How to Get to Badaling Great Wall – Your Complete Guide

Plan your Great Wall Tour? Visiting the iconic Badaling Great Wall from downtown Beijing is a must for every traveler exploring China’s rich history and majestic landmarks.

And this “How to Get to Badaling Great Wall” guide will navigate you through the various transportation options, travel tips for hiking Badaling Great Wall, ensuring a seamless journey to one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall.

3. Train to Badaling Great Wall

You may take the high-speed train from Qinghe Train Station to  Badaling Great Wall Station and vice versa.

Qinghe Railway Station in Beijing is located between Anningzhuang West Road and Xiaoying West Road in Haidian District, Beijing. Specifically, it is situated between the south side service road of Anningzhuang North Road and the north side service road of Xiaoying West Road.

How to get to Qinghe Railway Station

Transportation to and from Qinghe Station in Beijing is very convenient, with multiple options including subway, bus, taxi, and ride-hailing services. The best way is taking subway.

Subway
Qinghe Station serves as an interchange between the Beijing Suburban Railway and Subway Line 13. Passengers can easily transfer between Line 13 and the Changping Line.

After exiting the Qinghe Railway Station (清河站) of Subway Line 13, follow the guiding signs to the security screening area, and then proceed to the subway entrance to scan and enter. Line 13 operates from 5:35 AM to 10:42 PM, while the Changping Line operates from 5:30 AM to 10:45 PM.

Kinder Reminder: Badaling Great Wall Station and Badaling Station are not the same railway station. Badaling Great Wall Station is a high-speed rail station located at the Guntiangou Tunnel in Yanqing District, Beijing. In contrast, Badaling Station is a regular train station located at the intersection of Provincial Road 216 and National Highway G6 in Badaling Town, Yanqing District, Beijing.

Badaling Great Wall Station is just next to the Badaling Great Wall.

High-Speed Train Timetable from Beijing Qinghe Station to Badaling Great Wall Station

Train Number	Departure Station	Arrival Station	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Duration
D1023	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	06:38	07:00	0.37 hours
D6703	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	08:33	09:05	0.53 hours
D1103	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	08:19	08:41	0.37 hours
D1107	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	09:52	10:14	0.37 hours
D1091	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	10:25	10:47	0.37 hours
D6705	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	10:58	11:20	0.37 hours
D1009	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	12:06	12:28	0.37 hours
D6725	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	12:44	13:06	0.37 hours
D1113	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	14:19	14:41	0.37 hours
D1131	Qinghe Station	Badaling Great Wall	14:57	15:19	0.37 hours

These train options provide detailed information for travel from Qinghe Station to Badaling Great

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High-Speed Train Timetable from Badaling Great Wall Station to Qinghe Railway Station

Train Number	Departure Station	Arrival Station	Departure Time	Arrival Time	Duration	Second-Class Ticket	First-Class Ticket
D1024	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	09:02	09:21	25 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
D1002	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	09:28	09:48	25 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
D6704	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	10:12	10:32	22 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
D1004	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	10:31	10:51	22 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
D1072	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	12:38	12:58	33 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
D6720	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	13:24	13:44	27 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
G2526	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	14:27	14:46	21 min	25 RMB	40 RMB (Business Class: 76 RMB)
G7834	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	14:44	15:04	22 min	25 RMB	40 RMB (Business Class: 76 RMB)
D6706	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	15:43	16:03	26 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
G9396	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	17:07	17:26	21 min	25 RMB	40 RMB (Business Class: 76 RMB)
D6708	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	17:27	17:47	22 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
G7836	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	18:15	18:35	22 min	25 RMB	40 RMB (Business Class: 76 RMB)
D1018	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	18:47	19:07	23 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
G2488	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	19:22	19:42	23 min	25 RMB	40 RMB (Business Class: 76 RMB)
D6710	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	19:42	20:02	22 min	20 RMB	32 RMB
D1028	Badaling Great Wall	Qinghe	20:43	21:03	22 min	20 RMB	32 RMB

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This table provides the key information for trains from Badaling Great Wall Station to Qinghe Station, including the different travel durations and ticket prices for second and first classes, as well as business class where available.

Getting from Badaling Great Wall Train Station to the Ticketing Offices, Cable Car Station and Tower 1

After exiting Badaling Great Wall Train Station, you will enter an open compound where you’ll find:

A ticket office to purchase your Great Wall entry tickets.

A shop offering food, snacks, and practical items such as hats, gloves (for winter), and sunglasses (for summer).

Directions to the Cable Car Station (Up to Tower 7):

Turn right and walk approximately 200 meters to reach the Cable Car Station.

