A Must-See for History Buffs! The Ultimate Guide to Shanhaiguan

🌄 Between the mountains and the sea stands this ancient fortress carrying a thousand years of history—Shanhaiguan. Every brick and tile tells a story of the past, and each attraction feels like a slice of history worth savoring. Come with me to unlock its charm! 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions 1. The First Pass Under Heaven: The eastern starting point of the Great Wall and the masterpiece of the Ming Great Wall military system. Climb the Zhendong Tower for a panoramic view of the fortress. Touching the city bricks that are over 600 years old, you can almost feel the spirit of ancient warriors. I recommend joining the "Pass-Breaking Ceremony" at the scenic area—wear Hanfu, receive a pass permit, and immerse yourself in the Ming dynasty border defense culture. Perfect for photos! 2. Laolongtou (Old Dragon’s Head): The only place where the Great Wall meets the sea, truly where "the Great Wall connects with the sea and sky"! Stroll along the stone city by the sea, with roaring waves beneath your feet and the boundless Bohai Sea in the distance—an indescribable awe. Climb the Chenghailou to admire plaques and stele forests left by Ming and Qing emperors and scholars, feeling the blend of history and nature. 3. Jiaoshan Great Wall: Known as "The First Mountain of the Great Wall," here you can see the majestic Great Wall winding through the mountains. If you're lucky, you might catch the mist swirling around, creating a fairyland-like scene. For the fit and adventurous, hiking up offers stunning views along the way; for a more relaxed experience, take the Love Cable Car and enjoy the spectacular sight of the Great Wall hanging between the mountains from above. 4. Shanhaiguan Ancient City: Home to many Ming and Qing style buildings and ancient streets, walking here is full of local life and atmosphere. Visit the Wang Family Courtyard to experience the life of Ming and Qing officials, explore the General’s Office to learn about the Ming military command center, and climb the Bell and Drum Tower to hear the morning and evening bells that have echoed for centuries. At night, don’t miss the "One Pass Night Show," where digital light and shadow technology vividly reenacts the "Battle of Yipianshi" between Li Zicheng and Wu Sangui, with interactive performances that transport you back to that dramatic history. 🍱 Food Recommendations 1. Hun Guo: A Shanhaiguan specialty originating from Qing dynasty imperial banquets, this local intangible cultural heritage dish features a copper pot base of pickled cabbage and kelp, topped with pork belly, steamed jelly, meatballs, seafood, and more, all poured over with rich bone broth. Dip it in chive flowers, fermented tofu, or sesame sauce for a fresh and delicious taste that warms both body and heart. Recommended is "Shangguan Duor," an old shop praised by CCTV. 2. Pu Luo Leaf Cake: Made by wrapping fillings in pu luo leaves and steaming them, available in meat and peanut brown sugar flavors, with a unique plant fragrance and soft, chewy texture. The peanut brown sugar filling from "Ancient City Pu Luo Leaf Cake Shop" is a favorite for many. 3. Huiji Mung Bean Cake: A century-old brand, these mung bean cakes have a delicate texture that melts in your mouth, with moderate sweetness—not overly sugary—making them great souvenirs. 📅 Itinerary Suggestions • One-day tour: The First Pass Under Heaven - Laolongtou - Shanhaiguan Ancient City (enjoy local food and watch the "One Pass Night Show") • Two-day tour: Day 1: The First Pass Under Heaven - Laolongtou - stay in an ancient city guesthouse and savor local cuisine; Day 2: Jiaoshan Great Wall - Meng Jiangnu Temple - return trip • Three-day tour: Day 1: The First Pass Under Heaven - Laolongtou - stay in an ancient city guesthouse; Day 2: Shanhaiguan Ancient City - Jiaoshan Great Wall - watch the "One Pass Night Show"; Day 3: Meng Jiangnu Temple - Le Island Ocean Kingdom (great for families or couples) - watch the sunset at Laolongtou Beach 📍 Practical Information 1. Transportation: ◦ External: It’s recommended to take the high-speed train directly to Shanhaiguan Station, about 2 hours from Beijing; if flying, arrive at Beidaihe Airport and then take a taxi about 1 hour to Shanhaiguan. ◦ Internal: Bus routes 13 and 25 reach the main attractions, and shared bikes are convenient for getting around the ancient city. Bus routes may change, so check the "Qinhuangdao Bus" WeChat official account before traveling. 2. Tickets: You can buy a combined ticket for "The First Pass Under Heaven + Laolongtou + Meng Jiangnu Temple" for 120 RMB, which is more cost-effective than buying tickets separately. Students and seniors over 60 with valid ID enjoy half-price discounts. 3. Accommodation: To experience local flavor, choose guesthouses inside the ancient city, such as "Daming Shuai Mansion," featuring Ming and Qing culture; for quality, "Xianting Calligraphy Hotel" is a good choice with calligraphy-themed activities; for great value, "Shanhai Holiday Hotel" offers a siheyuan (courtyard house) style and is close to the attractions. Shanhaiguan is not just a trip, but a dialogue with history. Come and unveil its mysterious veil!