The Great Wall of China is a must-see attraction for travelers, and two of the most popular sections are Badaling and Juyongguan. While both offer a chance to experience this ancient wonder, they each come with their own set of advantages and challenges. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which one suits your visit best.
Accessibility and Difficulty
Badaling: Known for its accessibility, Badaling is the most popular section of the Great Wall, attracting millions of tourists each year. The terrain here is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it a more family-friendly option. Children, elderly visitors, and those with limited mobility will find the walk manageable. The North Line, however, has some steeper sections, especially around the “Hero’s Slope,” which offers a bit more of a challenge. If you’re looking for a less strenuous visit, the South Line is more comfortable.
Juyongguan: Juyongguan is significantly steeper and more challenging than Badaling. The East and West lines of this section are both demanding, with lots of steps and inclines. Hikers who enjoy a more rugged and physically demanding experience will appreciate the challenge. If you’re looking for a more authentic and less touristy Great Wall experience, Juyongguan is a great choice, as it’s less crowded than Badaling.
Scenery and Atmosphere
Badaling: While Badaling offers stunning views, especially from the North Line, its popularity means that it can often feel crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you’re looking for breathtaking panoramas without the distraction of large crowds, you might find Badaling a bit overwhelming. That said, it does offer well-maintained pathways, multiple viewing platforms, and photo opportunities.
Juyongguan: Juyongguan, in contrast, provides a quieter and more serene experience. The scenic beauty here is unmatched, especially in the spring when cherry blossoms blanket the area. Juyongguan also offers dramatic mountain views and a more natural setting compared to the highly commercialized Badaling. The Flower Sea Train, which runs during the blooming season, adds to the unique charm of this section, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Great Wall framed by flowers.
Facilities and Services
Badaling: As the most visited section of the Wall, Badaling is equipped with plenty of modern facilities, including cable cars, rest areas, and snack bars. For those who don’t want to hike the entire section, the cable car offers a quick way to reach the higher points. Badaling also has well-organized parking and public transportation options, including shuttle buses that make it easy to get around. However, the crowds and commercial nature of the area can detract from the experience.
Juyongguan: Juyongguan is a more rustic and less developed section. While it has fewer amenities, it still offers basic services, such as parking and small shops. However, the lack of a cable car means you’ll need to rely on hiking to explore the Wall, which might be a drawback for those looking for a more comfortable visit. That said, the absence of heavy commercialization allows for a more intimate experience with the Great Wall’s historic beauty.
Ticket Prices
Badaling: The ticket price for Badaling is typically around 35 CNY during the off-season, with additional costs for the cable car. The round-trip cable car ticket costs 175 CNY. If you’re visiting during peak seasons or on weekends, you might also need to book tickets in advance through a mobile app.
Juyongguan: Juyongguan is also reasonably priced, with tickets costing 35 CNY during the off-season. There is no cable car available, so if you’re looking for a more physically demanding experience, Juyongguan offers the perfect setting without the additional cost of cable car tickets.
Parking and Transportation
Badaling: Badaling is equipped with ample parking facilities, but due to its popularity, parking can be a challenge during peak seasons. Shuttle buses operate between parking areas and the Wall, ensuring visitors have convenient access, though you may need to wait in line during busy times. Public transport options like the 877 bus, S2 train, and shuttle buses to the Wall make it easy to get to Badaling from Beijing.
Juyongguan: Juyongguan offers free parking at the 3rd parking lot, which is the closest to the Wall. While parking is more convenient, public transport options are limited compared to Badaling. Visitors can take the 919 bus from Deshengmen, or take a suburban train (S2 line) to the nearby Nankou Station, then transfer to buses that stop near the entrance to Juyongguan.
Why Choose Badaling?
Family-Friendly: If you’re traveling with children, elderly family members, or if you’re looking for an easier, less strenuous visit, Badaling is your best option.
Convenience: With modern amenities, including cable cars, restaurants, and shops, Badaling offers a more comfortable and convenient experience.
Larger Variety of Attractions: Badaling is close to other popular attractions, such as the Badaling Wildlife Park, and it’s easily accessible from Beijing.
Why Choose Juyongguan?
Less Crowded: Juyongguan is quieter and more peaceful, offering a chance to experience the Great Wall without the crowds.
More Scenic: Juyongguan offers more dramatic views, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom, and it has a more natural and rugged feel.
Challenging Hike: If you’re an active hiker looking for a challenge, Juyongguan’s steep inclines and rugged terrain will offer the perfect workout.