The road leading to the Ming Tombs is a 7km stretch called Spirit Way. Commencing from the south with a triumphal triple archway, known as the Great Palace Gate , the path passes through Stele Pavilion (碑亭), which contains a giant bìxì (mythical tortoise-like dragon) bearing the largest stele in China. A guard of 12 sets of giant stone animals and officials ensues.
