Dive deep into history here at the Huanghuacheng reservoir. This isn’t just any reservoir. It holds a secret. It uniquely intertwines with a section of the Great Wall. Huanghuacheng Great Wall is also known as the water Great Wall.
Imagine the scene from here atop Huanghuacheng Great Wall. Mountains surround us. Lush forests stretch as far as you can see. This creates a beautiful natural landscape all year round. You can feel relaxed. It is easy to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of modern cities.
Huanghuacheng Great Wall has a rich history. Emperor Yongle ordered its construction in A.D. 1404. This was to increase Beijing’s defensive force. It was built two years before the Forbidden City. It predates the Ming Tombs by three years. The Huanghuacheng Great Wall took 188 years to complete.
During construction rumors spread. People said that the Great Wall was of poor quality despite the money and time spent. Emperor Wanli was furious. He summoned General Cai Kai back to Beijing. Cai Kai supervised the Huanghuacheng Great Wall construction. The Emperor had him beheaded. After an investigation the Emperor discovered that General Cai’s work was solid. He realized his mistake. To honor General Cai, he inscribed two Chinese characters at the foot of the Great Wall. These characters were Jintang. Jintang means impregnable fortress. Huanghuacheng Great Wall is sometimes referred to as Jintang Great Wall.
Let’s turn our gaze towards Haoming Lake. This lake naturally divides the Huanghuacheng Great Wall. Two sections are underwater. This creates a peculiar landscape. The water submerges the ancient wall. This happened in 1974. To build the Xishuiyu reservoir, they had to dam the lake. This raised the water level. The parts of Huanghuacheng Great Wall in the low valley have been underwater ever since. When viewed from above, Huanghuacheng Great Wall looks like an agile dragon. It stretches its head into the water.
Now, notice the chestnut garden. It covers over 100 mu which is about 7 hectares. There are more than 100 ancient trees here. Soldiers guarding Huanghuacheng planted them in the Ming Dynasty. They farmed to support themselves. These ancient chestnut trees have weathered 600 years. They are still thriving and fruitful. Autumn is the most beautiful time in the chestnut garden. The leaves turn yellow in late September through November.
There are many activities here at Huanghuacheng Great Wall. You can hike the Great Wall. This section is hiking-friendly. There are many steps to climb. In general, the steps are relatively flat. You can choose an easy or challenging hike. You can also take a boat on Haoming Lake. You can take a boat from the reservoir dam to the biland in the center of the lake. There are yachts, sightseeing boats, pedalos, and rowing boats. This short trip saves time and energy. It gives you a unique experience of boating on the Great Wall.
Imagine a bonfire party under the stars. You can sing, dance, cheer, and even barbeque. The campfire lights up the hills, water, and the ancient Great Wall. It breaks the silence around you. The water Great Wall has vitality and charm.
Huanghuacheng Great Wall is more than just a historical site. It’s a place where history, nature, and recreation blend. As you leave Huanghuacheng reservoir remember the stories. Think of General Cai. Remember the underwater sections. Appreciate the beauty. It is a unique landmark of human endeavor and natural beauty.