How to Visit Ming Tombs in Beijing

How to Visit Ming Tombs in Beijing

Are Ming Tombs Worth Visiting?

Before discussing how to visit the Ming Tombs, many wonder if they are worth the trip. Opinions vary widely: some dislike them, others find them average, and some consider them a must-see. For many, visiting the Ming Tombs is less significant than the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and the Great Wall. However, I believe they are worth a glance, especially if combined with a visit to the Great Wall or Summer Palace, as they are easily accessible en route.

Additionally, as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ming Tombs offer a genuine historical experience, making them popular among native Chinese tourists.

Travel Tips for Visiting Ming Tombs

Tip 1: Basic Knowledge

The Ming Tombs refer to the 13 tombs where 13 out of the 16 emperors of the Ming Dynasty were buried (1368 – 1644 AD). The founder, Zhu Yuanzhang, is buried in Nanjing, while Zhu Yunwen and Zhu Qiyu are buried elsewhere. Currently, only three tombs—Dingling, Changling, and Zhaoling—are open to the public.

Tip 2: Which Tomb to Visit?

Since the three tombs are quite far apart, you may only have time to visit one:

Dingling: Known as the Underground Palace, it’s the only excavated tomb, featuring a long staircase leading to burial caskets.
Changling: The largest tomb, it houses artifacts and valuables but has not been excavated. The grand hall is worth visiting.
Zhaoling: Not recommended, as it is nearly renovated.

If you have mobility issues, opt for Changling instead of Dingling.

Tip 3: Explore the Sacred Way

The highlight of a Ming Tombs visit is the Sacred Way, lined with centuries-old stone statues of animals and officials. This 800-meter pathway leads into the tomb complex, showcasing impressive historical figures.

Tip 4: Admission Fees and Opening Hours

Dingling Tomb: RMB 40 (Nov 1 – Mar 31); RMB 60 (Apr 1 – Oct 31)
Changling Tomb: RMB 30 (Nov 1 – Mar 31); RMB 45 (Apr 1 – Oct 31)
Zhaoling Tomb: RMB 20 (Nov 1 – Mar 31); RMB 30 (Apr 1 – Oct 31)
Sacred Way: RMB 25 (Nov 1 – Mar 31); RMB 35 (Apr 1 – Oct 31)

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM for all sites.

Tip 5: How to Get There

The Ming Tombs are located in Changping District, about 50km north of Beijing.

Public Transport:

Take Bus 872 from Deshengmen Bus Terminal in downtown Beijing.
Bus 872 Timetable: First Bus: 9:15 AM; Last Bus: 4:15 PM.

Self-Driving: Use GPS to follow the G6 Beijing-Tibet Expressway to Changping.

Tip 6: Plan Your Visit

Consider incorporating your visit to the Ming Tombs with other attractions, like the Summer Palace or one of the Great Wall sections (Juyongguan, Badaling, or Mutianyu) for a day trip.

Tip 7: Avoid Public Holidays and Weekends

The Ming Tombs attract many local visitors, especially on weekends and public holidays. Expect crowds and be cautious when navigating the staircases at Dingling.

Tip 8: Bus 879 Between Dingling and Badaling Great Wall

For travelers wishing to move between the Ming Tombs and Badaling Great Wall:

From Dingling to Badaling: First Bus: 8:00 AM; Last Bus: 4:00 PM; Bus Fare: 9 yuan.
From Badaling to Dingling: First Bus: 9:30 AM; Last Bus: 5:30 PM; Bus Fare: 9 yuan.