The First Pass Under Heaven: Traveling Through 600 Years to Explore the Legendary Tales of Shanhaiguan

🏯 The Majestic Pass Between Mountain and Sea – A Poetic Journey Through History: An In-Depth Shanhaiguan Travel Guide If you're fascinated by history and culture, and love exploring ancient architecture and relics, Shanhaiguan is the perfect destination for you! Here, you’ll find not only the magnificent Great Wall but also an ancient town brimming with charm, transporting you back in time to experience the weight and grandeur of history. 🚗【Transportation Guide】 • External Transportation: ◦ High-Speed Rail: Take a high-speed train directly to Shanhaiguan Station from major cities across China. From Beijing, the journey takes just about 2 hours, with frequent departures for convenience. ◦ Flight: Fly to Beidaihe Airport, then take an airport shuttle or taxi to Shanhaiguan (approx. 1-hour drive). • Local Transportation: ◦ Bus: Routes like No. 13 and No. 25 cover most major attractions. Fares are affordable, but check the operating hours. ◦ Shared Bikes: Cycling through the ancient town is a fantastic way to get around—free, relaxing, and perfect for stopping to admire the scenery. 🏞【Must-Visit Attractions】 1. The First Pass Under Heaven: The eastern starting point of the Great Wall, with over 600 years of history. Climb Zhenglou Tower for a panoramic view of the pass, touch the ancient bricks, and feel the grandeur of this "unparalleled key to the two capitals." Don’t miss the "Pass-Crossing Ceremony," where you can dress in Hanfu and receive a replica of an ancient travel document for an immersive Ming Dynasty border defense experience. Ticket: ¥50/person. Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM. 2. Laolongtou (Old Dragon’s Head): The only section of the Ming Great Wall that extends into the sea. Visit the Sea-Stone Fortress and Chenghai Tower for breathtaking views of the Great Wall meeting the Bohai Sea. Ticket: ¥50/person. Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM. 3. Shanhaiguan Ancient Town: Stroll through the town to explore Wang Family Compound (a Ming-Qing official residence), the Commander’s Mansion (a Ming military headquarters), and listen to the morning bells and evening drums of the Bell and Drum Tower. Experience the charm of Ming-Qing architecture and the lively atmosphere of the ancient town. Open all day. 4. Jiaoshan Great Wall: Known as the "First Mountain of the Great Wall," hike to witness the "Upside-Down Great Wall" phenomenon. Visit Qixian Temple for a majestic view of the Great Wall merging with the Yanshan Mountains. For those with limited stamina, take the Love Cable Car (one-way ¥40). Ticket: ¥30/person. Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. 5. Meng Jiangnu Temple: Built to commemorate the legendary Meng Jiangnu, climb 108 steps to reflect on her tragic tale of weeping over the Great Wall. Admire the poetic couplet: "The tide ebbs and flows daily; the clouds gather and disperse endlessly." Ticket: ¥30/person. Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM. 🍱【Food Recommendations】 1. Hun Pot: A copper pot with pickled cabbage, layered with fresh pork belly, Bohai shrimp, and more, simmered in a secret bone broth. Dip in leek flower sauce or fermented tofu for a rich yet light flavor. Try "Shangguan Duo’er," a restaurant featured on CCTV. 2. Boluo Leaf Pancake: Steamed dumplings wrapped in fragrant boluo leaves, filled with savory or sweet fillings. The peanut-brown sugar version at "Ancient Town Boluo Leaf Pancake Shop" is a hit. 3. Sitiao Baozi: A famous bun shop on Sitiao Street, known for its thin wrappers and juicy fillings. The pork-and-scallion bun is a classic, but be prepared to queue! 4. Hui’s Mung Bean Cake: A century-old halal delicacy with a smooth, subtly sweet taste. Best served chilled and perfect as a souvenir. 🏠【Accommodation Tips】 1. Ancient Town Guesthouses: Like "Daming Shuai Fu," themed around Ming-Qing culture, coastal defense, folklore, and Great Wall trade. Each courtyard has a unique theme, with views of the Great Wall. Ideal for experiencing the town’s nightlife. Price: ¥200 - ¥800/night. 2. Luxury Hotels: "Xianting Calligraphy Hotel" offers breakfast, calligraphy-themed activities, elegant surroundings, and attentive service. Price: ¥500 - ¥1,500/night. 3. Budget Hotels: "Shanhai Holiday Hotel," in a courtyard style, is a 5-minute walk to attractions and great value. Price: ¥150 - ¥300/night. 📅【Itinerary Ideas】 • One-Day Trip: The First Pass Under Heaven (morning) → Laolongtou (afternoon) → Ancient Town Food Street (evening). • Two-Day Trip: Day 1: The First Pass → Great Wall Museum → Laolongtou → Stay in an ancient town guesthouse → Night stroll. Day 2: Jiaoshan Great Wall → Meng Jiangnu Temple → Shanhaiguan Ancient Town (food & souvenirs). • Three-Day Trip: Day 1: Arrive → The First Pass → Laolongtou → Night views. Day 2: Jiaoshan Great Wall → Meng Jiangnu Temple → Yansai Lake (boat ride). Day 3: Deep dive into the ancient town (Wang Family Compound, Commander’s Mansion) → Local cuisine → Departure. ❗【Practical Tips】 1. Save with combo tickets, e.g., "The First Pass + Laolongtou + Meng Jiangnu Temple" for ¥120 (discounts for students/seniors 60+). 2. For sunrise at Laolongtou, arrive early: summer 5:30-6:00 AM, winter 7:00-7:30 AM. 3. Drive carefully in the narrow ancient town streets; park in designated lots. 4. Summer: Sunscreen (strong UV by the sea). Winter: Bundle up—windy and icy paths; wear non-slip shoes.