About Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring landmarks in the world, stretching over 13,000 miles across northern China. Originally constructed as a defensive fortification, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a symbol of ancient Chinese engineering brilliance and enduring cultural legacy.
Being the longest man-made structure in the world, having historical value, offering panoramic vistas, and being an amazing example of old military fortification.
History of Great Wall of China
The origin of the Great Wall dates back to as early as the 7th century BCE, when small walls were built by Chinese states. However, the most significant and lasting constructions were carried out during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). The main goal was to protect Chinese land from attacks by nomadic tribes and foes like the Mongols.
The Wall isn't just one long line; it's a network of fortifications and fortresses that have been built over hundreds of years. This makes it an everlasting symbol of Chinese might and strategy.
Mesmerizing Views of Great Wall of China
Why Visit the Great Wall of China?
Routes for Great Wall of China
Distance from Beijing: ~75 km (46 miles)
Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
🚆 By Train (Best Option for Budget Travelers)
Train Line: Beijing North Railway Station → Badaling Great Wall Railway Station
Train Name: High-Speed Train (S2 Line or new suburban trains)
Duration: ~70–80 minutes
Cost: ~CNY 7–15
Tip: Book early on weekends or holidays. You’ll still need a shuttle or cable car to reach the Wall from the station.
🚌 By Bus
Bus Route: Bus 877 from Deshengmen Bus Station
Duration: ~90 minutes (without traffic)
Cost: ~CNY 12
Departs: Every 20 minutes from early morning
Note: It’s a direct route to the Badaling Scenic Area.
🚖 By Taxi / Private Car
Duration: ~1.5 hours (depending on traffic)
Cost: CNY 300–500 round trip
Best For: Families or groups who prefer a flexible schedule.
🌄 2. Mutianyu – Stunning Views & Fewer Crowds
Distance from Beijing: ~80 km (50 miles)
Travel Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
🚌 By Bus + Shuttle
Step 1: Take Bus 916 Express from Dongzhimen Bus Station to Huairou North Avenue (怀柔北大街).
Step 2: Transfer to a local minibus or shuttle van to Mutianyu Scenic Area.
Duration: ~2.5 hours total
Cost: ~CNY 25–35 combined
Tip: Make sure to take the Express version (916快) to avoid unnecessary stops.
🚗 By Taxi / Private Car / Didi
Duration: ~90 minutes
Cost: CNY 400–600
Didi (China's Uber): More flexible and safer than regular taxis.
Note: Ideal for tourists who want to avoid transfers.
🚐 By Tour Bus / Group Tour
Options: Book via travel sites or hotel concierge
Includes: Round trip, guide, and entrance tickets
Cost: CNY 300–500 depending on group size
Advantage: No logistics to worry about
⛰️ 3. Jinshanling – Ideal for Serious Hikers
Distance from Beijing: ~130 km (81 miles)
Travel Time: ~2.5–3 hours
🚍 By Long-Distance Bus + Shuttle
Step 1: Take a long-distance bus from Wangjing West Bus Station to Luanping County.
Step 2: Hire a local taxi (~CNY 50–80) or shuttle to the Jinshanling entrance.
Duration: ~3 hours
Cost: ~CNY 80–100 total
Challenge: Less signage in English; basic Chinese helps
🚖 By Private Car or Tour
Cost: CNY 700–1,000 round trip
Ideal For: Adventure seekers, photographers, and those seeking fewer tourists
🌉 4. Simatai – Authentic Night Experience & Adventure
Distance from Beijing: ~120 km (75 miles)
Travel Time: ~2.5–3 hours
🚌 By Bus + Shuttle
Step 1: Take a tourist bus from Dongzhimen to Gubei Water Town (古北水镇) – adjacent to Simatai section
Step 2: Walk or take shuttle bus inside the Water Town to Simatai Gate
Bus Type: Tourist Shuttle (reservations required)
Cost: ~CNY 48 one way
Tip: Simatai requires advance reservations, especially for night tours
🏨 Stay Overnight (Optional)
Why: Simatai offers a nighttime wall walk—a unique feature
Where: Gubei Water Town hotels or guesthouses nearby
✍️ Routes summary Table
| Section | Best For | Public Transport (from Beijing) | Duration | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badaling | First-time visitors | Train S2 / Bus 877 | 1.5 hrs | CNY 7–15 |
| Mutianyu | Scenic views, fewer rowds | Bus 916 + Shuttle / Taxi | 2 hrs | CNY 25–600 |
| Jinshanling | Hiking & photography | Bus to Luanping + Taxi/Shuttle | 3 hrs | CNY 80–100 |
| Simatai | Night experience & authentic vibe | Bus to Gubei Water Town + Shuttle | 2.5 hrs | CNY 48+ |
Facts about Great Wall of China
Interesting Facts About Great Wall of China You Should Know Before Visiting
- If you laid all the bricks of the Great Wall end-to-end, they would circle the Earth more than once!.
Plan Your Visit: Great Wall of China
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Great Wall of China: Stay Options, Activities, and Packing Tips
Best Time to Visit
Visit during spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for mild weather and breathtaking scenery when the wall weaves through green hills or golden forests.
Accommodation
There are no hotels on the Wall, but nearby towns and Beijing offer a range of options:
Budget Hostels: For backpackers and solo travelers
Mid-range Hotels: Comfortable stays near Wall entrances
Luxury Resorts: Relax after your hike in style
Activities
Hiking: Choose easy or strenuous routes across breathtaking landscapes.
Photography: Capture iconic sunrise/sunset scenes from the wall.
Historical Tours: Learn about dynasties, architecture, and battles from expert guides.
Things to Pack
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
🧢 Hat and sunscreen
💧 Water and snacks
📷 Camera for scenic photography
🧥 Layered clothing for varying weather