Located at the foot of Tianshou Mountain in Changping District, Beijing, the Ming Tombs comprise 13 imperial mausoleums of Ming Dynasty emperors, forming China's largest and most complete imperial tomb complex. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2003.
Historical Evolution
- Construction Period: Built from 1409 (7th year of Yongle) to 1644 (fall of Ming), spanning 235 years.
- Site Selection: Chosen according to feng shui principles, surrounded by mountains on three sides.
- Historical Value: Witnesses 276 years of Ming history, represents pinnacle of Ming architecture.
Layout
- Area: About 120 sq.km, equivalent to 17 Forbidden Cities.
- Architectural System: Each mausoleum follows unified standards with unique features.
- Sacred Way: 7.3km main path connects tombs, lined with 36 pairs of stone statues.
Main Tombs
- Changling Tomb: Largest tomb for Emperor Yongle (Zhu Di).
- Dingling Tomb: Only excavated underground palace (Emperor Wanli's tomb).
- Zhaoling Tomb: Best-preserved surface architecture (Emperor Longqing's tomb).
- Kangling Tomb: Known for "Kangling Spring Pancake" tradition (Emperor Zhengde's tomb).
Architectural Features
- Surface Structures: Memorial arches, steles, Ling'en Hall, Ming Tower form complete ritual system.
- Underground Palace: Dingling's 27m-deep palace has front/middle/rear halls and side chambers.
- Sculpture Art: Stone statues, inscriptions, and imperial path carvings showcase Ming artistry.
Highlights
- Dingling Underground Palace: Displays Emperor Wanli's coffin and excavated artifacts.
- Changling's Ling'en Hall: Golden nanmu wood structure, one of China's largest ancient wooden buildings.
- Sacred Way Statues: 36 pairs of stone figures/animals, masterpieces of Ming sculpture.
- Ming Tombs Museum: Systematic introduction to Ming burial customs and artifacts.
Practical Information
- Opening Hours: Peak season (Apr-Oct) 8:00-17:30; Off-season 8:30-17:00.
- Ticket Prices: Combo ticket 110 yuan (covers Dingling, Changling, Zhaoling, Sacred Way); Single sites 30-60 yuan.
- Transportation: Bus 872 from Deshengmen; Changping Line subway to Ming Tombs Station.
Travel Tips
- Recommended Route: Sacred Way→Dingling→Changling→Zhaoling (5-6 hours total).
- Best Seasons: Spring (April flowers) and autumn (October foliage).
- Notice: Underground palace is cool (bring jacket); respect no-photography zones.