Overview
The Great Wall is a series of fortifications built and rebuilt over many centuries across northern China; most of the sections visitors see near Beijing date from the Ming dynasty. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
Mutianyu, about 70 km north-east of central Beijing, is a well-restored section with many watchtowers, wooded hills and fewer crowds than Badaling. Other popular sections include Badaling, Jinshanling and Simatai.
Best time to visit
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) have mild, clear weather; autumn colours are lovely. Summers are hot and busy, and winters cold but quiet. Avoid Chinese public holidays if you can.
Highlights
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1
Mutianyu watchtowers
A long, restored stretch with closely spaced towers and wide views.
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2
Cable car and chairlift
Lifts carry visitors up to the wall, saving a steep climb.
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3
Toboggan
A summer-season slide down from the wall to the base area.
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4
Other sections
Badaling is the most visited; Jinshanling is known for hiking on partly restored wall.
Getting there
Mutianyu is about 1.5–2 hours by road from central Beijing; tour buses, private cars and some public buses run there. Badaling can also be reached by train.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, ticket rules and any visitor limits change, so check the official information before you go.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day from Beijing.
Official information: UNESCO: The Great Wall. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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