Located about 70 kilometers northeast of Beijing, the Mutianyu Great Wall (慕田峪长城) is one of the most famous and scenic sections of the Great Wall of China. Known for its stunning views, less crowded atmosphere compared to Badaling, and well-preserved structure, Mutianyu offers a rewarding experience for visitors. Whether you’re traveling by public transport, taxi, or a direct shuttle, here’s a detailed guide to getting to Mutianyu, purchasing tickets, the best time to visit, accommodation options, food and different routes to explore this magnificent historical site.
How to Get to Mutianyu Great Wall: Transportation Options
Public Transportation
- From Dongzhimen (东直门): If you’re starting from Beijing’s Dongzhimen Transit Hub, you can take the 916 Express Bus directly to Huairou District. Upon arriving at the Huairou North Street Station (怀柔北大街站), transfer to a dedicated bus (such as H7, H23, H24, H35, or H36), which will take you straight to the entrance of Mutianyu Great Wall. The entire journey takes approximately 3 hours.
- From Beijing North Railway Station: For those traveling by train, you can take the S2 suburban railway line to the Yanqi Lake Station (雁栖湖站). During peak seasons, there are shuttle buses available that connect passengers directly to the Mutianyu Great Wall scenic area.
Direct Shuttle Services to Mutianyu
- Mu Bus (慕巴士): The Mu Bus is the official shuttle partner of Mutianyu Great Wall, offering a convenient one-stop service from central Beijing to the wall. Departing from locations like Hepingxi Bridge B Exit (地铁和平西桥B口) or Dong Si Shi Tiao (东四十条) Metro Station, the shuttle runs daily with set departure times, typically at 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. The trip takes about 1.5 hours and includes the bus ride and free shuttle service within the scenic area, along with a guide on board.
- Busda Direct Shuttle (巴士达直通车): Another option is the Busda Direct Shuttle, departing from the Hepingxi Bridge B Exit (和平西桥站B口) of Metro Line 5. This service runs four times a day: at 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 12:00 PM, with a travel time of around 1.5 hours. The benefit of this service is that it takes visitors directly to the entrance without the need for an additional shuttle ride within the area.
- Qianmen Tourist Service Center: Visitors can also opt for a shuttle from the Qianmen Tourist Service Center, where round-trip tickets are available at 80 RMB per adult. However, be prepared for long lines, especially during public holidays when the demand is high.
Taxi
- For those preferring a more direct route, taxis are a convenient option. A taxi ride from central Beijing to Mutianyu will cost between 180-200 RMB, depending on traffic conditions. Please note that during peak hours, the fare may increase due to traffic congestion. Once you arrive at the Mutianyu Great Wall, you will still need to take the shuttle bus to reach the Wall itself.
Mutianyu Great Wall Ticketing Information
The Mutianyu Great Wall has a multi-ticketing system that covers the entrance, shuttle services, and cable cars. Below are the key ticket details:
1. Shuttle Bus Ticket (Double Journey)
- Price: 15 RMB (children under 1.2 meters travel for free)
- The shuttle bus operates between the main entrance and the ticketing area. Visitors must take the shuttle bus to ascend and descend the Wall. The buses are 40-seater vehicles, departing every 5 minutes. Once you reach the ticketing point, you can buy the shuttle bus ticket and wait for the next available bus.
2. Entrance Ticket to Mutianyu Great Wall
- After a 10-minute ride on the shuttle bus, visitors arrive at the Shuttle Bus Parking Lot on the Wall’s upper section. From here, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the North Entrance.
- Adult Ticket Price: 40 RMB. This ticket grants you access to the wall and its various sections, including watchtowers and scenic viewpoints.
3. Cable Car or Chairlift Ticket
Mutianyu offers two main options for those who want to skip the strenuous climb and get a panoramic view of the Great Wall:
Bi-directional Closed Cable Car
- Starting Point: Mutianyu Entrance
- Ending Point: Watchtower 14
- Price: Single journey 100 RMB / Round-trip 140 RMB
- Advantages:
- The cable car is fully enclosed, offering a higher level of safety.
- It provides a stunning view of the Great Wall, as the cable car takes you high above the Wall, offering sweeping panoramas.
- The destination is closer to the highest point of the Mutianyu Wall (Watchtower 20), reducing the amount of physical exertion needed to reach the top.
- Disadvantages: The cable car is popular, so expect queues, especially during peak seasons.
