As one of the ‘new’ seven wonders of the world, you likely already know about the Great Wall of China. Often on travel bucket lists, The Great Wall is a bastion of historical integrity and offers some of the best views in China.
If you are considering visiting this ancient marvel, we’ve got a few tips to help you plan your trip. In this article, we will give you a full rundown of what to expect when you visit the Great Wall of China, including background about the wall, how you can get there and the best sections to visit for your trip.
We will also give some recommendations of where to stay near the Great Wall and provide some top tips to make your excursion a real treat.
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The Great Wall of China stands as a monumental testament to China’s rich history and enduring heritage. Its origins trace back over two millennia, with construction dating as far back as the 7th century BC. It is such a significant monument in human history that it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Initially built by various states and dynasties as separate defensive fortifications, it was during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) that the walls were largely connected, forming the foundation of the iconic structure we recognise today. With its strategic significance, the wall witnessed expansions, renovations, and enhancements across many centuries.
The Great Wall of China’s length spans approximately 21,196 km and crosses 15 of China’s provinces. Unfortunately, the claim that it can be seen from space is false, but down on Earth, nothing is stopping you from seeing it with your own eyes.
Since the wall stretches out over such a long distance, there are many different ways to access the site. We recommend visiting from the capital Beijing, as some of the most accessible sections, like Badaling and Mutianyu, are just an hour and a half away.
From Beijing, you can get a train at Huangtudian Railway Station that will get you to the Great Wall in just 1.5 hours. That said, traversing China’s public transport can be quite tricky, as there is minimal English signage. For a more convenient trip, consider hiring an English-speaking driver who will also be able to guide you through the top sites on the Great Wall.
The biggest consideration when visiting the Great Wall of China is which section you want to visit. Some sections are much more popular and have large tourist groups at all times of the year. Alternatively, there are some wilder sections of the wall which can be a real delight for their stunning natural views, but can make for a more demanding hike.
You can easily do multiple sections if you are staying for an extended period, but you will want to dedicate at least half a day to each. Below, we give you some details about the best sections of the Great Wall for your visit and what to expect when you arrive.
If you want to see the Great Wall of China in all its glory, the best section to visit is Badaling. Situated in the beautiful Yan Mountains, Badaling is easily reachable from Beijing in just under 2 hours. This part of the wall is one of the most popular among local and foreign tourists and is one of the best destinations for a guided day trip.
The section includes 7km of well-restored fortifications, so don’t be afraid to venture out and explore to beat the bustling groups of tourists. Be sure to check out the watchtowers dotted along the wall, where you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Since Badaling is very popular, you can find many shops and restaurants here that will help bulk out your visit. You can also take time to explore the Great Wall Museum. The building is designed to imitate the structure of the walls and includes 9 exhibition halls which detail the fascinating history of China’s greatest monument.
Juyongguan is one of the closest sections of the Great Wall to Beijing, located just 50 km northwest of the city centre. It is also one of the most accessible, as it is very close to the highway and there is a car park just below the Pass Towers.
Juyongguan played a significant role in safeguarding Beijing and the northern territories from invading forces in ancient times. Its strategic position in the mountain pass provided a great natural defence and its position also established it as a very important trade route.
Known as the “Valley Pass,” Juyongguan showcases both natural beauty and historical significance. The lush surroundings complement its well-preserved structures, creating a serene yet impactful visit. At the very top of the pass, visitors can find the stunning Cloud Platform Pavillion after ascending a steep staircase.
Mutianyu enjoys fewer crowds than sections like Badaling, making it a great choice for travellers seeking a serene experience of the Great Wall. Taking a guided tour of Mutianyu is a great choice for those who want a varied visit, with great views, ancient architecture and even exciting activities.
Mutianyu will appeal to both history buffs and nature enthusiasts. It is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, as from atop the wall you can look out onto the verdant hills of northern China. The cable car provides equally beautiful mountain vistas and a convenient means of accessing the Great Wall.
The fortifications at Mutianyu are very well restored, but there are also some original sections of the wall left which provide insight into the ancient origins of the Great Wall. This section dates as far back as the Qi Dynasty from 550 CE. During the much later Ming Dynasty, much of the original wall was reconstructed and further fortified.
Once you’ve explored Mutianyu, you can either get the cable car back down the wall or you can take the thrilling toboggan ride. On the toboggan, you can enjoy amazing views of the natural scenery while you glide along the rails at high speeds. It’s a uniquely fun experience and a great way to round off your visit.
For an authentic experience of the wall’s original state, Simitai is the top choice. This section is much more remote, being 120 km from Beijing. Simitai is less visited than other sections and is known for its rugged allure, unrestored features and wild beauty.
