Zijinguan Pass

Zijingguan Pass

Summary – Why Visit Zijingguan (紫荆关)

The Zijingguan (Zijing Pass) Great Wall is one of the most important passes in China’s heartland, alongside with Juyong Pass and Daoma Pass. With Juma River at its foot flowing swiftly to the north, Zijingguan occupies an strategic position as an important gateway to Huanbei Pingyuan (North China Plain).

‘Zijing’ is translated as Chinese redbud, and Zijingguan got its name because there were large amounts of Chinese redbuds blooming all over the mountains. Over 140 battles took place here throughout history. The water and mountains together with the walls form a magnificient scenery.

Features

History: The Zijingguan Great Wall was originally built in the Spring and Autumn and the Warring States Period (770 BC-221 BC). It was called Shanggu Pass (上谷关) in the Qin (221 BC - 206 BC) and Han (206 BC - 220) Dynasties. In the Jin Dynasty (265 - 420) it was renamed Zijingguan. Extensive restoration and reconstruction was made during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

Dimensions: The structures visitors see today were built during the Ming Dynasty. It has walls on the east, west and north sides, with the north wall overlooking Juma River, creating an impenetrable stronghold. The total length of the walls at Zijingguan measures 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles). There are altogether 9 city gates, 4 water gates, and 19 battlements.

Travel Essentials

When to go

The scenery of the Great Wall varies with the seasons and each season has its pros and cons. Click here for what you can expect on the Great Wall near Beijing.

Great Wall Tours

Great Wall Tours
One-Day Great Wall Tours from $87*
Include transport, entry, tour guide and lunch.
4-Day Essence of Beijing Tour A from $445*
See the top sights of Beijing, including the Great Wall at Mutianyu.
6-Day Great Wall Hiking Around Beijing Tour from $885*
Includes Mutianyu, Gubeikou, Jinshanling, Simatai and Huangya Pass.
8-Day Essence of China Tour – Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai from $1463*
See the top sights of China’s Golden Triangle, including the Great Wall at Mutianyu.
more Great Wall Tours
*Prices based on 2 persons

Transport
Zijingguan is located about 45 km (28 miles) from Yixian County, Baoding City in Hebei Province, or 200 km (124 miles) southwest of Beijing (about 4 hours’ journey). China Highlights use high-quality air-conditioned private transport to take the hassle out of getting to the wall.

Walking Conditions
The steps of the Great Wall at Zijingguan are rather steep, and at some points out of repair. There is not any cable cars or climbing aid facilities at the Zijingguan Great Wall.

What to Wear
Dress for hiking and dress for the weather. Choose comfortable footwear with good grip and support for the feet. Layers of clothes that can be taken on and off allow for greater comfort and temperature control.

Wear/bring sun protection in the summer and dress for sub zero temperatures in the winter. It can feel much colder on the wall than down in the valleys because of altitude and exposure.

What to Bring
Bring breathable waterproofs for protection from rain and wind. Umbrellas may be used here as the ascents and descents are not difficult, but may be inconvenient in strong winds. Bring snacks and water if you want to walk a long portion of the wall.

Nearby Attractions

West Mausoleums of the Qing Dynasty, Mancheng Tomb

If you want to see more of the Great Wall near Beijing, see here for a list of the sections.
There are also many attractions to see in Beijing City and attractions to see in Baoding City.