How to Visit the Great Wall of China around Beijing?
Which Part of the Great Wall Should You Visit?
The Great Wall stretches 13,171 miles, and different sections vary in preservation and accessibility. For visiting from Beijing, consider the Gubei Water Town entrance or the Mutianyu entrance.
Gubei Water Town
The Gubei Water Town entrance is about an hour and forty-five minutes from Beijing’s city center. If you’re comfortable with Mandarin, public transportation is an affordable option. This reconstructed village from the Qing Dynasty surrounds the Duck Lake Reservoir and sits next to the steep Simatai section of the Wall. Here, you’ll find restaurants, bars, and facilities. You can hike or take a gondola up to the Wall, enjoying stunning mountain views. This visit offers a structured experience with other tourists.
Mutianyu Wall Entrance
On my first trip to China, I visited the Mutianyu section. It’s more organized than Gubei and known for its architectural significance. Although public transport can be confusing, I recommend hiring a car if you’re not fluent in Mandarin. At Mutianyu, you can take a chairlift to the top and enjoy a thrilling alpine slide back down! This section has basic facilities and is the best option for those with mobility concerns. If you need wheelchair accessibility, consider visiting Badaling.
There are many ways to access the Great Wall, and these are just two options I recommend. If you have questions, feel free to reach out!
To make the most of your visit to the Great Wall of China, follow this insider guide:
1. Choose the Best Times to Visit
Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–November) are ideal for avoiding crowds and extreme temperatures. Spring brings blooming flowers and greenery, while Fall showcases vibrant foliage. Though summer and winter visits are possible, summer is crowded and hot, and winter can be icy with fewer visitors.
2. Select the Most Suitable Section to Visit
Recommended Sections:
| Section | Travel Time from Beijing | Scenery/Photography (/5) | Physical Demands (/5) | Crowding (/5) | Tourism Development | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badaling | 1.5 hours | 4 | 2 | 5 | Restored | Families, kids, seniors |
| Mutianyu | 1.5 hours | 4 | 2 | 4 | Restored | Families, kids, seniors |
| Simatai | 2 hours | 4 | 4 | 3 | Wild | Adventurous hikers |
| Jiankou | 2.5 hours | 5 | 5 | 1 | Wild | Strong hikers, adventurers |
Recommendations: Avoid Badaling for crowds; Mutianyu is great for families. For a less crowded experience, try Jiankou or Simatai. Simatai is unique for its nighttime visits, and Gubei Water Town nearby offers excellent accommodation options.
3. Learn How to Get to the Great Wall
You can reach sections like Badaling and Mutianyu by public bus, taxi, or bullet train. For a more comfortable experience, consider private transfers with an English-speaking guide, which will save you time and hassle.
4. Spend a Night at the Great Wall or Go Camping
An overnight stay allows you to enjoy the Wall at sunrise and sunset without crowds. Recommended accommodations include:
- Gubei Water Town near Simatai, with luxury and boutique hotels.
- Brickyard Retreat at Mutianyu, an eco-friendly hotel with great views.
- Commune by the Great Wall near Badaling, featuring unique architectural designs.
Camping
Camping is only permitted at wild sections like Jiankou. Be prepared with your own equipment, as local shops are sparse.
5. Consider Having a Guide for Your Great Wall Trip
Hiring a guide is beneficial, especially for wild sections where it’s easy to get lost. A knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience by sharing the rich history and stories of the Great Wall.
Additional Tips
- Food: Restored sections have restaurants offering local cuisine, while wild sections require you to bring your own food.
- Accessibility: Badaling and Mutianyu offer wheelchair-friendly options.
Whether you’re hiking the wild parts or enjoying a family-friendly visit, proper planning ensures a memorable trip to this iconic wonder!
