The Ming Tombs
AZ Beijing

Overview
The Ming Tombs are situated northwest of Beijing in the foothills of the Yianshou Mountains. The Ming Tombs consist of a total of 13 tombs which were used for emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Of the 13 tombs only two (the Changling and Dingling) are currently fully excavated and open to the public.

Just getting to the actual tombs is a visual treat. The road to the Ming Tombs is a beautiful stone paved road that is roughly 5 miles in length. You will enter the road through a white marble archway that was built in 1540. Immediately past that you will have a chance to view massive statues of both humans and various animals.

At the Changling tomb, which is the largest of the 13 you will encounter the Ling En Hall which was constructed in the 1400's. Made of a variety of exotic and precious woods, the hall is exquisitely made and is one of the largest wooden structures found in China. At the rear of the hall reside a 2 story castle.

The 13th Ming Emperor was buried in the Dingling tomb. Here you will find another hall and then a large underground palace. The entire palace is made from stone. In the back you will find the Burial Chamber where the emperor's coffin was placed. Inside the coffin archaeologist found large quantities of valuable relics. There relics are now on display in the onsite museum.

Spend a day and visit the Ming Tombs. The Chinese language school in Beijing can help students who come to study and learn Chinese visit these tombs.

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