Discover a 400-Year-Old Ming Dynasty Castle 100km West of Beijing

Skip the crowds at Badaling! Looking for a place with stunning scenery, rich history, and fewer people? Look no further than the Yanhecheng Ruins! Hidden in the mountains of Mentougou, west of Beijing, this Ming Dynasty fortress boasts over 400 years of history. As a vital part of the Ming Great Wall's defense system, it still evokes a sense of its glorious past despite its current state of ruin. 🎈【Transportation】 🚗 By car: Navigate to "Yanhecheng Ruins." It's about a 2-hour drive from downtown Beijing. 📸 【Things to Do】 1️⃣ Ancient City Walls: Approximately 1,000 meters of the original city walls remain, standing about 5 meters high and 3 meters wide. Constructed from stone blocks, they still exude an aura of grandeur despite their weathered state. 2️⃣ City Gate Ruins: Originally, the ancient city had two gates, east and west. Today, only the west gate ruins remain, with the inscription "Yanhecheng" faintly visible above the gate. 3️⃣ Ancient Opera Stage: Located in the village center, this Qing Dynasty stage served as a venue for local cultural events. 4️⃣ Ancient Dwellings: The village retains many Ming and Qing Dynasty houses, characterized by their blue bricks and gray tiles, creating a charming, antique atmosphere. 5️⃣ Panoramic Views: Ascend the city walls or nearby hillsides for breathtaking views of the village and surrounding mountains, offering a glimpse into the passage of time. 🎈【Travel Tips】 ✅ Yanhecheng Ruins are not yet fully developed, and some paths are rugged. Comfortable shoes are recommended. ✅ Accommodation options within the village are limited. A day trip is recommended. ✅ Please protect the cultural relics and refrain from graffiti or vandalism. 🌟【Nearby Attractions】 ✅ Cuandixia Village: Known as "Beijing's most beautiful village," it features well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty houses. ✅ Longmenjian Canyon: Famous for its waterfalls, pools, and canyons, it's a popular summer retreat near Beijing.