Ming Tombs (Ming Shisan Ling)
- Admission:Free
11:44 AM Friday, May 25
Clear. Chilly.
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The Ming Tombs, or Ming Shisan Ling, are a gloomily impressive affair, often unpopular with Western tourists, who can find the whole experience a bit austere. But if you have a bit of imagination with which to conjure the past and concentrate on the Spirit Way, this can be a trip well worth making.
The Yongle Emperor, who caused the Forbidden City to be built, also chose the site for these Ming Tombs mausoleums. Back in the Ming era, this secluded valley north of Beijing was closed to visitors and heavily guarded. The ground was considered so sacred that not even an emperor could ride a horse there.
Three tombs are open to the public; only one, the Ding Ling, has been excavated (the somewhat disastrous results, with artifacts being badly damaged, discouraged further excavation). The other two tombs are more atmospheric.
The highlight of the experience is probably the Spirit Way, the long approach to the mausoleums. You'll notice it's slightly curved: this was to fool evil spirits, who can only travel in straight lines. There are marble pillars to act as beacons to the spirit and a series of guardian animals, including camels and the mythical qilin, often called the Chinese unicorn.
Latest Reviews All Ming Tombs (Ming Shisan Ling) Reviews »
Excellent trip! There were only 4 of is in this tour but it was still as good. The tour guide was very well versed in the history of the places and provided excellent info. Everything went smoothly. It's a must do for all tourist.
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the great wall was amazing and it was made so easy picked up and returned to the hotel the whole tour highly recommended thankyou again we love viator and will continue to use viator
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Excellent tour. With foreign tourists down over 80% since 2008, this tour through Viator was like a private tour for 6 + driver + English speaking guide. Guide was very informative and knowledgeable. With just 6 of us in the tour, we could ask a lot of questions to learn more of the city and culture. Lunch was excellent with lots to eat.
Continue Reading »Practical Info
If you want to go to the Ming Tombs under your own steam, take bus 919 from De Sheng Men Xi station, get off at Chang Ping Xi Guan station, and take bus no 314. Get off at Dingling Tomb or Changling Tomb station.
