Deshengmen

Welcome to Deshengmen, a formidable survivor of old Beijing's northern fortifications. Standing as a massive grey sentinel, this is the Deshengmen Archery Tower, one of the few remaining pieces of the city's complex gate and wall…

We stand at the base of the Deshengmen Archery Tower, looking up at its grey brick facade. This structure was the first line of defense for the northern gate of the city. …

As we pass through the threshold and enter the tower, consider the transition this space has undergone. During the Ming Dynasty, this area would have been a high-security zone, part of the 'barbican'—a semi-circular enclosure…

Inside the Deshengmen Archery Tower, you will find a fascinating and somewhat unexpected gem: the Beijing Museum of Ancient Coinage. This museum uses the interior levels of the tower to display thousands of years of Chinese…

We have reached the upper levels of the tower. From the high windows, you can look out across the northern part of Beijing. …

After exploring the tower, we take a short walk to the west to see the Xihai Wetland Park. This area is essential for understanding why Deshengmen was located here. …

To conclude our tour, we walk along the perimeter of the tower, following what was once the 'Road of Triumph.' In the Ming and Qing dynasties, this was the gate used by the emperor’s armies when they returned from successful…

As we conclude our walk at Deshengmen, take a moment to stand in the shadow of this great archery tower. It is a rare privilege to see such a complete piece of Beijing's original fortifications. …