Arrow Nock" in English, carries a rich and captivating history. Built during the reign of the Ming Dynasty in 1368, and continuously rebuilt and reworked up until 1644, this wall has stood against the test of time, serving as a silent witness to the ebb and flow of centuries.
The construction of the Jiankou section was a monumental task, undertaken mainly due to its strategic location for military defense. Overlooking the vast, mountainous terrain of Northern China, provided an excellent vantage point for spotting and thwarting potential invasions.
Jiankou was built entirely out of large dolomite (a white sedimentary carbonate rock) which is visible from a great distance. It gets its name from the shape of the mountain it sits on, which looks like an elongated “W”, the nock of an arrow. This section of the wall is renowned for its unique construction style, characterized by its tall, sturdy watchtowers and steep gradients.
Why Visit the Jiankou Great Wall?
Unparalleled Beauty: Unlike its restored counterparts, Jiankou has preserved its wild beauty. And there was - until recently - no restoration. The section meanders along precipitous mountain ridges covered in lush greenery and the combination of the ancient, weathered wall and the wild, untouched surroundings captures a unique sense of tranquility and nostalgia.
Thrilling Adventure: The adventurous will relish the hiking opportunities along the Jiankou section. Over time, the towers melted into mounds of rubble. It's renowned for its steep, crumbling pathways, overgrown vegetation, and daunting ascents, promising an adrenaline-filled experience.
Zhengguan Terrace: The Zhengguan Terrace is a large platform that served as a command center for the military. It has a unique design and offers a great vantage point for taking in the scenery.
Photography Paradise: Jiankou is a journey back in time. Its unrestored state provides an authentic insight into how the Great Wall might have looked hundreds of years ago. It's a poignant reminder of the architectural prowess and military strategy of ancient China.
Historical Journey: If you're a photography enthusiast, Jiankou will not disappoint. With its challenging terrain and striking views, it provides exceptional photographic opportunities. It has perhaps the most frequent appearance on picture books and postcards of the Great Wall.
Fewer Crowds: As Jiankou is relatively less-known and more challenging to hike, it sees fewer tourists than other sections. This means that you can enjoy a more serene and intimate experience with this colossal monument.
2 Days Beijing Great Wall Day & Night Tour to Mutianyu & Simatai2 Days Wild Beijing Great Wall Hiking Tour: Gubeikou, Jinshanling, Simatai West3 Days In-depth Beijing Great Wall Hiking Tour: Jiankou to Mutianyu & Gubeikou-Jianshanling-Simatai4 Days Beijing Tour: City Highlights, Great Wall Night Views & Gubei Water Tour
Jiankou to Mutianyu Hiking - A Popular Great Wall Hiking Route
The Jiankou Great Wall extends 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the Ox Horn Edge Wall to the Nine-Eye Tower, passing through the Beijing Knot and connecting Mutianyu in the east and Huanghuacheng in the west.
Jiankou hiking routes are usually divided into two directions: the north side of Arrow Nock and the south side of Arrow Nock, which is a steep V-shaped notch between two peaks. The north route (to Huanghuacheng) is the most difficult part to conquer due to its dangerous stretches of wall, including "Sky Ladder", "The Eagles Flies Facing Upward", and "Beijing Knot". The south route (to Mutianyu) is a more popular route with less steep terrain compared to the north route, but it still requires a good level of fitness. It allows you hike from the rugged and untouched Jiankou section of the Great Wall to the well-restored beauty of the Mutianyu section.
Jiankou to Mutianyu Hiking Route:
Xizhazi Village - Zhengbei Tower ( the highest point) - Ox Horn Edge Wall ( the most difficult part) - Mutianyu
Distance: 10KM AvgTime: 4-5 hoursDifficulty: This route is considered moderate to challenging.Note: It requires a decent fitness level, and an experienced hiker and is not recommended for the elderly or children.
Terrain Condition:
The Jiankou section is unrestored and wild, meaning the path can be challenging. Hikers will encounter steep, rugged slopes, some of which are covered in loose rock and gravel. Over time, the towers melted into mounds of rubble, and parts of the wall might be crumbled or missing. The rugged terrain and steep inclines can be slippery, especially in rainy weather.
