Great Wall Tours – Badaling and Mutianyu



The Great Wall is one of China’s top tourist attractions. Every year millions of people flock to different sites to see the wall in all its restored glory. What are the sites? Which ones are best? What can visitors expect?

The major tourist areas of the Great Wall of China are Badaling, Mutianyu, Juyongguan, Simatai, Jinshanling, and Huanghua.

Each has it own benefits and drawbacks. Check the map and read on.

Great WallBadaling

Badaling is the most popular Great Wall tourist spot. Located 70 km from Beijing, it offers stunning views (and potential photographers) of the wall and the surrounding landscape. It is a popular spot. If visited on a weekend or holiday expect hordes of tourists and vendors.

Badaling was first built during the Ming dynasty and was restored in the 1950s and again in the 1980s. A cable car system was installed for those who don’t want to walk to the top. Several watch towers have also been restored. The wall, 6 meters wide, displays the restored work of Ming Great Wall laborers.

Badaling Tours

Several companies offer tours to Badaling. Ask at your hostel or hotel. Public buses from Beijing to Badaling are also available

Great Wall of China (Dec 2004)Mutianyu

Mutianyu is also a popular Great Wall of China tour spot, but plays second fiddle to Badaling. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this section is 2250 meters long, and feature watch towers. Ninety kilometers from Beijing, the surrounding country-side is stunning if picturesque photographs are what you are after.  A cable car is also available to the climbing impaired.

Mutianyu Tours

Several companies offer tours to Mutianyu and the surrounding area. Public buses are also available for Beijing to nearby Huairou.


Photo Credits: Creative Commons License photo credit: iansand Steve Webel