Mutianyu Great Wall Permanent Show – The Soul of the Great Wall · Qi Jiguang’s Army Now On Stage!
Visit the grand pass this summer and dive into the epic story of Ming border garrisons—all visitors can watch for free!
A Pledge of Protection Between a Legendary General and the Great Wall
Six hundred years ago, this site was known as Mutianyu Pass, a critical fortress shielding the imperial capital.
Qi Jiguang, renowned general famed for suppressing coastal pirate raids, was later tasked with defending the northern approaches to the capital. He fully recognized that these rugged mountains stood right beside the imperial city, and border security would shape the nation’s destiny.
He renovated the Great Wall and constructed hollow watchtowers. Building on the combat tactics of the Yuanyang (Mandarin Duck) Formation, he adapted defensive strategies to suit warfare on the northern frontier.
The Mutianyu Great Wall’s well-preserved ramparts and dense array of watchtowers today stand as a solid legacy built brick by brick under Qi Jiguang’s leadership.
This stirring chapter of history has been revived in a permanent live performance. As bugles blare and battle flags flutter, the heroic soldiers of Qi Jiguang’s Army reappear upon this ancient pass.
Five-Act Epic: Witness the Turbulent Frontier Days of the Ming Dynasty
[ Act 1: Beacon Fire Ignites – Preparations at the Grand Pass ]
Long, resonant bugles echo afar; weathered battle flags billow in the wind.
Soldiers stand in tight, orderly formations, emanating the solemn bearing of frontier defenders.
Winds sweep over the ancient ramparts, recreating the magnificent scene of Ming troops guarding the borderlands.
[ Act 2: Rigorous Drills – Forging a Powerful Army ]
General Qi Jiguang personally oversees troop training.
Soldiers march in forceful, synchronized strides, executing seamless formation shifts and weapon drills.
[ Act 3: The Ingenious Yuanyang Formation – Tactics for Offense and Defense ]
The highlight of the performance!
This immersive live demonstration showcases Qi Jiguang’s Army’s legendary Yuanyang Formation.
Performers faithfully recreate coordinated weapon work and flexible formation adjustments, laying ancient military wisdom bare before the audience. Spectators will gain insight into the core training concepts and strategic sagacity of Qi Jiguang’s Army.
[ Act 4: General Qi’s Saber Techniques – Intense Martial Duel ]
The entire cast delivers authentic General Qi’s Saber routines with upright, commanding poise.
Sharp, coordinated movements paired with standard martial arts sparring vividly depict the Ming troops’ dedication to martial prowess and unyielding resolve to defend the frontier.
[ Act 5: Immortal Martial Spirit – Noble Aspirations Soar High ]
All troops assemble in imposing, neat ranks.
General Qi delivers a sincere address on his founding mission, embodying wholehearted loyalty to the nation and steadfast duty.
The full cast chants in unison to pay tribute to noble spirits, stirring the audience and carrying forward China’s everlasting martial ethos.
Performance Schedule: 10:00 / 11:00 every week. No performances on Tuesdays.
Venue: Service Area Plaza
This ancient grand pass bears the marks of time; this steadfast Qi Jiguang’s Army embodies loyal martial spirit; this enduring tale carries forward China’s timeless national character.
This summer, come to Mutianyu to explore the ancient culture of the grand pass. Immerse yourself in troop drill displays and experience profound patriotism. Travel back to ancient times and witness this exclusive, stirring summer spectacle.
