Location & Access

Lupi Pass Great Wall sits in Shicheng Town, Miyun District, Beijing, nestled where the Bai River meets Miyun Reservoir. This hidden gem is tucked within Black Dragon Pool Scenic Area, so you’ll need to visit the larger park to catch a glimpse. To get there, drive about 130 km (~2 hours) northeast from downtown Beijing. Take the G45 Daguang Highway and follow signs for Miyun Reservoir. If you’re not driving, take Bus 980 to Miyun, then a taxi to Black Dragon Pool—though the final stretch to Lupi Pass requires some walking.

Natural Scenery

The area around Lupi Pass Great Wall is pure nature. Towering mountains frame the Bai River, which flows into Miyun Reservoir—a massive lake surrounded by lush greenery. In spring and summer, the walls are cloaked in wild trees and vines, blending seamlessly with the forest. From certain viewpoints, the crumbling stones peek through the leaves like nature’s own sculpture. For photographers, morning mist or sunset light here creates dramatic contrasts between the old walls and vibrant hills.

Historical Vibes

Lupi Pass isn’t just another长城 section—it’s a wild, untamed relic. Built in the Northern Qi Dynasty (around 550 AD) and later reinforced during the Ming Dynasty, it was once part of the stone-paved Shitangling Pass. Unlike restored tourist spots like Badaling, this stretch remains untouched, with broken battlements and stairs swallowed by vegetation. Locals call it “Lupi” (deer hide), rumored to be named after a legend where hunters hid deer skins here to avoid taxes. Today, it’s a stark reminder of长城’s original rugged purpose.

What to Expect

Since Lupi Pass Great Wall is inside Black Dragon Pool Scenic Area but closed to the public, you can’t hike its paths. However, strategic viewpoints along the reservoir’s trails offer stunning angles. The best spot is near the “Lupi Guan” signpost, where telephoto lenses can capture the wall winding down the mountain. For context, imagine a less-visited, more mysterious version of the Great Wall—this is what Lupi Pass feels like.

Facilities & Tips

Black Dragon Pool Scenic Area has basic amenities: a visitor center, restrooms, and snack stands. However, no facilities are built specifically for Lupi Pass. Wear sturdy shoes for the hilly terrain, and bring binoculars to spot details from afar. Note that climbing or entering the wall is strictly prohibited, both to protect the site and ensure safety.

The Experience

Visiting Lupi Pass Great Wall is about atmosphere over access. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and tranquility. Pair it with a boat ride on Miyun Reservoir or a walk in Black Dragon Pool’s wooded trails. History buffs will appreciate its raw, unrestored state, while photographers can snap shots of the wall framed by seasonal colors—pink peach blossoms in spring, golden leaves in fall. Just remember: this is a look-don’t-touch experience, preserving both the past and nature’s reclaim.