Beijing: Juyongguan Great Wall, Sacred Way & Ming Tombs Trip

If you’re looking to experience some of Beijing’s most iconic yet less touristy sights in one well-organized day, this tour offers a compelling option. It’s a full 8-hour journey that takes you beyond the crowds to explore the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall, the Sacred Way, and the Ming Tombs—three UNESCO World Heritage Sites packed with stories and history. What we love about this experience is the combination of less crowded sites, which means fewer selfie sticks and more space to soak in the scenery, along with expert guides who bring history alive with their stories.

One of the biggest perks is the depth of insight you gain into China’s dynastic past, especially the Ming Dynasty, all while enjoying authentic local food. However, if you’re not keen on a long day of sightseeing, this might feel a bit intense. It’s best suited for those eager to see a broader slice of Beijing’s historical landscape, especially if visiting the Great Wall and Ming Tombs in one trip is on your list.

Key Points

• Less Crowded Sections: Juyongguan offers a quieter, more authentic experience of the Great Wall.
• Rich Cultural Context: The Sacred Way’s statues and Fengshui tips shed light on Chinese traditions.
• Deep Dive into Ming Dynasty: The Ming Tombs and underground palace showcase imperial history.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding and engagement.
• Authentic Food & Local Vibe: Lunch at a local restaurant provides a tasty break and cultural flavor.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transport and hotel pickup make for a seamless day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect From Start to Finish

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup & Journey to Juyongguan

Your day begins with a hotel pickup handled smoothly by your English-speaking guide. The drive to Juyongguan takes about 1.5 hours, giving you the chance to settle in and get a primer on what’s ahead. Along the way, your guide will share stories and historical tidbits, making the drive as informative as the sites you’ll visit.

Exploring Juyongguan Great Wall

Once you arrive at the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall, you’ll notice right away that it’s less crowded than Badaling or Mutianyu. This choice of location means you can wander without the endless crowds, and really get a feel for the scale and strategic importance of this part of the Wall.

Your guide will lead you up and down the various watchtowers, explaining their different functions—and you’ll love the chance to compare the construction style and views at different points. This stretch of the Wall was built with structures serving various logistical and military purposes, giving you a sense of how it functioned historically.

Lunch — A Taste of Local Flavors

After working up an appetite, you’ll stop at a local restaurant for lunch. Many reviews highlight the quality and authenticity of the food, often including traditional Chinese dishes like dumplings, with some guides even making special arrangements to suit dietary preferences such as vegetarian options. This break not only refuels you but also deepens your connection to local life.

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Sacred Way & Ming Tombs

Post-lunch, your next stop is the Sacred Way, a path lined with marble statues of animals and officials dating back over 500 years. These figures are fascinating relics, showcasing Chinese art, religious beliefs, and Fengshui principles. Many visitors find walking this ancient path to be a highlight—it’s as if you’re strolling through a living history lesson.

Your guide will explain how Fengshui influenced the placement of graves and the layout of the Ming Tombs, adding cultural depth to what might otherwise seem just a series of tombs.

Dingling Underground Palace

Next, you’ll explore the Dingling Tomb, the most significant of the Ming tombs, where Emperor Wanli and his two empresses are buried. The construction took just six years starting in 1584, a remarkable feat for such a grand site. Walking into the underground palace, you’ll see the massive chambers and can view treasures recovered from the tomb’s underground vault.

Many reviews note the treasures displayed in the museum—a treasure trove of jade, ceramics, and relics that provide a glimpse into imperial life. The underground chambers give a dramatic sense of the scale and sophistication of Ming Dynasty tomb architecture.

Returning to Your Hotel

After a full day of exploration, your private vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel, bringing all the comfort of a tailored experience. This convenience makes the day accessible even after a long day of sightseeing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price of $134 per person, this tour balances cost and content well. It includes private transport, an English-speaking guide, and lunch, which many similar tours charge separately for. The sites visited are less crowded, which enhances the experience—no long lines, no pushing through crowds, just authentic sightseeing.

Guides like Lily, Lisa, and Judy have earned glowing reviews for their knowledge and friendliness, which can make a significant difference in understanding and enjoying the sites. Many customers mention that their guides shared stories about China’s decades of change, local life, and cultural nuances, making the trip not just about history but also about understanding modern China.

The sites themselves—Juyongguan, the Sacred Way, and the Ming Tombs—are highlights of Beijing that often get overshadowed by the Forbidden City or the Great Wall at Mutianyu. This tour’s focus on these lesser-visited spots offers a more authentic, peaceful experience and a deeper appreciation of Chinese imperial history.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who prefers a laid-back pace but still wants a comprehensive look at Beijing’s ancient sites, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for history buffs, cultural travelers, or anyone curious about Ming Dynasty architecture and traditions. The private group format ensures a personalized experience, with guides eager to answer questions and tailor details to your interests.

However, be prepared for a long day—starting early and ending in the evening—and the walking involved at each site. If you’re after a quick overview or have limited mobility, you might want to consider a shorter or different tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, your guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel for a seamless start to your day.

What should I bring?
You’ll need to carry your passport for entrance and identification purposes, especially at the tombs.

How long is the drive between sites?
The drive from Beijing to Juyongguan takes about 1.5 hours, and the entire day involves several site visits, so expect some travel time.

Are entrance fees included?
If you opt for the package tour, yes, entrance fees are included. If you choose the basic option, they are not included and need to be paid separately.

What is the food like during the tour?
Lunch is in a local restaurant, often praised for authentic flavors and a chance to try traditional dishes like dumplings. Special dietary requests, like vegetarian options, are sometimes available.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so guides generally accommodate your interests and pace, making it easier to focus on what excites you most.

Is this tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
While the sites are outdoor and involve some walking, the pace is flexible, and private transport makes it manageable for most travelers—just check your mobility needs.

In The Sum Up

This tour offers a compelling way to see Beijing’s less touristy yet historically significant sites in one day. The expert guides, authentic experiences, and comfortable transportation combine to create a memorable journey through China’s Ming Dynasty and ancient fortress landscapes. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want more than just the crowds, seeking a deeper connection with China’s past in a well-organized, value-packed package.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those who appreciate a personalized touch, this trip balances educational content with authentic local flavor. If you’re ready for a full, immersive day that captures the spirit of Beijing beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone revisiting China’s capital, it offers a meaningful, manageable way to explore Beijing’s ancient sites—without sacrificing comfort or insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: