Plan your Great Wall Tour? The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, stretching over 13,000 miles across China. When visiting Beijing, the Great Wall is a must-see attraction. However, with numerous sections accessible from the city, choosing the right part of the Wall to visit can be overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the different sections around Beijing, including Mutianyu, Jinshanling, Badaling, Jiankou, and more, and provide detailed instructions on how to get there.
Badaling: The Most Popular Section
Why Visit Badaling?
Badaling is the most visited and well-preserved section of the Great Wall, offering a glimpse into its grandeur and historical significance. It is fully restored and features amenities like cable cars, making it accessible for tourists of all ages and physical conditions. This section is ideal for those who want a comfortable and easy visit with well-maintained paths and facilities.
How to Get There
- By Train: Take the S2 train from Beijing North Railway Station to Badaling Railway Station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, a free shuttle bus will take you to the entrance.
- By Bus: Catch bus No. 877 from Deshengmen Bus Station. The bus ride takes around 1.5 hours and drops you off close to the entrance.
- By Car: Hiring a private car or taxi is another option, offering the convenience of direct transport. The drive from downtown Beijing takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Mutianyu: The Best for Scenic Views
Why Visit Mutianyu?
Mutianyu is known for its stunning scenery, fewer crowds, and well-preserved structures. It features a cable car, chairlift, and a toboggan slide for an exciting descent. This section is perfect for families and those looking for beautiful landscapes and a less crowded experience.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take bus No. 916 from Dongzhimen Bus Station to Huairou North Avenue, then transfer to bus H23, H24, H35, or H36 to Mutianyu Roundabout. From there, a shuttle bus or a short taxi ride will take you to the entrance.
- By Car: A private car or taxi ride from downtown Beijing to Mutianyu takes about 1.5 hours, offering a convenient and direct option.
- By Tour: Consider booking a tour that includes transport. Many tours offer pickup from your hotel and provide a hassle-free way to visit Mutianyu.
Jinshanling: The Best for Hiking
Why Visit Jinshanling?
Jinshanling is renowned for its stunning vistas and hiking opportunities. It is partially restored, giving visitors a mix of original and restored sections. This section is ideal for hikers and adventure seekers who want to experience the Wall in a more authentic and less crowded setting.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Wangjing West Station to Luanping, then transfer to a local taxi for a short ride to Jinshanling. The entire journey takes around 2-3 hours.
- By Car: A private car or taxi ride takes about 2.5 hours from downtown Beijing. This is the most direct way to reach Jinshanling and is ideal for those who prefer comfort and convenience.
Jiankou: The Wild and Adventurous Section
Why Visit Jiankou?
Jiankou is famous for its rugged and wild scenery. It is mostly unrestored and offers challenging hikes with steep ascents and descents. This section is perfect for experienced hikers and photographers looking for dramatic and untouched landscapes.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take bus No. 916 from Dongzhimen to Huairou North Avenue, then hire a local taxi to take you to the Jiankou section. The taxi ride from Huairou takes about an hour.
- By Car: Hiring a private car or taxi from downtown Beijing is the best option, taking around 2.5 hours. Ensure your driver knows the exact location of the Jiankou trailhead, as it is less visited and more difficult to find.
Simatai: The Best for Night Visits
Why Visit Simatai?
Simatai is the only section of the Great Wall open for night visits, offering a unique experience. It is partially restored and provides stunning views both day and night. This section is ideal for those who want a different perspective and the adventure of walking the Wall under the stars.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Dongzhimen Bus Station to Gubei Water Town. From there, you can walk or take a shuttle bus to the Simatai entrance. The entire journey takes about 2-3 hours.
- By Car: A private car or taxi ride takes about 2.5 hours from downtown Beijing. This is a convenient option, especially if you plan to stay late for the night tour.
Huanghuacheng: The Water Great Wall
Why Visit Huanghuacheng?
Huanghuacheng is unique because it features sections of the Wall that run alongside and even underwater, creating a picturesque setting. This section is perfect for visitors looking for a scenic and less crowded experience with the added beauty of lakes and reservoirs.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take bus No. 916 from Dongzhimen to Huairou, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Huanghuacheng. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
- By Car: A private car or taxi ride takes about 2 hours from downtown Beijing. This option offers flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan to explore the area at your own pace.
Gubeikou: The Best for History Enthusiasts
Why Visit Gubeikou?
Gubeikou is a historically significant section of the Great Wall with many original structures. It offers moderate hikes and is less visited, making it ideal for history buffs and those seeking a quieter experience.
How to Get There
- By Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Dongzhimen Bus Station to Gubeikou. The journey takes around 2-3 hours. From the bus stop, a short walk or taxi ride will take you to the Wall entrance.
- By Car: A private car or taxi ride takes about 2.5 hours from downtown Beijing. This option is convenient and allows for a flexible schedule.
Choosing the right section of the Great Wall to visit depends on your interests, physical condition, and time available. Whether you seek the convenience and amenities of Badaling, the scenic beauty of Mutianyu, the hiking challenges of Jinshanling, the wild adventure of Jiankou, the unique night experience of Simatai, the picturesque waters of Huanghuacheng, or the historical depth of Gubeikou, each section offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
With detailed instructions on “Which Part of the Great Wall Should I Visit“, you can confidently plan your visit to one of the most remarkable wonders of the world. Safe travels!
