Chadao Ancient City sits quietly just outside the famous Badaling Great Wall, nestled in Chadao Village, Yanqing District, Beijing. It’s easy to reach—about 70 kilometers northwest of downtown Beijing. If you’re driving, take the G6 Beijiنغ-Lhasa Highway and follow signs for Badaling; the village is a short detour northwest. Public transport users can take a bus to Badaling, then walk or hire a bike to explore this hidden gem.

Natural Scenery

Surrounded by rolling mountains, Chadao Ancient City feels like a step back into nature. The city’s boat-shaped layout hugs the slopes, blending seamlessly with the landscape. Wildflowers and pine trees frame the stone walls, especially stunning in spring and autumn. A short hike up nearby trails offers panoramic views of the ancient walls against the green hills—perfect for photography lovers!

Historical Vibes

Chadao Ancient City isn’t just old—it’s steeped in military history. Built in the 1550s during the Ming Dynasty, it guarded two key roads: one leading west to宣化(Xuanhua) and another north to永宁(Yongning). The name “Chadao” comes from its role as a crossroads, or “fork in the road.” Walk along the 8.5-meter-tall walls, and you’ll see horse tracks (used by soldiers), shooting holes, and two watchtowers on the south side. Fun fact: the walls started as dirt-filled stone bases, later upgraded with bricks—a mix of ancient engineering styles!

Architecture 101

At first glance, Chadao’s shape might seem odd—it’s not a perfect rectangle. Instead, it curves like a ship, narrowing at both ends. Measuring 510 meters east-west and 185 meters north-south, the city covers 83,000 square meters. Climb to the northern half, built into a hillside, for a unique perspective. Local guides often joke: “This city isn’t just defense—it’s art!”

Practical Tips

Visitors find Chadao surprisingly accessible. A small parking lot welcomes day-trippers, and a simple ticket office manages entry. Souvenir shops sell Ming-inspired crafts, while a few eateries offer延庆dumplings and tea. For deeper history, hire a guide (they speak basic English) to explain the walls’ two-phase construction: early layers of stones and lime, later topped with bricks.

Immersive Experience

Stroll through Chadao’s narrow streets, where every corner tells a story. Kids love climbing the wall’s steps, while history buffs admire the mix of rough-hewn stones and neat bricks. On clear days, the view from the walls stretches to distant peaks. End your visit with sunset—the golden light on the ancient stones makes Chadao feel like a living museum. Bring water and comfy shoes; this place is made for wandering!

Keywords: Chadao Ancient City, Ming Dynasty, Badaling, military fortress, stone walls, watchtowers, hiking, photography, historical architecture, Beijing day trip.