Two Wonders in One Day: A Guide to the Best Great Wall of China & Ming Tombs Tour
A trip to Beijing is a journey through millennia of history, and no landmark captures the imagination quite like the Great Wall of China. But just beyond the city lies another treasure trove of imperial history: the sacred Ming Tombs. For travelers short on time, seeing both can seem like a logistical puzzle.
Fortunately, we’ve found the perfect solution. This “Popular Pick” day tour is an expertly organized, all-in-one adventure that combines a walk on the world’s most iconic wall with an exploration of ancient imperial tombs. With over 600 reviews, this tour is the most efficient and enriching way to experience two of China’s UNESCO World Heritage sites in a single, hassle-free day.
Why This is the Ultimate Beijing Day Trip
Planning your Beijing itinerary for this weekend? Here’s why this comprehensive tour is the smartest choice for ticking off two of the biggest bucket-list items.
- Two UNESCO Sites in One Day: This tour’s greatest strength is its incredible efficiency. It combines a visit to the magnificent Great Wall at Badaling with the awe-inspiring Ming Tombs, saving you the time and stress of arranging separate trips.
- Completely Hassle-Free Logistics: From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel, everything is handled. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, and your professional English-speaking guide will take care of all tickets and navigation, leaving you free to simply enjoy the experience.
- Expert Historical Context: Don’t just see these amazing sites; understand them. Your guide will provide an “engaging narrative,” sharing the rich history of the Great Wall’s construction and the fascinating stories of the Ming emperors who are buried in the sacred valley.
- All-Inclusive Value: The tour includes not only your transportation and guide but also an authentic Chinese-style lunch and the admission tickets to both the Great Wall and the Ming Tombs, offering fantastic value and convenience.
Your 8-Hour Journey Through Chinese History: A Play-by-Play
Get ready for a day packed with iconic scenery and imperial secrets.
Morning: Departure from Beijing
Your day begins with a convenient pickup (around 7:30 AM) from your hotel (if it’s located within Beijing’s 4th ring road). Settle into your comfortable coach and enjoy the scenic drive out of the bustling city and into the rugged countryside.
The Main Event: The Great Wall at Badaling
Your first stop is the legendary Great Wall of China. You’ll visit the Badaling section, one of the best-preserved and most impressive parts of the structure. You’ll have approximately two hours to explore, with the opportunity to climb either the steeper North Face or the gentler South Face. Walk in the footsteps of ancient soldiers and marvel at the spectacular views as the wall snakes its way across the dramatic mountain landscape.
Midday: An Authentic Chinese Lunch
After your walk on the wall, you’ll appease your appetite with an included, authentic Chinese-style lunch. The break also includes a visit to the Longdi jade factory, where you can browse intricate goods and learn about the significance of jade in Chinese culture.
Afternoon: The Imperial Ming Tombs
Next, you’ll journey to the serene valley that holds the Ming Tombs, the burial grounds for 13 of the 16 Ming Dynasty emperors. You will explore the largest and earliest of the excavated sites, the magnificent Changling Tomb, and wander through its three impressive courtyards as your guide explains its history and architecture.
Evening: Return to Beijing
After a full day of exploration, you’ll relax on the comfortable coach ride back to your hotel, with a camera full of incredible photos and a deep appreciation for China’s rich history.
Key Details for Your Great Wall Adventure
- Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
- Sites Visited: The Great Wall of China (Badaling section) and the Ming Tombs (Changling Tomb).
- Tour Type: A comfortable, air-conditioned group coach tour.
What’s Included?
- Pick-up and drop-off services from the hotels located within 4th ring circle highway
- If your hotel is located out of 4th Ring Circle Highway, please go to Prime Hotel to join the tour at 07:00AM. (Add: No. 2, Wangfujing Ave. Tel: +86-10-65136666)
- Air-conditioned coach
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Chinese style lunch
- Admission tickets
Please Note: What’s Not Included?
- Cruise port pickup is not available
- Cable car fee
- Gratuities
Ready to Walk Through History?
Don’t just dream of the Great Wall, walk it. And don’t just see China’s history, immerse yourself in it. This all-in-one tour is the most efficient and enriching way to experience two of the nation’s greatest treasures.
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