Best Time to Visit Jiankou Great Wall
Jiankou can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during spring and fall when the weather is ideal for hiking. Winter can also be a good option with clear skies, but the hike can be difficult due to frozen snow and ice. On the other hand, summer can be hot and hazy, making it less favorable for hiking.
How to Get to Jiankou Great Wall from Beijing
Jiankou Great Wall is located approximately 80 km from Beijing, about 2.5 hours' drive from Beijing.
Option 1: Public Transportation (Not Accessible)
There is no direct public transportation to Jiankou from downtown Beijing.
Option 2: Take a Taxi (Not Recommended)
Jiankou is located in a mountainous area, and there are no clear road signs. Even if you take a taxi, you will still need to spend 1-2 hours climbing up a narrow path through a forest when you arrive at Xizhazi Village. Travelers who are unfamiliar with the area could get lost. It's almost impossible to get there on your own.
Option 3: Guided Tour (Highly Recommended)
Consider booking a guided tour, which includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, and possibly meals. This is the most hassle-free way to explore Jiankou Great Wall, and Asia Odyssey Travel can provide an experienced hiking guide throughout your journey.
How to Plan a Great Wall Hiking Tour
Planning a Great Wall hiking tour can seem like a daunting task at first glance. To make it easy, Asia Odyssey Travel has handpicked three of the most popular hiking routes for different preferences and skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge or a casual traveler looking to soak in the beauty and history of the Great Wall, Asia Odyssey Travel has got you covered.
1. Most Challenging Section - Jiankou to Mutianyu: Difficult
This route is for thrill-seekers and seasoned hikers looking for a challenge. It takes you through some of the most rugged, steep, and unrestored sections of the Great Wall, providing a raw and authentic experience. The hike takes about 4-5 hours, covering a 10km trek.
2. Most Rural and Historical Section - Gubeikou to Jinshanling: Moderate
Perfect for history buffs and those wanting to escape the city's hustle and bustle, this route offers a trip through time. It takes you from Gubeikou, a less touristy section abundant with historical sites, to Jinshanling, known for its beautifully preserved watchtowers and broad views. This hike is a moderate challenge and can take 4-5 hours, covering a 10km trek.
3. Most Photogenic Section - Jinshanling to Simatai West: Easy
This route is a paradise for photographers. Both Jinshanling and Simatai West sections offer some of the Great Wall's best views, with their well-preserved structures set against stunning natural scenery. The hike is moderate and takes about 3-4 hours, covering a 5km trek.
Tips for Jiankou Great Wall Hiking
Given the "wild" nature of Jiankou section, it's essential to adequately prepare. Here are some vital tips to ensure a safe hiking experience:
1.Gear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in layers. Carry a raincoat or umbrella.2.Supplies: Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks.3.Protection: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent as needed.4.Guidance: Consider hiring a local guide for a richer experience and safer navigation.5.Weather: Check the forecast before you go and prepare accordingly.6.Accessories: Battery, phone, camera, GPS7.Respect the wall: Take all trash with you and avoid the further damages.
Explore Beijing & Great Wall with Asia Odyssey Travel
Based in China with our office located in Beijing, our local team at Asia Odyssey Travel provides the best service to ensure an authentic and unforgettable experience for those who want to visit Beijing. We offer a variety of carefully designed Beijing tours, including Classic Beijing Tours, Great Wall Tours, Hutong Tours, Layover Tours, and Visa-free Tours, that cater to your needs and desires. Whether you prefer a private tours with a flexible itinerary or a budget-friendly group tours without compromising on quality, Asia Odyssey Travel has a tour to suit you, ensuring that your journey to Beijing is an enjoyable vacation.
lf you're looking to extend your Beijing trip into a longer vacation, Asia Odyssey Travel also offers a range of inspiring ideas through our China Tours from Beijing. Our professional travel consultants are ready to help you customize a tailor-made Beijing tour at the best local price. Don't hesitate to contact us to start planning your dream trip to Beijing today!
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