Chairlift + Toboggan
- Starting Point: Mutianyu Entrance
- Ending Point: Watchtower 6
- Price: 100 RMB for chairlift ride, 140 RMB for chairlift + toboggan
- Advantages:
- The chairlift follows the natural curve of the mountain, giving visitors a more scenic journey up, with a chance to appreciate the beauty of Mutianyu.
- After reaching the top, you can descend using a toboggan, an exciting, gravity-powered ride that stretches for 1 kilometer, offering a fun and thrilling way to head down.
- Disadvantages:
- The chairlift is not enclosed, which means it offers less safety, especially during the ascent or descent.
- The toboggan can be risky for children or older visitors, as it requires a certain level of skill to handle safely.
- During peak times, you might have to wait in long lines to use the toboggan.
Four Different Routes to Explore Mutianyu Great Wall
Cable Car + Hiking Route
This route provides the perfect balance of comfort and exploration. Start your journey at the North Entrance, where you’ll take a cable car up to Watchtower 14. From here, begin your hike westward towards Watchtower 20, the highest point of the Mutianyu section. The trail is relatively flat and manageable, making it suitable for most visitors, including families and those not seeking too much physical exertion. After exploring Watchtower 20, retrace your steps back to Watchtower 14, where you’ll catch the cable car back down to the entrance. This combination of cable car and hiking allows you to enjoy both the breathtaking views from above and the experience of walking along one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
East Line Tourism Route
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure and want to try the toboggan slide, the East Line is an excellent option. Begin at the South Entrance, taking the chairlift up to Watchtower 6. From here, hike eastward towards Zhengguan Tower (正关台), a key feature of the Wall, and continue on to Watchtower 1, the most prominent watchtower in this section. Once you’re done exploring, return to Watchtower 6 and take the toboggan slide down to the base. While this route requires some walking, it is relatively easy and provides a great mix of scenic views and thrilling fun, especially with the toboggan ride down.
Middle Line Tourism Route
For a more moderate experience, the Middle Line Route is a fantastic choice. Start at the North Entrance, and take the cable car up to Watchtower 14. From here, hike east towards Watchtower 6, a shorter and slightly less strenuous hike than the western route. After reaching Watchtower 6, enjoy a fun and fast descent using the toboggan slide back down to the entrance. This route offers the opportunity to experience both the cable car and toboggan ride, making it a well-rounded option for visitors looking for a balanced journey with a mix of comfort and excitement.
Full Hiking Challenge Route
For the more adventurous, the full hiking route is the ultimate challenge. Starting at the entrance, head northeast to Watchtower 1, and continue your journey all the way up to Watchtower 20. If you wish to skip the Zhengguan Tower (正关台), you can take a shorter route by hiking from Watchtower 6 to Watchtower 14. This route is entirely on foot, offering the most in-depth experience of the Great Wall’s architecture and views but requires stamina and a love for hiking.
Things to Do and See at Mutianyu Great Wall
Western Section Highlights
1. 360-Degree Scenic Cable Car: The Mutianyu cable car is a popular way to start your adventure. It can carry up to 8 passengers at a time, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Great Wall, especially as the cable car nears the top. At this point, the Wall stretches beneath your feet, creating an incredible photo opportunity that shouldn’t be missed. This is one of the best moments to capture the grandeur of the Wall from above.
2. Watchtower 14: Upon reaching Watchtower 14, you’ll encounter two notable landmarks: the famous stone tablet bearing the phrase “不到长城非好汉 He who has not been to the Great Wall is not a true hero,” and the Mutianyu stone stele, both of which are steeped in history. This tower marks the entrance to a more tranquil part of the Wall, where you can explore and take in the surroundings.
3. Graffiti Wall at Watchtower 14: The bricks of the Great Wall at Mutianyu have withstood centuries of history, and some visitors have even left their mark through graffiti. The area near Watchtower 14 features a wall where you can leave your own artwork, a rare opportunity on such a historic site.
4. Watchtower 15 – Filming Location of “If You Are the One”: Watchtower 15 is a highlight for photography lovers. This tower was featured in the popular Chinese film If You Are the One and is one of the most picturesque spots on the Wall. Its beauty is evident throughout the year, offering unique photo opportunities with its stunning views and architectural features.
5. Watchtower 17: Here, you’ll see a striking monument on the western mountain slope: five large Chinese characters, “忠于毛主席 Loyal to Chairman Mao,” are etched into the stone. Each character has a diameter of about 12 meters, making it a monumental display visible from afar. This grandiose display of loyalty is a distinct feature that sets Mutianyu apart from other Great Wall sections.
