Huanghuacheng Great Wall

Huanghuacheng is the only lakeside Great Wall in Beijing. It is one of the top destinations for a Great Wall hiking tour. Visitors can also take a boat to appreciate the Great Wall at Huanghuacheng from a different angle. Located 70 kilometers (45 miles) away from Beijing city proper, it takes about 1.5 hours to get there by private car and 2 - 3 hours by public bus.

Huanghuacheng Great Wall  Photos

 When summer arrives in full bloom, the entire village below is awashed in a sea of yellow wild flowers ('yellow flower' is 'huanghua' in Chinese). Hence the village name Huanghuacheng (Huanghua City in English), and by turn the Great Wall section acquires its name.

 The construction commenced in 1404, two years before the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644) moved its capital to Beijing, and continued for 188 years.

 Mountainous terrain nearby makes it strategically placed as the northern gateway to Beijing. 

 Solid large flagstones in the body of the wall have withstood the wear and tear from both nature and man.

 Embracing the clear Haoming Lake, this section is 7.7 miles (12.4 kilometers) in length and partly submerged.

 A reservoir dam was built on the former site of Xishuiyuguan Pass, near the entrance to the scenic area.

 Like other sections, partial segments are only submerged after the dam have caused a rising of water level and leading to today's special feature.

 There is a lush chestnut garden at the mountain foot. It was planted by soldiers of the Ming Dynasty, who were assigned to stand guard in Huanghuacheng.
 

Huanghuacheng Great Wall Map (Click to enlarge)

  There is a boardwalk on the hill facing the scenic area. You can see everything while wandering along the walk. The experience is pleasing with lush trees and clear lake by your side.

 Half way down the boardwalk, you will find a small island against the hill. At the center of the scenic area, it is the best vantage point. There is a wharf, where you can board a cruise to enhance your experience.

 Climbing this section is not challenging. But it is in serious disrepair.

 There is an ancient hilltop tower named Dongliushi Tower to the east of the dam. It is the highest point, providing a bird's-eye-view of the whole scenic area.

The best time to visit this section is from April to October. The weather is pleasant in April, May, September, and October. With its lush plants and clear lake, it is also suitable for summer. 

 Mu Bus

 Bus No. 916:
Take bus no.916 or 916 Express at Dongzhimen to Nanhuayuan Sanqu in Huairou, and then walk to the nearby Nanhuayuan Siqu to board the bus H21 to the final stop Xishuiyu. Walk north for a couple of minutes to the scenic area. The whole transfer takes about 2-3 hours. 

 There is a grill in the scenic area. You can bring your own food and ingredients there. Or you can buy food inside. Price there is fair.

 You can also eat in the local villagers' houses near the scenic area. Most of them also provide accommodation.
 

 Further Reading
Hiking from Huanghuacheng to Xishuiyu
Great Wall of China in Huairou, Beijing
Wild Great Walls in Beijing
12 Popular Beijing Activities to Beat the Summer Heat
8 Most Beautiful Places in Beijing in Autumn