First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall

Today, little more than ruins remains of the "First Beacon of the Great Wall", but this was once the site of one of the largest Great Wall beacon towers on the Western frontier. Built during the mid-Ming Dynasty, the tower was strategically placed at the westernmost point of the Great Wall overlooking the Taolai River.

While the ruins are unimpressive, the views from the lookout point are fantastic and the museum holds some interesting information about the tower's function. Along the river just below the lookout is a recreated military camp which could be interesting for children.

Average time for this activity : 1 hrs

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