Arrow Lock Great Wall
The Jiankou Great Wall, a raw and unrestored section of China’s Ming Dynasty defenses, is famed for its perilous terrain, dramatic "V"-shaped valleys, and weather-worn grandeur. Nicknamed "Arrow Nock" for its bow-like curve, this 20-kilometer stretch northwest of Beijing is a haven for hikers and photographers seeking unfiltered historical authenticity. Built between 1368–1644 and partially reconstructed in 1567, it showcases ancient military engineering at its most rugged, with crumbling watchtowers, steep ascents, and panoramic mountain vistas. Designated a priority preservation site by the Chinese government, it remains a testament to both human ingenuity and nature’s relentless reclamation.
Historical Overview
Construction of Jiankou began under the Ming Dynasty’s Hongwu Emperor, with major expansions in 1567 to fortify Beijing against Mongol incursions. Key historical milestones include:
- 16th Century: Reinforced with granite and brick, featuring strategic watchtowers like "Beijing Jie" (Beijing Knot), where three walls converge.
- 17th Century: Served as a critical battleground during the Qing Dynasty’s conquest of China.
- 2000s: Initiation of controlled restoration projects to stabilize towers while preserving its wild character.
- 2019: Limited public access introduced via guided tours to balance conservation and tourism.
Notable events include its role in the 1933 Battle of Rehe against Japanese forces and its emergence as a symbol of unfiltered heritage in the 21st century.
Structural Layout
Jiankou’s layout mirrors natural topography, blending human craft with mountainous challenges:
Watchtowers: Over 30 towers, including the iconic "Eagle Flies Facing Upward" (Yingfeidaoyang) and the collapsed "Sky Staircase" (Tianxian).
Defensive Features: Arrow loops, horse tracks, and a labyrinthine barrier hugging 900-meter cliffs.
- Key Sections:
Zhengbeilou: The highest tower (1,141m), offering 360-degree views.
Beijing Jie: A tri-junction of walls, marking Jiankou’s strategic importance.
Ox Horn Edge: A knife-edge ridge with 70-degree slopes.
Support structures include remnants of barracks and signal towers near Xizhazi Village.
Major Attractions
Eagle Flies Facing Upward: A near-vertical ascent with handholds carved into stone.
Beijing Jie: Where three walls intersect, forming a geographic and historical crossroads.
Sky Staircase: A collapsed stairway requiring scrambling over rubble (expert hikers only).
Zhengbeilou Tower: The highest point, with views of the "Sleeping Dragon" ridge.
Nine-Eye Tower: A rare nine-archway design, partially buried by landslides.
The Broken Tower: A crumbling relic overgrown with trees, symbolizing nature’s triumph.
Suggested Itineraries
- Novice Route (4–5 hours):
Xizhazi Village → Beijing Jie → Zhengbeilou → Return via the same path.
Highlights: Iconic towers, moderate elevation gains, and panoramic vistas.
- Adventure Route (6–7 hours):
Xizhazi Village → Eagle Flies Facing Upward → Sky Staircase → Ox Horn Edge → Jiankou Pass.
Highlights: Extreme terrain, unparalleled thrills, and expert-level challenges.
- Photography Route (Full Day):
Sunrise at Zhengbeilou → Beijing Jie → Nine-Eye Tower → Sunset at Ox Horn Edge.
Highlights: Golden-hour lighting, minimal crowds, and dramatic landscapes.
Ticket Purchase
Permits: Free, but mandatory registration via the "Huairou Tourism" WeChat account (required 2 days in advance).
Guided Tours: ¥300–500 per person (includes transport, guide, and insurance).
Restrictions: Limited to 500 visitors daily; closed during heavy rain or snow.
Transportation
By Car: Charter a taxi from Beijing (¥400–600 round-trip) or join a tour group.
Public Transport: Take Bus 916 (fast) from Dongzhimen to Huairou, then transfer to H25 to Xizhazi Village. From Mutianyu: Hire a local driver (¥100–150) for the 30-minute drive.
Departure: Buses leave Xizhazi Village at 4 PM; taxis are scarce post-hike.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid weekends; weekdays offer solitude.
Weather: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for clear skies. Avoid July–August (monsoon risks).
- Essentials:
Hiking boots, gloves, and trekking poles (mandatory for steep sections).
3+ liters of water, high-energy snacks, and a first-aid kit.
Leave no trace: Carry out all trash.
Prohibited: Solo hiking, drones, and off-trail exploration.
Safety: Only attempt advanced routes with a certified guide; sections like Sky Staircase require scrambling skills.
