7 Beijing Great Wall Attractions, You Should not Miss
🏯 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: ¥40
- Hours: 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Recommended Route: North Line Cable Car → Hao Han Po → North Tower 8 (highest point) → North Towers 9-11
🏰 Juyongguan Great Wall
Closest Great Wall section to downtown Beijing, featuring the “Juyong Greenery” of Yanjing Eight Sights.
- Features: Strategically险要 military fortress
- Ticket: ¥35
- Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Recommended Route: East Line (gentler, partial closure) or West Line (steeper stairs)
🏞️ 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: ¥45
- Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Recommended Route: Cable car to Tower 14 → Walk to Tower 20 (highest point) → Return cable car
🏕️ Shuiguan Great Wall
Quieter V-shaped section east of Badaling, ideal for photography and peaceful sightseeing.
- Ticket: ¥35
- Recommended Route: Enter from South Gate, climb northwards
🌊 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: ¥58
- Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Recommended Route: East Gate → Dam → Shangguan Military Path → Glass Bridge
🏝️ Jinshanling Great Wall
Hebei-section Great Wall known for complex architecture and photography opportunities, split by cable car.
- Features: Most densely packed watchtowers
- Ticket: ¥65
- Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Recommended Route: General Tower → Shalingkou
🎇 Simatai Great Wall
Steep, well-preserved Ming Dynasty section with “five wonders”:险 (steep), 密 (dense), 齐 (neat), 巧 (ingenious), 全 (complete).
- Features: Museum-like preserved original structures
- Ticket: ¥40 (low season) / ¥45 (high season)
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📌 Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection
- Download offline maps due to poor signal
- Bring water/snacks as dining options are limited
