Beijing, surrounded by stunning mountains, is home to several sections of the Great Wall, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for the most famous, the least crowded, or a perfect blend of history and nature, the Great Wall has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore nine of the most popular and accessible sections of the Great Wall around Beijing, helping you decide which one suits your preferences and needs for a memorable visit.
1. Juyongguan Great Wall (居庸关长城)
Ticket Price: 35 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 60 km
Juyongguan is the closest section of the Great Wall to Beijing city center, making it a popular choice for visitors with limited time. It is known for its majestic “First Pass Under Heaven” gate, which serves as the centerpiece of the site. Climbing the Wall here offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Yanjing Eight Scenic Views. It is a great option if you want to experience the grandeur of the Wall without traveling too far from the city.
2. Shuiguan Great Wall (水关长城)
Ticket Price: 35 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 60 km
Located near Juyongguan, Shuiguan is often overlooked by tourists but is a hidden gem. The Wall here is divided into two sections: the west side, where you can climb up to five beacon towers, and the east side, which has two. Its main appeal is its tranquility, as fewer visitors make it a peaceful escape. It’s an excellent option if you want to enjoy a quieter experience while still exploring a significant part of the Great Wall.
3. Badaling Great Wall (八达岭长城)
Ticket Price: 40 RMB + Round-Trip Cable Car 140 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 60 km
Badaling is the most famous and the largest section of the Great Wall. Known for its grandeur and well-preserved structure, it attracts the largest number of visitors. While the crowds can be overwhelming during holidays, it is a great choice if you want to see the Wall in its most iconic form. For those looking for a unique experience, Badaling also offers a night tour, where you can enjoy the illuminated Wall against the night sky.
4. Xiangshui Lake Great Wall (响水湖长城)
Ticket Price: 42 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 80 km
Xiangshui Lake offers a more rustic experience with two main sections—one restored and the other in its original, crumbling state. The eastern section is the well-maintained part of the Wall, while the western section represents the “wild” or unmaintained Great Wall. The nearby health valley is another attraction, allowing you to enjoy some relaxation and water activities after a day of hiking.
5. Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall (黄花城水长城)
Ticket Price: 58 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 80 km
Huanghuacheng is unique because the Wall stretches through the waters of a lake, providing a scenic and peaceful environment. The best time to visit is in early spring when peach blossoms surround the Wall, creating a picturesque landscape. In addition to walking along the Wall, visitors can also enjoy boating on the lake, making this section a great mix of natural beauty and historical grandeur.
6. Mutianyu Great Wall (慕田峪长城)
Ticket Price: 40 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 80 km
Mutianyu is one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall, second only to Badaling. It is split into two main sections: the west side, where visitors can take a cable car up and down, and the east side, where you can take the cable car up and slide down on a toboggan. The Wall here is less crowded compared to Badaling, offering a more relaxed experience while still providing stunning views of the Wall and surrounding mountains.
7. Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城)
Ticket Price: 40 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 150 km
Simatai is one of the most dramatic sections of the Great Wall, located on the border between Beijing and Hebei Province. It is particularly known for its steep and rugged terrain, making it more challenging for visitors. From Simatai, you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the ancient Gubei Water Town below, adding a cultural element to the experience.
8. Jinshanling Great Wall (金山岭长城)
Ticket Price: 65 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 150 km
Located opposite Simatai, Jinshanling is a well-preserved section that offers a slightly less touristy experience compared to Badaling or Mutianyu. The Wall here is famous for its distinctive two-layered towers, flying eaves, and ancient features. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore a historical section of the Wall that retains much of its original structure and charm.
9. Huangyaguan Great Wall (黄崖关长城)
Ticket Price: 70 RMB
Distance from Beijing: Approx. 130 km
Located in Tianjin’s Jixian County, Huangyaguan is a lesser-known section of the Great Wall, close to Beijing’s Pinggu District. It is famous for its unique octagonal towers and the restoration work carried out by military general Qi Jiguang during the Ming Dynasty. The surrounding area is also known for its hexagonal street designs. If you’re looking for a quieter experience away from the crowds, this is a great option.
How to Choose the Best Great Wall Section for You?
- For Popularity: Badaling is the go-to choice. It’s the most iconic and best-preserved section, with a variety of amenities and easy access.
- For Scenic Beauty: Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall offers breathtaking views of the Wall weaving through the waters of a lake, making it perfect for nature lovers.
- For Less Crowds: If you want to avoid large crowds, consider visiting Shuiguan, Xiangshui Lake, or Huangyaguan, which are quieter and offer a more serene experience.
- For a Unique Experience: Jinshanling and Simatai are perfect for those looking to explore a more rugged and historical section of the Wall, with scenic views of the countryside and nearby towns.