City walls in Shangqiu

The city walls of Shangqiu are a defensive structure in Suiyang built with stone barriers, watchtowers, and gates that reflect ancient Chinese military design principles. The construction features reinforced sections and strategic openings designed to protect the city from attack.

The fortification was built during the Tang Dynasty and served as the city's main defense for centuries. It played a critical role through multiple conflicts and was reinforced and maintained during the Song, Yuan, and Ming periods.

These walls show visitors how ancient communities protected their homes and organized their defenses through smart building choices visible in every section.

Visitors can enter the walls at several designated points and should wear sturdy shoes as some sections have uneven surfaces. Walking the full length takes several hours, so allow plenty of time for your visit.

A notable detail is the crenellated parapets that allowed defenders to hide behind stone blocks while still being able to shoot at attackers. This careful design reveals the technical knowledge of ancient builders.