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