From here, take the cable car up to Tower 7. Once at Tower 7, you can: Hike downward toward Tower 1, or

Continue exploring upward and downward to Tower 12.

Typically, there is no need for a return trip on the cable car, as most visitors descend the Wall by foot.

Directions to Tower 1 (Accessible Area):

Turn left and walk about 1.5 kilometers to reach Tower 1.

This route is ideal for those who prefer hiking or require wheelchair-accessible paths.

Shuttle Buses: Intermittent free shuttle buses are available, connecting the train station and the parking lot near Tower 1. However, many visitors enjoy walking to Tower 1 instead.

Near Tower 1 of the Badaling Great Wall, visitors will find a variety of dining and accommodation options to enhance their experience. For quick refreshments or a familiar taste, there are popular international chains like McDonald’s, Starbucks and Subway. If you’re looking for more substantial meals, the area also features several local restaurants offering authentic Chinese cuisine, including traditional northern-style dishes such as dumplings, noodles, and hearty stews.

For accommodations, the Badaling Hotel is a convenient option for those wishing to stay close to this iconic landmark. It provides easy access to the Great Wall while offering a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploration. Additionally, some nearby guesthouses and boutique hotels may provide a more traditional or rustic experience for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

The area is well-equipped to cater to tourists, so whether you’re in search of a quick snack, a satisfying meal, or a place to unwind, you’ll find suitable options near Tower 1 of the Badaling Great Wall.

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Additional Tips:

Crowded Sections: Expect congestion in the area between Towers 8 and 9, which is particularly popular.

Alternative Descent: Slides are available for a fun and unique way to descend.

Quiet Starting Point: For a more peaceful experience, consider starting your visit at Tower 1, which is less crowded and perfect for those who enjoy a quieter hike.

By choosing the route and starting point that suit your preferences, you can fully enjoy your visit to the iconic Badaling Great Wall.

Tip for Visitors with Limited Mobility: This stop ( Tower 1) is ideal for slow walkers or wheelchair users. Tower 1 is accessible, with ramps and a gentler incline for an easier climb.

3. Driving to Badaling

For travelers preferring flexibility, renting a car or hiring a taxi provides direct access to Badaling Great Wall. The journey typically takes about 1.5 hours from downtown Beijing via the G6 Beijing-Tibet Expressway.

Parking facilities are available near the entrance of Badaling, making it a convenient option for those with specific time constraints or looking to explore nearby attractions at their own pace.

4. How to Visit Badaling Great Wall

The Badaling Great Wall is divided into two sections—the north and south sections—which both begin at the Badaling Pass and Gate. Most visitors prefer to climb the north section, where the highest watchtower (Tower No. 08) is located.

The north section also offers a cable car, and many people choose to hike up the Great Wall and take the cable car down, or vice versa. The upper cable car station is located just below Tower No. 08 and Tower No. 09, which can attract large crowds.

For a more serene experience, we recommend hiking from Tower No. 01 and returning the same way instead of taking the cable car.

The South Section VS the North Section

Length:
South Section: 1.3 km long, with 7 watchtowers.
North Section: 2.565 km long, with 12 watchtowers.

Slope:
South Section: The incline is relatively gentle, making it suitable for hiking, especially for visitors with elderly or young family members.
North Section: The incline is steeper, particularly between Watchtowers 8 and 12, which requires a good level of physical fitness.

Facilities:
South Section: Fewer facilities, though there is a ground cable car that goes directly to Watchtower 4.
North Section: More developed facilities, including an aerial cable car and ropeway, allowing visitors to enjoy high vantage points.

Scenery:
South Section: Offers beautiful, open views with fewer tourists, making it ideal for photography.
North Section: The scenery is even more impressive, especially at the “Hero Slope” and Watchtower 8, though this section tends to be more crowded.

Visitor Numbers:
South Section: Fewer visitors, suitable for those seeking a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
North Section: Busier, especially around the Hero Slope and Watchtower 8, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more challenging hike and vibrant atmosphere.

Beijing Bus Free Shuttle for Badaling Scenic Area:

Operating Hours

• Departure Station First/Last Bus: 06:00–16:00
• Final Station First/Last Bus: 06:15–16:15

Stops Along the Route

1. Badaling Heilongtan Parking Lot (Wildlife Park Entrance)
2. Badaling Rear Mountain Hiking Entrance (passing stop)
3. Badaling Rear Mountain Cable Car Entrance

5. Badaling Great Wall: Accessibility at Its Best

The Badaling Great Wall stands out as the most wheelchair-friendly segment of the Great Wall. This part has undergone significant renovations to cater to the needs of visitors with mobility challenges.

