Ming Tombs The Ming dynasty was known as the ’Äúperiod of restoration and reorganization’Äù in the 18th century as China, under the Ming era, saw a flourish of the trading business with the rest of the world. With that prosperity, the wealth was splurged on both the living and the dead. As such, take a tour of the vast mausoleums of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty at the Ming Tombs which lie a convenient 50 km northwest of Beijing. After taking in the sight of the Great Wall (which the Ming emperors were heavily involved in), venture around the magnificent Changling tomb which inhumes Emperor Zhuli and his empresses, some of which were said to be buried alive. Paved with a floor of gold bricks and a palace made entirely of fragrant camphor wood. Taking 200 years to build, the mausoleums have been perfectly preserved, as has the necropolis of each of the 13 emperors. Soak in the rich historical and palatial complexity of its architecture and design as a guide tells stories of empresses who had to express the ultimate loyalty to the deceased Emperor by being buried with him. CONSIDERATIONS Spring (March ’ÄìMay) is the best time to visit as the areas surrounding the vaults burst into color and the trees bloom with flowers. ENHANCEMENTS Historians or Specialist Guides give a lecture on the Ming Dynasty/Ming Tombs prior to commencement of tour. REFERENCE : BPT3 Duration : 6-8 hours Capacity : Unlimited