Located at the foot of the Tianshou Mountain, some 50km away from central Beijing, are the Ming Tombs and Scenic Area. The Ming Tombs are found in a large area, in which 13 different Ming emperors were placed in grand individual mausoleums for their final resting place. For a stay in Beijing apartments which are conveniently located and are equipped with luxury facilities and amenities, stay at the Ascott Beijing; a luxury serviced apart’hotel.
The Ming Tombs are one of Beijing’s most popular historically and culturally significant attractions. While the entire scenic area is home to a total of 13 individual mausoleums, only three of them are open to the public. Nevertheless, these three mausoleums have a wealth of history preserved them to make a visit to the Ming Tombs well worth a visit. The reason why these 13 tombs are located in such close proximity is that once the first Ming emperor; Zhu Di, was laid to rest in the area, the succeeding 12 emperors also followed suit and declared that they too be laid to rest in tombs around Zhu Di’s tomb.
The best way to cover the Ming Tombs is to approach them from the Changling Sacred Way as along the way there are many smaller attractions such as the Great Red Gate, the Tablet Pavilion and many stone statues and figures. The Sacred Way leads to the Changling Tomb, the resting place of Emperor Zhu Di and Empress. This tomb is the best preserved tomb from all 13 and has three courtyards, the Grace & Blessing Palace and many valuable relics. From there onwards you can visit the Zingling and Daoling Tombs, the resting places of Emperors Zhu Yujin and Zhu Zaihou. These tombs are also grand structures, with beautiful architecture, stunning courtyards, statues and carvings, as well as many treasures and relics.
The Ming Tombs are a great attraction as they give you a glimpse of the status and wealth of the Ming Emperors, and also imparts knowledge on Chinese history and culture.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