6. Watchtower 18: On clear days, Watchtower 18 offers an iconic view of both the China Zun skyscraper in Beijing’s CBD and the Great Wall in the distance, separated by 50 kilometers. This rare sight of two historic landmarks – one ancient, one modern – is a must-see for visitors. Inside Watchtower 18, a stone tablet from the Ming Dynasty, placed in the southern wall, marks the western boundary of the Mutianyu area during historical times.
7. Steep Section between Watchtowers 19 and 20: This segment of the Wall, between Watchtowers 19 and 20, is one of the steepest parts of Mutianyu, known for the notorious Haohan Slope (Hero’s Slope). With an incline of up to 70 degrees, this is a challenging yet rewarding climb, providing a thrilling experience for those up for a physical challenge.
8. Watchtower 20 – The Highest Point: Located at the westernmost edge of the Mutianyu section, Watchtower 20 is the highest point on this stretch of the Great Wall, standing at an impressive elevation of 1,039 meters. Known as Hero’s Platform, it offers unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape and the Wall stretching across the horizon.
Eastern Section Highlights
1. Cable Car to Watchtower 6: The cable car in the eastern section of Mutianyu takes you directly to Watchtower 6, offering a comfortable ride and spectacular views of the Wall stretching out to the east. This is an ideal starting point for exploring the eastern part of the Wall, which has a different character compared to the western section.
2. Watchtower 4 – Zhengguan Tower: Watchtower 4, known as Zhengguan Tower, was the primary gateway to the Mutianyu area during the Ming Dynasty. Built in 1404 during the Yongle reign, this tower is one of the earliest defense structures of the Wall. Located in a low valley between two mountains, Zhengguan Tower is a unique structure made up of three hollow watchtowers stacked on top of each other. It stands 20 meters tall and is the only such structure on the Great Wall.
3. Watchtower 1 – Big Corner Tower: Watchtower 1, located at the easternmost part of Mutianyu, connects three sections of the Great Wall: the Gubeikou section to the east, Badaling to the west, and the Tuwei Bian (a side branch of the Wall). Known as the Big Corner Tower, this structure has become one of the most recognizable landmarks of the Great Wall and is a masterpiece of ancient military architecture.
4. Toboggan Ride at Watchtower 6: One of the most fun activities at Mutianyu is the toboggan slide at Watchtower 6. After taking the cable car up to this point, visitors can experience the thrilling ride down the mountain. The toboggan slide is safe and enjoyable, offering a fun and fast descent, making it a favorite experience for many visitors, especially families and children.
Best Times to Visit Mutianyu Great Wall: A Seasonal Guide
Spring at Mutianyu (April 1 – June 30)
As spring arrives in Beijing, the city comes to life with sunny skies and comfortable temperatures. The once-dull colors of winter are replaced by lush greenery, making the journey along the Great Wall feel like walking through a vibrant spring painting. This period is when the tourist season begins to pick up, especially during weekends and holidays. The spring season, known for its mild temperatures and beautiful blooms, attracts many visitors, resulting in busier crowds, especially on weekends. While queues may form at popular spots, they are usually short and manageable. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to plan your visit on weekdays.
On weekends, traffic on the Jingcheng Expressway, which leads to Mutianyu, can be heavy due to the influx of tourists heading to the countryside. However, during weekdays, traffic is generally smooth and travel time remains reasonable. Spring is one of the best times for outdoor activities like hiking, so don’t miss the chance to experience the Great Wall in full bloom!
Summer at Mutianyu (July 1 – August 31)
The summer months in Beijing are hot, making it essential to bring sun protection and cooling products for a comfortable experience. During this time, Beijing experiences more rainfall, and visitors should be prepared for possible weather disruptions, such as rain showers or flood warnings, which may lead to temporary closures of the scenic area. However, after a rainstorm, the landscape transforms into a mystical wonderland, with fog swirling around the mountains, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
While summer sees an influx of tourists, the real peak comes in late July and early August. Mondays can be particularly crowded, as many visitors, who usually go to the Forbidden City, choose to explore the Great Wall instead. To make the most of your visit, it’s best to head out early in the morning. Traffic is typically smooth during the weekdays, but weekends may see occasional congestion, adding about 30 minutes to your travel time.
Autumn at Mutianyu (September 1 – October 31)
Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Mutianyu. After the intense summer heat, Beijing’s weather becomes cooler and more pleasant, making it perfect for hiking along the Great Wall. The vibrant colors of autumn foliage add a magical touch to the landscape, with lush green forests transitioning to shades of golden and red, offering a stunning contrast against the blue sky.
