Shanhaiguan
Hebei Sheng
Shanhai Pass, located in Hebei Province, China, is a historically significant fortified gateway at the eastern terminus of the Great Wall of China. Constructed during the early Ming dynasty, it served as a vital military defense controlling the narrow Liaoxi Corridor-the only easily accessible land route between North and Northeast China. The pass stretches from the Yan Mountains to the Bohai Sea, with its most iconic section known as "Old Dragon's Head," where the Great Wall meets the sea. Throughout history, Shanhai Pass has protected the Chinese heartland from incursions by various northern ethnic groups including the Khitan and Manchus. Its strategic importance earned it the nickname "Greatest Pass Under Heaven." The pass features extensive fortifications, including city walls and military structures, many of which were reinforced during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, Shanhai Pass is a major cultural and tourist site, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level in China. Visitors can explore its well-preserved walls, gates, and the surrounding military city, gaining insight into China's ancient defensive architecture and history.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Shanhai Pass is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. Visitors should allocate ample time to explore both the pass itself and the "Old Dragon's Head" area where the Great Wall meets the sea. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the site's historical significance. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Access is convenient via the Shanhaiguan railway station and the Jingshen Expressway.
Faits intéressants
- •Shanhai Pass is famously nicknamed the "Greatest Pass Under Heaven" due to its strategic military importance.
- •The pass marks the eastern end of the Great Wall of China, where the wall meets the Bohai Sea at "Old Dragon's Head."
- •It was selected as a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level by China in 1961 and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
- •The pass commands the narrowest choke point in the Liaoxi Corridor, a crucial land passage between North and Northeast China.
- •The Shanhaiguan railway station, a key stop on the Beijing–Harbin railway, is located just south of the pass's main gate.
Histoire
Shanhai Pass has a long history dating back to the Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang dynasties when initial passes were constructed at this strategic location.
During the Ming dynasty in 1381, General Xu Da rebuilt and fortified the pass, naming it Shanhaiguan due to its position between the mountains and the sea.
In the late 16th century, General Qi Jiguang further enhanced its defenses by building military cities and forts around the pass.
Under Qing rule, it became the seat of Linyu County and saw additional coastal fortifications.
Throughout the 20th century, control of the pass shifted through various military regimes until it was taken by the Communist Northeast Field Army in 1948.
It remains one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall today.
Guide du lieu
Main Gate and Barbican1381
The imposing main gate of Shanhai Pass features a barbican wall that was crucial for defense, controlling access through the pass. Visitors can admire the massive stone and brick fortifications and the traditional Ming dynasty architectural style.
Old Dragon's Head (Laolongtou)
This is the iconic section where the Great Wall extends into the Bohai Sea, resembling a dragon's head entering the water. It is a unique and picturesque spot symbolizing the meeting of land and sea defenses.
Military City and Fortifications16th century
Surrounding the pass are extensive military cities and forts built mainly during the Ming and Qing dynasties, including walls, watchtowers, and barracks that illustrate the pass's role as a military stronghold.