The Jiankou section of the Great Wall is one of the most striking and unforgettable stretches of this world wonder, celebrated for its dramatic scenery and rugged, untamed beauty. Unlike the more restored and tourist-friendly sections near Beijing, Jiankou retains much of its wild character, offering an authentic encounter with history and nature side by side.
Here, the mountains rise in dramatically varied shapes—steep ridges, jagged cliffs, and soaring peaks that create a powerful backdrop for the Wall as it snakes across the landscape. The Wall itself seems even more majestic in this setting, clinging to sheer precipices with daring precision, as if defying gravity. The name “Jiankou,” meaning “Arrow Nock,” comes from the unique formation of the surrounding peaks. From above, the Wall meanders in a bold “W” shape, resembling a bow fully drawn with an arrow ready to release—a powerful symbol of strength and defense.
Built during the Ming Dynasty, Jiankou has long been considered one of the most challenging and treacherous sections of the Great Wall. Its watchtowers perch on knife-edged ridgelines, and its steep inclines demand both stamina and spirit. Yet it is precisely this ruggedness that gives Jiankou its unrivaled charm. Every turn of the trail reveals a new vantage point: a panoramic sweep of mountains fading into the horizon, a weathered stone tower standing against the winds of centuries, or a narrow passageway that makes you feel like an explorer rediscovering forgotten history.
While Jiankou is famed for its difficulty, your safety and comfort come first. We will carefully select a safe and suitable route, allowing you to enjoy the Wall’s raw beauty without unnecessary risk. Guided by experienced locals, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the adventure with complete peace of mind.
As the day draws to a close, the experience reaches its highlight: camping overnight on the Great Wall itself. After setting up tents along this wild section, you’ll enjoy a warm, hearty meal to refuel from the day’s hike. As night falls, the crowds are long gone, leaving behind silence broken only by the wind rustling through the mountains. Under a canopy of stars, with the ancient stones of the Wall beneath you and the silhouettes of mountains stretching endlessly into the distance, you’ll feel the timeless spirit of this place.
This is more than just a hike—it is an immersion into the soul of the Great Wall. By day, Jiankou challenges and inspires with its grandeur; by night, it transforms into a serene, almost mystical sanctuary where history, nature, and the cosmos come together. For many, this overnight stay becomes the defining memory of their journey to China—a once-in-a-lifetime chance to not only walk on the Great Wall, but to live on it, if only for a night.
The Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall is one of the most unique and picturesque stretches you can visit. Unlike most other parts of the Wall, here it runs alongside a shimmering lake, creating a breathtaking reflection of the ancient stones against the water. What makes it truly special is that a portion of the Wall is actually submerged beneath the lake’s surface, the result of a man-made reservoir built during the Ming Dynasty. This gives visitors a rare opportunity to see history blending with nature—towering walls climbing the green hills while hidden battlements sleep beneath the calm waters. Strolling along the lakeside, you’ll enjoy peaceful scenery with fewer crowds, making it an ideal place to capture both the majesty and the serenity of the Great Wall.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch in the local restaurants
Bottled Water: Unlimited