During this period, the peak summer crowds have subsided, and although there are still some tourists, especially during weekends, the experience is much more relaxed and enjoyable. The roads leading to Mutianyu, including the Jingcheng Expressway, are generally clear, and the travel time is around 1.5 hours on weekdays. Even on weekends, the journey usually only takes about 10 minutes longer than usual.
Autumn also marks the time when the National Day Holiday (October 1 – 7) takes place. This period sees a temporary increase in visitors, so it’s best to avoid this time if possible.
Red Leaf Season at Mutianyu (November 1 – November 30)
The end of autumn ushers in the Red Leaf Season at Mutianyu, from late October through November. This is considered one of the most beautiful times to visit the Great Wall. The entire landscape is painted with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, as the autumn leaves reach their peak color. The sight of these colorful leaves contrasting with the ancient stone of the Wall creates a picturesque scene that photographers and nature lovers alike will find captivating.
During this period, crowds are typically lower, and the experience is more peaceful, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Wall without feeling rushed. Traffic remains smooth, and you can enjoy the stunning scenery at your own pace. This one-month window, from late October to November, is considered the most photogenic time to visit Mutianyu, and it’s perfect for those looking to capture the essence of the Great Wall in autumn.
Dining Options at Mutianyu Great Wall
Restaurants in Mutianyu Village (Base of the Wall):
- Burger King: International fast food with burgers and quick meals.
- Xian Lao Man (馅老满): Traditional home-style dishes, large dumplings, and stuffed flatbreads.
- Da Jia Le Kitchen (大家乐厨房): Serving knife-cut noodles and home-style Chinese dishes.
- Lao Li Shu (老栗树): A fusion of Chinese and Western cuisine, featuring a bar and coffee shop.
- Carles (卡乐滋): Offering rice bowls, fast food, burgers, and other casual meals.
- Tian Yuan Tea Restaurant (田缘茶餐厅): Specializes in sandwiches and serves as a cozy coffee spot.
- Vegetarian Square (素食坊): Healthy and creative vegetarian dishes.
- Old Beijing Zha Jiang Noodle Shop (老北京炸酱面馆): Traditional Chinese noodles with a simple, home-style menu.
Restaurants Near the Shuttle Station (Upper Wall):
- Yi Song Lou Restaurant (翼松楼): A Chinese restaurant managed by the Mutianyu Scenic Area, offering a pleasant dining environment.
- Subway: Western-style sandwiches, burgers, coffee, and fast food options.
Accommodation Near Mutianyu Great Wall
Staying in Mutianyu Village (慕田峪村)
Mutianyu Village is located at the foot of the Great Wall, just a short distance from the Mutianyu entrance. This village offers a beautiful ecological environment with over 95% vegetation cover, featuring many ancient trees and fruit trees. There are numerous guesthouses here, providing comfortable accommodations with stylish amenities such as stargazing rooms, terrace barbecues, open kitchens, small swimming pools, and hot spring baths. Some restaurants and foreign-owned businesses have also established a presence, earning it the reputation of an international cultural village.
Staying here, guests can leave their private cars at the guesthouse and walk to the ticket entrance in about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, some guesthouses offer shuttle services to the entrance. Note that private cars are not allowed to park at the Mutianyu ticket entrance.
Staying in Beigou Village (北沟村)
Beigou Village offers popular options like the Wa Factory Hotel (瓦厂酒店) and San Sa Homestay (三卅民宿). These accommodations feature red brick walls, glazed tiles, rustic wooden furniture, whirlpool hot springs, an art gallery, a café, and large windows with views of the Great Wall. The combination of ancient Eastern and Western cultures makes this village a unique place to stay. From here, a 30-minute hiking trail leads to Mutianyu Great Wall, or a short drive followed by a 15-minute walk will get you to a small ticket entrance that leads to the Great Wall.
Staying Inside Mutianyu Great Wall Scenic Area
Inside the Mutianyu Great Wall scenic area, the only accommodation available is the Mutianyu Great Wall Hotel (慕田峪长城酒店). Guests staying here do not need to purchase a separate entrance ticket, though the cable car is an additional cost. The hotel also provides parking, making it a convenient option for visitors who prefer to stay within the scenic area itself.
Staying in Huairou District
Huairou District, known for its beautiful natural landscapes such as Yanxi Lake, Hongluo Temple, Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall, and Shentangyu, offers a variety of resorts and accommodations. No matter where you stay in Huairou, you can drive to the Mutianyu parking lot and then take a shuttle bus (15 RMB round trip) to the Mutianyu ticket entrance. This helps avoid the traffic congestion of driving into the city center.