Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour in Beijing, China
Beijing, China

Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour

Outty Ranking 60 5.0 · 3 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $150
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Outty Ranking

60/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour worth booking?

Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour is a 8-hour experience in Beijing, China, from $150 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
60 / 100
Rating
5/5 (3)
Duration
8 hours
From
$150 per person

This private tour starts with a visit to the site of the Ming Dynasty tombs and includes a visit to the Ding tombs, (or Underground Palace), 89 feet below ground, the only tomb open to the public. On route you’ll pass the grand entrance to the Imperial burial site, The Sacred Way, a decorative walkway lined with impressive sized statues of significance and meaning. Get a glimpse into China’s rich imperial past with the architecture, distinctive wood carvings and ancient relics seen. After lunch travel to the Huanghuacheng Wall, hike along this wild, original, less visited section, once built in the Ming Dynasty, as part of the inner wall to protect Beijing from a northern invasion.  It’s also the only section close to a man-made lake. When the Xishuiyu Dam was built, the wall that crossed the valley floor was flooded. Your guide will show you where to climb the ramparts, and safely navigate the wall to admire the views and the wall cascading into the lake below.

What you get

    About this experience

    This private tour starts with a visit to the site of the Ming Dynasty tombs and includes a visit to the Ding tombs, (or Underground Palace), 89 feet below ground, the only tomb open to the public. On route you’ll pass the grand entrance to the Imperial burial site, The Sacred Way, a decorative walkway lined with impressive sized statues of significance and meaning. Get a glimpse into China’s rich imperial past with the architecture, distinctive wood carvings and ancient relics seen. After lunch travel to the Huanghuacheng Wall, hike along this wild, original, less visited section, once built in the Ming Dynasty, as part of the inner wall to protect Beijing from a northern invasion.  It’s also the only section close to a man-made lake. When the Xishuiyu Dam was built, the wall that crossed the valley floor was flooded. Your guide will show you where to climb the ramparts, and safely navigate the wall to admire the views and the wall cascading into the lake below.

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • English-speaking Driver(not tour guide inside tourist attractions)
    • Private transportation with air conditioner car
    • entrance fee
    • Chinese lunch

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Souvenirs
    • English-speaking Tour Guide

    What you'll see and do

    1. Stone Animal

      Expect to be picked up from your hotel by your professional hiking guide around 8.30 am and driven directly to the site of the Ming tombs, the burial site of 13 of the Ming Dynasty Emperors - about 1.5 hours from the city. It covers an area of 30 acres (12 ha). The Ding Tombs is the only one open to the public. Marvel at the entrance, known as The Sacred or Spirit Way, a walkway lined with some 36 impressively sized statures; important officials and meritorious figures, exotic animals- lions, camels, elephants, xiezhis, (a mythological unicorn) and the like, each unique or of special significance, which your guide will happily explain.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Dingling Underground Palace

      Emperor Wanli, the 13th Ming Emperor had the longest reign of the period ruling for 48 years. His tomb, at 89 feet below ground is well preserved and extravagant. Unusual for a burial place it has five rooms. Some of the Emperor’s jewels and other artefacts are on display. Break for lunch at a local Chinese restaurant before enjoying a scenic drive to the Great Wall at Huanghuacheng, a section of the wall less visited, even in Summer time, and still in its original or ‘wild’ condition, unrestored

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Water Great Wall at Huanghuacheng

      On arrival at Xishuiyu village, your guide will show you the best path to ascend the ramparts and navigate them safely. The wall here follows quite mountainous terrain and affords quite a spectacular hiking experience. Marvel at the breath taking scenery and view of the wall cascading into the man-made lake below. When summer arrives the entire village below becomes a sea of wild, yellow flowers ('yellow flower' is 'huanghua' in Chinese), hence this section’s name. Overall the pristine setting, lack of crowds, and cool, clear mountain air make this tour a pleasant contrast from visits to other sections of the Wall. After your descent you’ll be free to wander down by the lake, take a boat ride to see the submerged section of the wall up close or simply return back to your hotel in Beijing, approximately 1.5 hours away where your guide will wish you a fond farewell.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    zh-TW, cmn, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Mark's Guide & Driver Service Beijing

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Minimum age is 10 years
    • Please wear comfortable hiking shoes
    • Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
    • Travel insurance is encouraged

    Photos

    The Underground Palace, Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour in BeijingThe Sacred Way 2, Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour in BeijingMing Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour in Beijing, photo 4Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour in Beijing, photo 5Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour in Beijing, photo 6Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour in Beijing, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 3 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Photo opportunities

    1 mention

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Organization

    1 mention

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Food and drink

    1 mention

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Pace and timing

    1 mention

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    3 verified traveler reviews for Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    Christopher_R · April 2025

    Amazing Lake View Great wall tour!

    You will learn a lot from this tour about Ming Dynasty. The wall side great wall tour was fantastic. This is the best view so far.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your comment. The Ming Tombs are very close to the Water Great Wall and are very suitable for a one-day tour in terms of time. The ancient Great Wall was submerged underwater and then emerged above the water surface again along with the undulating terrain of the mountains. Such a beautiful scene of the Great Wall blending with the water surface can only be found here among the thousands of kilometers of the Great Wall. Thank you for your re-reservation.

    via Viator

    Raymond_T · November 2023

    Fantastic 😀

    Great tour and I highly recommend it . I was picked up on time from my hotel and taken first to the Great Wall by the Lake , driver got my ticket and then your own your own to do as your please , you just arrange a meeting time with the driver . Best lunch I had a month in China which I shared with the driver . Underground Palace and Ming Tombs a real highlight of the day 😀 I’ve forgotten the drivers name but he was great . This tour will not disappoint you at all 😀

    Response from the operator: Thanks for your review Raymo, we are small group of driver guide. The lake great Wall different than other section great wall. usually we local beijinger like this lake great walll. Thank you very much.

    via Viator

    ptavitm · September 2023

    Best 1 day trip , not crowded place , Good guide

    Best trip in short 1 day trip , The trip is suitable for visitor who want a less people place. Lake side greatwall is a best place and most valued spend a time. Good guide & good price

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $150 to $248
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Mark's Guide & Driver Service Beijing, who run 14 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.5.

    See everything Mark's Guide & Driver Service Beijing runs

    Why this scores 60

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)24
    Booking momentum (14% weight)15
    Value for money (12% weight)47
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)52
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Beijing.

    How much does Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour cost?

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    Prices start at $150 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Beijing usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour take?

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    Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Beijing is not rushed.

    Is Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 3 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Beijing, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour?

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    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Beijing can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Beijing and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Beijing within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Beijing?

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    On Outty we rank every Beijing experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Temple Heaven, Lama Temple, Summer Palace & Peking Duck Bus Tour, Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Sightseeing Full-day Group Tours, Mubus: Mutianyu Great Wall Bus Tour with Summer Palace Options. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Beijing?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Beijing?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour?

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    Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; English-speaking Driver(not tour guide inside tourist attractions); Private transportation with air conditioner car; entrance fee; and Chinese lunch. Not included: Gratuities; Souvenirs; and English-speaking Tour Guide. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 2799 listed pickup locations in and around Beijing. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour offered in?

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    It is offered in Chinese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Beijing. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Ming Tombs Sacred Way & Underground Palace & Water Wall P Tour?

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    Across 3 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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