Cities
Which section of the Great Wall should you visit? Mutianyu vs Badaling vs Jinshanling
Compare the Great Wall sections near Beijing by scenery, crowds, travel time, and price, and pick the right one for your trip.
There’s no single “Great Wall” entrance: around Beijing there are several separate sections, each with its own tickets and character. Here’s how to choose.
At a glance
| Section | From Beijing | Crowds | Wall | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mutianyu | 1.5–2 hours | Moderate | Restored, with forested hills | First-time visitors, families |
| Badaling | About 1 hour | Very busy | Fully restored | Easiest access by train |
| Jinshanling | 2–2.5 hours | Quiet | Partly restored | Hiking and photography |
| Simatai | About 2 hours | Moderate | Partly restored | Night visits, with Gubei Water Town |
| Jiankou | 2–3 hours | Very quiet | Wild and crumbling | Experienced hikers only |
Mutianyu: the best all-rounder
Mutianyu is the one we recommend for most first-time visitors: it’s restored and safe, the views over wooded hills are beautiful, and it’s busy but rarely packed. A cable car or chairlift takes you up, and a toboggan slide brings you down.
- Prices: admission about ¥40–45, shuttle bus to the wall ¥15 return, cable car ¥100 one way or ¥140 return.
- Booking: real-name with your passport. Bring the same passport to the gate.
- See the Mutianyu day in our Beijing itinerary for transport.
Badaling: easiest to reach, busiest
Badaling is the closest section and the easiest to reach by public transport (a direct train from Beijing). It’s also the most crowded, especially at weekends and holidays. Go early on a weekday if you choose it.
Jinshanling: for hikers and photographers
Jinshanling is further out, and much quieter. The wall winds along a ridge with a mix of restored and original stretches, with dramatic views. Admission is about ¥65, with an optional cable car. Plan a full day, ideally with a tour or private driver.
Simatai: the Great Wall at night
Simatai sits above Gubei Water Town, and it’s known for night visits, with the wall lit up. Night tickets need advance booking through Gubei Water Town and sell out at weekends. Stay overnight in the water town to make the most of it.
Jiankou: the wild wall
Jiankou is unrestored: steep, crumbling, and with no facilities. It’s spectacular in photos, but only for experienced hikers with a local guide. Don’t go alone.
Tips for any section
- Wear good shoes: the steps are steep and uneven.
- Bring water and sun protection. There’s little shade.
- Go on a weekday, and avoid Chinese public holidays (early May and the first week of October).
- Each section is separately managed: a ticket for one doesn’t get you into another.
The easiest way to visit is a day tour that includes transport and tickets. Pair it with our 4-day Beijing itinerary.
