7 Beijing Great Wall Attractions, You Should not Miss
π― Badaling Great Wall
Badaling is the most famous and busiest Great Wall section near Beijing, offering night tours with illuminated views. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Historical Background: Its origins trace back to the Warring States Period, reinforced during Qin Shi Huang’s reign.
- Features: Known for “Jade Pass Sky Chasm” scenery and the iconic “He who hasn’t climbed the Great Wall is no hero” slogan.
- Ticket: Β₯40
- Hours: 6:30 AM β 4:30 PM
- Recommended Route: North Line Cable Car β Hao Han Po β North Tower 8 (highest point) β North Towers 9-11
π° Juyongguan Great Wall
Closest Great Wall section to downtown Beijing, featuring the “Juyong Greenery” of Yanjing Eight Sights.
- Features: Strategicallyι©θ¦ military fortress
- Ticket: Β₯35
- Hours: 6:30 AM β 5:30 PM
- Recommended Route: East Line (gentler, partial closure) or West Line (steeper stairs)
ποΈ Mutianyu Great Wall
Less crowded with stunning photo spots like the unique triple-towered Watchtower No.3. Best visited on sunny days.
- Historical Background: Built in 550 AD during Northern Qi Dynasty, expanded by Ming Dynasty
- Features: Rare triple-towered Zhenguan Terrace
- Ticket: Β₯45
- Hours: 7:30 AM β 6:00 PM
- Recommended Route: Cable car to Tower 14 β Walk to Tower 20 (highest point) β Return cable car
ποΈ Shuiguan Great Wall
Quieter V-shaped section east of Badaling, ideal for photography and peaceful sightseeing.
- Ticket: Β₯35
- Recommended Route: Enter from South Gate, climb northwards
π Huanghuacheng Lakeside Great Wall
Unique water-connected section with spring peach blossoms and lake views. Includes boat rides.
- Features: Only Great Wall section with water integration
- Ticket: Β₯58
- Hours: 6:30 AM β 5:30 PM
- Recommended Route: East Gate β Dam β Shangguan Military Path β Glass Bridge
ποΈ Jinshanling Great Wall
Hebei-section Great Wall known for complex architecture and photography opportunities, split by cable car.
- Features: Most densely packed watchtowers
- Ticket: Β₯65
- Hours: 6:30 AM β 5:30 PM
- Recommended Route: General Tower β Shalingkou
π Simatai Great Wall
Steep, well-preserved Ming Dynasty section with “five wonders”:ι© (steep), ε― (dense), ι½ (neat), ε·§ (ingenious), ε ¨ (complete).
- Features: Museum-like preserved original structures
- Ticket: Β₯40 (low season) / Β₯45 (high season)
- Hours: 9:00 AM β 5:00 PM
π Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection
- Download offline maps due to poor signal
- Bring water/snacks as dining options are limited
