No trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall. Among its many sections, Badaling and Mutianyu stand out as the most popular, each offering a unique perspective of one of the world's greatest engineering achievements. Whether you're seeking iconic views, rich history, or breathtaking mountain scenery, these two sections promise an unforgettable adventure.
The Badaling Great Wall and the Mutianyu Great Wall are two of the most iconic and best-preserved sections of the Great Wall, each offering a unique way to experience one of the world's greatest architectural wonders. Located about 70 kilometers northwest of downtown Beijing, Badaling was the first section of the Great Wall to open to the public and has welcomed millions of visitors from around the world. Originally built during the Warring States Period (475–221 BC) and extensively reconstructed during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), it occupies a strategic mountain pass that guarded the city for more than 2,000 years. Its massive stone walls, imposing watchtowers, and sweeping mountain vistas showcase the Great Wall at its most magnificent.
Nestled among the forested mountains of Beijing's Huairou district, the Mutianyu Great Wall offers a quieter and more scenic alternative. Also rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty, it was an important defensive stronghold protecting Beijing and the imperial tombs. With more than 96 percent forest coverage, this beautifully preserved section winds gracefully along lush mountain ridges, connecting a series of impressive watchtowers and providing some of the most spectacular views anywhere along the Great Wall.
Whether you choose the grandeur of Badaling or the tranquility of Mutianyu, walking along these ancient battlements allows you to follow in the footsteps of emperors, soldiers, and travelers through centuries of Chinese history — and experience the spirit behind the famous Chinese saying: "He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true hero".
Don't miss
1. Climb to the highest accessible watchtowers for breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Wall snaking across the rugged mountains.
2. Walk through the imposing fortress gates and imagine the soldiers who once defended this vital gateway to Beijing during the Ming Dynasty.
3. Capture the classic Great Wall photo from one of the elevated viewpoints, where the Great Wall stretches endlessly over the mountain ridges.
4. Experience the Great Wall in different seasons — from spring blossoms and lush summer greenery to fiery autumn foliage and snow-covered winter landscapes.
Best time to visit
Every season offers a different experience:
• Spring (March-May): Blossoming flowers brighten the surrounding hills.
• Summer (June-August): Lush green mountains create stunning scenery.
• Autumn (September-November): Brilliant red and golden foliage transforms the landscape.
• Winter (December-February): Snow-covered walls create a magical, peaceful atmosphere.
Badaling Great Wall
Practical info & Getting there
Address: Exit 58, G6 Beijing-Zhangjiakou Expressway, Yanqing district, Beijing
Ticket prices:
Tourist season (April 1- Oct 31): 40 yuan ($5.90)/person
Tourist off-season (Nov 1 -March 31): 35 yuan/person
Getting there:
By high-speed train (recommended): Take the Beijing-Zhangjiakou High-Speed Railway from Beijing North Railway Station or Qinghe Railway Station to Badaling Great Wall Railway Station. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. From the station, it's just a short walk to the entrance of the scenic area. Advance booking through the official 12306 ticketing platform is recommended.
Mutianyu Great Wall
Practical info & Getting there
Address: Mutianyu village, Bohai town, Huairou district, Beijing
Ticket price: 40 yuan ($5.90)/person
Getting there
By car (recommended): From downtown Beijing, take the Jingcheng Expressway (G45) and take Exit 13 (Beitai Lu), and then follow the signs to the scenic area. The drive is about 70 km and typically takes around 1.5 hours in light traffic.
Which Great Wall should you visit?
• Choose Badaling if you're visiting the Great Wall for the first time and want to experience its most famous and accessible section.
• Choose Mutianyu if you prefer spectacular natural scenery, fewer crowds, and a more leisurely hiking experience.
• Have time for both? Each section offers a completely different atmosphere, making them well worth exploring on separate days.
