Xifengkou Great Wall

The Xifengkou Great Wall, located within the Panjiakou Reservoir area, is mostly submerged, with its underwater sections faintly visible, creating a unique spectacle among the Great Wall. The blend of mountains and water resembles a picturesque landscape painting, showcasing a fusion of ancient and modern civilizations. Introduction to Xifengkou Great Wall ● Construction Time: Xifengkou, known as Songting Pass during the Song and Liao dynasties, had its gate rebuilt during the Ming Yongle period and renamed Xifengkou. The construction of the pass, including walls connecting to the Great Wall, was completed in July 1452 (the third year of the Jingtai period). ● Military Significance: Xifengkou has always been a strategic transportation hub and a battleground for military strategists. The patriotic poet Lu You of the Southern Song Dynasty wrote, "In the dead of night, I suddenly cried out, dreaming of capturing Songting Pass," highlighting its military importance. In 1933, the invading Japanese army attempted to enter through Xifengkou, but were met by the resistance led by General Song Zheyuan. ● Historical Significance: The Xifengkou Great Wall, stretching approximately 50 km within Kuancheng Manchu Autonomous County, served as a vital gateway connecting central China to the northern frontier and northeastern border during the Ming Dynasty. It is renowned for its well-preserved original state, untouched by artificial restoration. Due to its strategic location, this crucial pass has been a contested territory throughout history, witnessing the Battle of Xifengkou during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. ● Recognition: In 2009, the Xifengkou Great Wall War of Resistance Relics were designated as a provincial-level patriotic education base. In January 2017, the National Development and Reform Commission included the Xifengkou Great Wall War of Resistance Relics in the "National List of Classic Red Tourism Scenic Spots." In June 2021, it was selected as a newly designated national patriotic education demonstration base. Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ Difficulty Description: This is a non-scenic route, approximately 10 km long, with a total ascent of about 700 meters. It's an out-and-back trail with diverse terrain, starting from Xifengkou. The terrain mainly consists of wild mountain forest dirt and stone paths, country roads, gravel roads, and wilderness paths, combined with some ridge trails. Suitable for: Healthy individuals aged 10-55 with some outdoor experience. Precautions: (1) Due to recent rain and snow, all hiking activities will proceed regardless of weather conditions, except in extreme cases. Please bring rain gear and warm clothing. (2) Hiking activities may be affected by unforeseen circumstances such as flood control, which may prevent access to the mountains. In such cases, the team leader will adjust the itinerary accordingly. Please understand this situation if you participate. (3) Strict fire prevention measures are in place, and access to the mountains may be restricted. Alternative routes will be arranged if necessary. Do not bring fire sources into the mountains. (4) Please assess your physical fitness realistically. Once the hike begins, strictly follow the team leader's instructions and do not descend the mountain alone. (5) This is a purely recreational outdoor activity with no shopping stops at stores or farmhouses. (6) There are no tour guides for this activity, only a team leader to coordinate group actions. Babysitting services are not provided. Participants are expected to have a sense of teamwork and outdoor spirit, helping each other and working together to solve any problems.