Hikers will have a great time at Simitai since it is one of the better sections for walking tours. The routes can be quite challenging, as the majority of this section is unrestored and some parts have heavily eroded. It’s a more challenging hike, but you will be rewarded for your efforts with unspoiled beauty and a glimpse into the ancient construction.
This section of the Great Wall of China is more suited for experienced outdoor travellers who want to test themselves. Even so, you may be compelled to visit Simitai for the unique opportunity to enjoy a nighttime tour. Simitai is known for offering starlit tours of the wall and its remote location provides minimal light pollution for a truly unforgettable experience.
Another section of the wall that is more suited to travellers seeking rugged beauty and wilderness walks is Jiankou. A haven for adventure seekers, Jiankou boasts steep and challenging terrains. Its wild and unrestored state provides an authentic, rustic experience that’s unmatched by other sections.
Situated in Huairou, 100km north of Beijing, this is perhaps one of the most unvisited sections. You won’t find a ticket office here, nor are there cable cars or gift shops. You will simply see the stretch of wall as it rises and falls along the graceful peaks. It is an idyllic sight that is perfect for those who want to avoid tourist crowds.
The Jiankou section has been largely untouched since the original Ming Dynasty fortifications. Due to its rough terrain, the construction of Jiankou was quite difficult, which resulted in its distinctive, raw appearance. It’s one of the best sections of the Great Wall of China to visit if you are more intrigued by the original state of the wall rather than the appeal of modern restorations.
You can purchase your tickets when you arrive at the Great Wall. Prices can vary depending on what time of year you visit. During the summer, entrance fees range from 40-65 Yuan (£4.35-£6.52), but from November to March prices drop to 35-55 Yuan (£3.80-£6.00). If you book a private Great Wall of China tour, the cost of entry is normally included in the price.
If you are planning to take a cable car up to the Great Wall, this will cost an additional 120 Yuan (£13.00) for a round trip. Likewise, if you want to try the daring descent of the Mutianyu toboggan ride, this will cost an extra 100 Yuan (£10.90).
You can find loads of places to stay in Beijing, which would be perfect for your Great Wall of China holiday. However, if you want to stay on the Wall itself or in the nearby area, we’ve got some great suggestions.
If you want to spend as much time as possible at the Great Wall of China, consider staying a night or two at The Great Wall Courtyard Hostel. The simple rooms are equipped with a private bathroom and wifi, making this hostel a great place for an overnight stay while visiting the wall.
For travellers looking for a lavish getaway, Commune by the Great Wall in a stunning retreat near Badaling. The hotel features 176 rooms that are spread across multiple villas, with every room sporting a breathtaking mountain view. You will also find a wonderful array of activities on offer here from stargazing to tai chi, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the Great Wall.
Traversing the Great Wall is one of the most breathtaking travel experiences you can have. Though it may seem intimidating at first, we’ve got some helpful tips to make your visit stress-free.
For starters, the best thing you can do for your visit is to wear appropriate clothing. A Great Wall trip will include a lot of walking and steep inclines if you take the steps up to the wall. Be sure you wear sturdy hiking boots or trainers and pack a light jacket, as there can be cold winds atop the wall.
Another great tip is to be meticulous about when you go to the Great Wall. We previously mentioned that tickets are cheaper outside of the summer high season, but there are also fewer crowds filling up the ancient structures. You will also find the weather in spring and autumn more pleasant for your visit as the days will be much milder, making the strenuous hikes much more bearable.
If you are planning to visit the wild sections of the wall such as Jiankou or Simitai, be sure you travel with a group unless you are a very experienced hiker. The paths can be uneven, difficult to traverse and pose some risks.
There are many campsites dotted along the Great Wall which are perfect for travellers who want to enjoy the great outdoors. More remote sections of the wall can be camped on, but it is worth noting that wild camping is prohibited at Badaling and Mutianyu.
From the awe-inspiring watchtowers that have witnessed centuries of history, to the unparalleled vistas that stretch across this monumental structure, a visit to the Great Wall is an experience that resonates on both a historical and personal level.
As you plan your trip, consider the diverse array of sections available for exploration. Whether you opt for the more accessible Badaling and Mutianyu sections, the rugged authenticity of Jiankou and Simatai, or the serene beauty of Juyongguan, each section offers a unique perspective on this remarkable monument.
If you’ve enjoyed this Great Wall guide, you’ll love our top 10 things to do in Xian post. Or if you’re planning a China trip, check out our China travel guide for some great trip inspiration.
Admission fees will vary depending on which section you choose to visit. General admission for Mutianyu is 40 Yuan (£4.35) for adults, and 20 Yuan (£2.20) for seniors and children under 1.4 metres tall. Children shorter than 1.2 metres can enter for free.
Badaling is the most visited section of the Great Wall. It is one of the easiest parts of the ancient structure to visit and is the starting point of many guided tours. This section is much more restored than others which makes it very easy to visit.
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