Huanghuacheng Great Wall of China

The Huanghuacheng Lakeside Great Wall is located at the Xishuiyu Pass, one of the nine major passes along the Huanghuacheng Great Wall in Huairou District. Huanghuacheng Great Wall provides a challenge as it has no stone steps or no single smooth path like the ones found at Badaling and other
sections of the Great Wall. Moreover, Huanghuacheng has long been the most frequent subject of photography lovers.
In 1974, the Pass was demolished to give way to the dam of the Xishuiyu Reservoir. Now, the walls on both sides of the dam look grandiose and magnificent, running like a giant dragon on the mountain ridges and around the Haoming Lake. The unique landscape, a pool of crystal-clear water surrounded on three sides by the Great Wall, adds profoundly to the historical and cultural atmosphere of the entire Reserve.
Four things to do at Huanghuacheng Great Wall are highly recommended. First, take as many beautiful pictures as you like. There are numerous landscapes rarely seen in the world on offer. For example, the lake breaks this section of the Great Wall into three segments, which is the frequent subject of photography. Besides the Huanghuacheng Reservoir lies here, shaped like a curved moon. Second, go visit the chestnut garden beneath the Great Wall, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The ancient chestnut trees still grow very well. Third, climb up the steepest section of the Huanghuacheng Great Wall, Shibadeng which looks like a dragon, ready to fly into the blue sky. Fourth, look at Yaoziyu Castle. It was built in the Ming Dynasty, still well-preserved. In the castle, there is an ancient Chinese scholar tree. It is said that touching it could bring you a blessing.
Best time to visit Huanghuacheng: all the 4 seasons, each season having its pros and cons. Just try to avoid visiting the Great Wall in bad weather (heavy rain, storm or thunderstorm), for it can be slippery and dangerous for your own safety. Recommended length of time for a visit to Huanghuacheng is half a day.