Jinshanling Great Wall (金山岭长城) is one of the most scenic and less-crowded sections of the Great Wall of China, offering a more tranquil and immersive experience compared to other famous sections. Among its various routes, the East Route stands out as the most spectacular, with a series of towers, stunning views, and challenging hikes, while the West Route is shorter, relatively flat, and has fewer enemy towers (only eight, with the endpoint being the West Six-Eye Tower). This guide will take you through the key highlights of the East Route, including the best entry points, landmarks, and tips for a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Key Landmarks on the East Route
The East Route begins at the Middle Gate entrance, specifically at the Brick Wall Tower (砖垛口). From here, visitors can follow the route eastward, passing through several key landmarks:
- Si Fang Tai (四方台): A distinctive square tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- General Tower (将军楼): Known for its strategic importance and great photo opportunities.
- Sha Ling Kou (沙岭口): A key point where the trail diverges for those not planning to complete the entire East Route.
- Xiao Jinshan Lou (小金山楼): The lower cable car station and a convenient spot for those seeking an easier ascent.
- Da Jinshan Lou (大金山楼): One of the larger towers along the route, offering impressive views.
- Hou Chuan Kou (后川口): Another alternative exit for visitors who wish to leave the trail early.
- Hua Lou (花楼): A beautiful, flower-covered tower with vibrant scenery around.
- Guan Jiao Lou (拐角楼): A unique tower that marks a sharp turn in the wall.
- Dong Wu Yan Lou (东五眼楼): This tower is where the East Route officially ends for visitors, with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
- Qi Lin Lou (麒麟楼): A significant tower known for the “Qilin Shadow Wall” (麒麟影壁) on its roof, though the stairs to the top are no longer in service.
- Hu Ding Lou (壶顶楼): Another impressive tower along the East Route.
- The “Text Brick Wall” (文字砖墙): A distinctive feature found between Qi Lin Lou and Hu Ding Lou, with inscriptions carved into the brick walls.
The East Route officially ends at Heng Gou Lou (横沟楼), which offers distant views of Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城). However, this section of the wall, as marked on the tourist map, is not open for general visits. There has been some debate about the exact boundary between Jinshanling and Simatai, but Heng Gou Lou serves as a widely accepted endpoint for the East Route.
Best Hiking Route on the East Line
While there are several entry points and pathways, it’s best to avoid taking the small detours, especially the steep climb from East Gate to Dong Wu Yan Lou (东五眼楼). This route is incredibly strenuous and may tire you out before even reaching the wall itself. Instead, it’s highly recommended to start your hike from the Middle Gate via the Brick Wall Tower (砖垛口), as this is the main access point and the most gentle ascent to the Great Wall. This route is much less taxing on the legs and provides ample opportunities to enjoy the Great Wall’s stunning views without exhausting yourself.
For those who don’t want to complete the entire East Route, Sha Ling Kou (沙岭口) and Hou Chuan Kou (后川口) offer convenient midway exits. These are perfect for visitors who may not have the stamina for the full journey or those who want to explore specific sections of the wall without committing to the entire hike. From Xiao Jinshan Lou (小金山楼), you can take the cable car to the top, which is ideal for those with limited mobility or those who simply prefer a more relaxed experience.
Distance and Duration
The full East Route typically takes about 5 to 6 hours to complete, depending on factors like personal fitness, walking speed, and the amount of time spent taking photos or resting along the way. The East Route offers a blend of moderate to challenging terrain, so it’s important to pace yourself. If you’re not in a rush, there’s no need to hurry — after all, the purpose of the visit is to enjoy the beauty of the Great Wall!
Cable Car Option
For visitors who prefer a more leisurely experience, the cable car at Xiao Jinshan Lou (小金山楼) provides a convenient way to access the wall without the physical exertion of hiking. The cable car operates daily until 4:00 PM, and is particularly helpful for those who want to see the Great Wall but may have difficulty walking or climbing.
If you’re starting your hike from the Middle Gate, the route is quite straightforward and not overly steep. It’s a great option for those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Wall without the strenuous effort of tackling steeper parts of the East Route.
Tips for Visiting Jinshanling East Route
- Pace Yourself: The East Route is an adventure, so take your time. Enjoy the view, stop for photos, and don’t rush.
- Avoid Steep Paths: If you’re not in top physical condition, consider avoiding the steeper paths like the one leading from East Gate to Dong Wu Yan Lou.
- Cable Car: Use the cable car at Xiao Jinshan Lou if you want to skip the tough climbs, or if you just need a break.
- Time Management: Starting early in the day will give you enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The full hike generally takes 5-6 hours.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Hiking shoes are recommended as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially if you plan to walk the entire East Route. The climb can be taxing, so staying hydrated is key.