Ming Tombs

Ming Tombs

(北京市明十三陵景区 běi jīng shì míng shí sān líng jǐng qū )

The Ming Tombs, which form a group of mausoleums, are those of 13 emperors in the Ming Dynasty (1368~1644). The tombs lie at the foot of Tianshou Mountain, in Changping District, about 50 kilometers(31 miles) from the urban area. They cover an area of about 120 square kilometers.

Screened on the northwest by the lofty Yanshan Mountains, they sit on a small basin formed by floods; water flowing down the ravines meets on the plain and meanders to the east. Magnificent cemetery buildings with red walls, yellow tiles, upturning eaves stand on the eastern, western and northern slopes.

In particular, the mausoleum of Emperor Chengzu lies in the center of the northern slope, which is flanked by the other twelve. The general layout conveys a solemn, harmonious order of importance, which is accentuated by the mountains and rivers.

Among the mausoleums, the largest is the Chang Mausoleum while the smallest is the Si Mausoleum, but all of them were roughly built in the same manner. They form a group, yet each of them stands alone as an independent unit. The Ming Tombs are characterized by its large size, complete system, and intact preservation.

As the representative of ancient Chinese imperial mausoleums, they reflect the richness of traditional Chinese culture, with very high historic and cultural value. Entirely forbidden in the past, they are now a tourist attraction famous both home and abroad.

Currently, four spots are officially opened to the public, namely the Ding Mausoleum, the Chang Mausoleum, the Zhao Mausoleum and the General Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs.

Scenic Spot Level: AAAAA

Ideal Sightseeing Season: March to November

Open Hours:

Ticket Prices:

Note：

Students (excluding graduate students), seniors elder than 60,minors between 6 and 18 years old and active duty military personnel: Half price with a valid ID

Children under 120cm in height and the disabled: Free of charge with a valid certificate (free tickets may be collected at the Tourist Center by presenting a certificate).

Website: http://www.mingtombs.com/e_home/

Address: Changchi Road,Shisanling Town, Changping District, Beijing

1. Smoking and lighting fire are strictly prohibited to conserve the cultural relics and prevent fires.

2. Be care not to skid when raining or snowing and follow the staff members’ directions.

3. Superstitious and pornographic activities are prohibited. Dangerous articles and animals are forbidden to take into the scenic spot.