Certain area around Tower 1 of the Badaling Great Wall is accessible for wheelchair users, though there are some limitations.

Some sections of the Badaling Great Wall have relatively flat surfaces that allow wheelchair access. However, due to the unique architectural structure of the Wall, certain areas may have steep steps or narrow pathways, which may require folding or carrying the wheelchair.

Additionally, the Badaling Great Wall provides wheelchair rentals. Visitors can register and pay a deposit at the Visitor Service Center to use wheelchairs free of charge.

To facilitate access, the site also offers vertical lifts and accessible ramps, allowing wheelchair users to reach the East Platform of the Great Wall. The area is equipped with information service stations, clean restrooms, and accessible facilities.

In summary, while small parts of the Badaling Great Wall are wheelchair-friendly, visitors should be mindful of the terrain and plan their routes accordingly.

6. Entrance Fees and Opening Hours

Badaling Great Wall Ticket Prices

Ticket prices vary depending on the season and ticket type.

Peak Season (April 1 to October 31):

• Adult Ticket: 40 RMB per person
• Student Ticket: 20 RMB per person (valid student ID required)
• Night Ticket: 198 RMB on weekdays, 298 RMB on weekends and holidays

Off-Peak Season (November 1 to March 31):

• Adult Ticket: 35 RMB per person
• Student Ticket: 17.5 RMB per person (valid student ID required)

In addition, Badaling Great Wall offers other services, such as round-trip aerial cable cars or ground cable cars, with prices ranging from 100 RMB to 140 RMB depending on the specific service chosen.

Badaling Great Wall Opening Hours

The opening hours of the Badaling Great Wall vary by season.

Peak Season (April 1 to October 31):

• Daytime Hours: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• Nighttime Hours: 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Off-Peak Season (November 1 to March 31):

• Daytime Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM

During holidays, the Great Wall also offers nighttime visits with hours from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM each evening.

7. More Transfer Options Going to or from Badaling Great Wall

1) Traveling from Badaling to the Ming Tombs

The Ming Tombs, located about 30 kilometers from Badaling, are a remarkable site housing the mausoleums of emperors from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 AD). Visiting both Badaling and the Ming Tombs in one trip is convenient and highly recommended. After you finish exploring Badaling, you can easily reach the Ming Tombs by taking bus 879 directly from the Badaling area. Bus 879 is just next to Bus 877, easy to find.

2) Getting to Badaling from Beijing South Railway Station

Subway and Bus Option: Take subway line 4 to Xuanwumen, switch to line 2, and travel to Jishuitan Station. From there, take bus 877.

Subway and High-Speed Train via Qinghe: Take line 4 to Xizhimen Station, transfer to line 13, and disembark at Qinghe for a high-speed train to Badaling.

Direct Train from Beijing North: Ride line 4 to Xizhimen, then walk to Beijing North Railway Station to board a high-speed train.

3）Traveling from Beijing West Railway Station to Badaling

Bus Route: Take bus line 143 to Deshengmen and transfer to bus 877.

Subway and High-Speed Train via Qinghe: Take subway line 9 to National Library, transfer to line 4 to Xizhimen, then switch to line 13 to Qinghe and take a high-speed train to Badaling.

Direct Train from Beijing North: Take subway line 9 to National Library, transfer to line 4 to Xizhimen Station, and walk to Beijing North Railway Station to board a high-speed train to Badaling.

4) Traveling from Beijing Daxing Airport to Badaling Great Wall

Subway and Bus Route: Take the Daxing Airport Express to Caoqiao Station, then transfer to subway line 10 and ride to Beitucheng Station. Transfer again to line 8 and continue to National Art Museum Station. From here, switch to line 6 and go to Jishuitan Station. Exit and walk to Deshengmen to catch bus 877 to Badaling.

Subway and High-Speed Train via Qinghe: Take the Daxing Airport Express to Caoqiao Station, transfer to line 10, and ride to Zhichunlu Station. From Zhichunlu, transfer to line 13 and go to Qinghe Railway Station, where you can take a high-speed train directly to Badaling.

5) How to Reach Badaling from Capital International Airport

By Subway and Bus: Take the Airport Express to Dongzhimen Station. Transfer to subway line 2 and ride to Jishuitan Station. Exit from B2 and walk about 500 meters (550 yards) east to Deshengmen to catch bus 877 to Badaling.

Via Qinghe Railway Station: Take the Airport Express to Dongzhimen, transfer to line 13, and get off at Qinghe Railway Station. From there, take a high-speed train directly to Badaling.