The Great Wall at Jiankou, Located in the district of Huairou and 80 kilometres north-east of Beijing, is completely in its original state, dating from the Ming period (late 14th century). Exploring these more authentic fragments of the wall is a great experience, however, it could be dangerous, as a lot of steep steps are crumbling. Although this section of the wall is well worth seeing, it's not open to tourists and hiking along the wall at Jiankou is banned to ensure its preservation.      Many people learn about the Jiankou section from illustrated books about the Great Wall. One scene is known as "Ying Fei Dao Yang" (the eagles have to fly upwards over a high tower), so named because a watchtower was erected on the highest peak, and eagles/hawks often perched on it. Another one is "Heavenly Ladder" - a flight of steps ascending almost vertically. These steps are so narrow that only one person can climb up at a time. The massive and well preserved watchtower is the best spot for taking photos and watching the sunrise. At the foot of the wall a couple of quiet and peaceful villages lie in the valley. Taveller's tip: a. A side tour to the Western Qing Tomb(first built in 1730 during Qing Dynasty) is recommended. The Tomb, where four emperors are buried, is located about 35km south of Zijinguan. It is now a very beautiful and quiet park. The entrance fee is RMB90/person . b. In 2004, rather than restoration, a replica of the original sight of Zijingguan Pass was built. Fortunately, the original marble with the name of Zijinguan is still well-preserved there to remind people the grandeur and magnificence of the fortress in its prime. Other Hiking Sections on the Great Wall: Old Dragon's Head/Shanhaiguan   Mutianyu Great Wall Jiaoshan Great Wall Jiankou Great Wall Dongjiakou Great Wall Huanghuacheng Great Wall Jiumenkou Great Wall Juyongguan Pass Huangyaguan Pass Badaling Great Wall Simatai Great Wall Zijingguan Great Wall Jinshanling Great Wall Wulonggou Great Wall Gubeikou Great Wall