Dingling Tomb (Mausoleum of Emperor Wanli)

The basics

Built over six years between 1584 and 1590, the tomb is gigantic and extravagant, with five halls connected by giant marble archways, and floors paved with gilded bricks. The central hall is home to three imperial thrones, while the rear hall is the most important and where the three coffins of the emperor and his empresses can be found. These are surrounded by red-lacquer chests filled with precious items. The tomb is frequently visited as a day trip from Beijing, often in conjunction with other Ming Tombs and the Juyongguan, Badaling, or Mutianyu portions of the UNESCO-listed Great Wall of China. Travelers who’d like a more comprehensive look at the Ming Tombs can visit several, including the Changling and Dingling Tombs and the Sacred Road, on a more focused day trip from the capital.

Things to know before you go

• Each of the Ming Tombs, including Dingling Tomb, charges a separate admission fee.
• Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, and be prepared for steep stairs.
• Due to the underground nature of the tomb, it is not wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

To reach the Dingling Tomb from Beijing, take Subway Line 2 to Jishuitan Station and walk to Deshengmen Bus Station. Take the 872 bus from here to the Ming Tombs. For a more convenient option, join a guided tour with transportation from Beijing.

When to get there

The tomb is open to visitors throughout the year, with shorter hours from November to March. The best time to visit is in the winter months, when the tombs are less crowded and admission is cheaper. Avoid visiting on weekends or Chinese national holidays.

Other Ming Tombs Worth Visiting

Three of the Ming Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are open to the public. The Sacred Way leads visitors to the Changling Tomb, where Emperor Yongle and Empress Qian were interred. This is the largest and best-preserved of the Ming Tombs, as well as the most visited. In contrast, Zhaoling Tomb is more secluded and receives far fewer visitors. This is where the twelfth emperor of the Ming Dynasty and his three empresses were laid to rest.