Plan your Jinshanling Great Wall Tour? While there are many sections of the wall to explore, the Jinshanling Great Wall stands out for its stunning views, well-preserved towers, and fewer crowds compared to other parts of the wall.
The Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service, launched on September 4, 2024, offers tourists a convenient and comfortable way to visit this picturesque section. This article provides all the necessary details about how to get to Jinshanling Great Wall by bus from Beijing, making your travel planning easier.
Introduction to the Jinshanling Great Wall
The Jinshanling Great Wall is located about 130 kilometers northeast of Beijing, between Miyun County and Luanping County. This section of the wall is known for its impressive architectural features and relatively untouched sections, giving visitors a more authentic experience of the Great Wall. Stretching for 10.5 kilometers, the Jinshanling section boasts 67 towers and has a mixture of restored and original segments, making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Unlike the more touristy sections like Badaling, Jinshanling offers a more serene and immersive experience. The rolling hills, expansive views, and fewer crowds make it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter visit. Getting to Jinshanling from Beijing used to be a bit complicated, but with the new Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service, travelers now have a direct and hassle-free option.
Overview of the Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service
The Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service was introduced to simplify the journey for tourists wanting to explore this majestic section of the wall. The service offers a convenient daily schedule, which ensures you have ample time to enjoy the Great Wall before heading back to Beijing.
The bus departs from the Dongzhimen Transportation Hub at 7:00 AM and takes approximately 3 hours to reach the Jinshanling Great Wall. Once you arrive, you’ll have four hours to explore the scenic area on your own, giving you plenty of time to hike, take photos, and absorb the stunning views. At 2:00 PM, the bus departs for Beijing, returning to Dongzhimen at around 5:00 PM. This efficient schedule allows tourists to enjoy a full-day trip without the need to arrange complicated transportation.
Bus Route Details
- 7:00 AM: The bus departs from the Dongzhimen Transportation Hub in central Beijing.
- 10:00 AM: Arrival at Jinshanling Great Wall Scenic Area.
- Four-hour Stay: Explore the scenic area at your leisure.
- 2:00 PM: Departure from Jinshanling to return to Beijing.
- 5:00 PM: Arrival back at Dongzhimen, concluding the trip.
The total travel time from Beijing to Jinshanling and back, including the four-hour stay at the Great Wall, is about 10 hours, making it a perfect day trip from the city.
Departure Location: Dongzhimen Transportation Hub
The Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service departs from the Dongzhimen Transportation Hub. Getting to this departure point is straightforward. You can reach Dongzhimen using the Beijing Subway:
Dongzhimen Departure Station: Exit from Beijing Dongzhimen Subway Station Line 2, Exit B or E, turn left and enter the Dongzhimen Transportation Hub. Look for the Beijing Tourism Information Kiosk. Alternatively, from Line 13, Exit H, you will find the kiosk directly opposite.
Once inside the hub, look for the Beijing Tourism Information Kiosk. This is where the direct bus departs for Jinshanling.
To avoid any confusion, I recommend arriving at Dongzhimen early, especially if it’s your first time navigating Beijing’s subway system.
Ticket Prices for the Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service
The Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service offers several ticket options based on age and student status:
- Adult Ticket: 228 RMB per person.
- Senior Ticket (60 years and above): 198 RMB per person.
- Student Ticket (Minors over 1.2 meters and university students): 198 RMB per person.
- Child Ticket (Children under 1.2 meters with a seat): 120 RMB per person.
These prices are inclusive of several amenities, making the trip a great value. The ticket price includes:
- Round-trip transportation on an air-conditioned bus.
- Admission to the Jinshanling Great Wall scenic area.
- A round-trip shuttle bus within the scenic area.
- A round-trip cable car ride, saving you the effort of climbing steep stairs.
Please note that prices may vary slightly based on promotions or adjustments, so it’s always a good idea to confirm the price through the official booking platform.
How to Purchase Tickets for the Direct Bus
Booking tickets for the Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service is easy and can be done online or on-site. The most convenient way is through the Beijing Tourism Distribution Center public WeChat account or their mini-program. Or you may buy your tickets on the spot. Just a kind reminder to book your tickets in advance in the tourist peak season.
For international travelers, I recommend using WeChat, one of China’s most widely used apps. You can scan the provided QR code on the WeChat app to book your tickets quickly.
I suggest booking your tickets as soon as you arrive in Beijing to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons. You can also go to the the Beijing Tourism Information Kiosk inside the Dongzhimen Transportation Hub and book the tickets on the spot.
Additional Tips for Using the Direct Bus Service
- Book in Advance: While it’s possible to purchase tickets on the spot, it’s best to book your tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment, especially if you plan to visit during weekends or holidays.
- Arrive Early: Ensure you arrive at Dongzhimen Transportation Hub at least 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This gives you enough time to find the correct kiosk and get settled.
- Pack Essentials: Although the bus is comfortable and air-conditioned, remember to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for your time at the wall. The sun can be intense, and there’s limited shade along some parts of the Great Wall.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Jinshanling offers many hiking opportunities, so comfortable shoes are a must. Even though the cable car will take you up the steepest parts, you’ll still want to walk along the wall to explore the towers and enjoy the views.
- Prepare for Weather Changes: The weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Bring a light jacket if you’re visiting in the fall or spring, as temperatures can drop.
Why Choose the Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service?
The Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service is the best way to reach this breathtaking section of the wall if you’re staying in Beijing. It eliminates the hassle of figuring out complex public transportation or costly private transfers. The direct service offers comfort, convenience, and a stress-free way to experience the beauty of Jinshanling.
Many travelers prefer Jinshanling over other sections like Badaling because of its less commercialized atmosphere. It provides a more authentic and peaceful experience, allowing visitors to truly connect with the history and grandeur of the Great Wall. With the direct bus, you can easily escape the city for a day and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
The Beijing – Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Bus Service is a fantastic option for foreign tourists wanting to explore one of the most scenic and less crowded sections of the Great Wall. The direct bus provides an affordable and convenient way to travel from Beijing to Jinshanling, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying their day trip without the stress of organizing transportation.
If you’re planning to visit Beijing, be sure to add the Jinshanling Great Wall to your itinerary. The breathtaking views, well-preserved towers, and tranquil environment make it a must-see destination. With the direct bus service, getting there has never been easier! Safe travels, and enjoy your journey to the Great Wall!
