Exploring One of the World’s Wonders: The Great Wall of China
Everything you need to know before your visit!
A journey to China is incomplete without experiencing one of the world’s wonders: The Great Wall of China. As Travelwonder Team, we believe that a visit to this iconic wonder is an essential part of any travel itinerary through China. Spanning over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall stands as a symbol of China’s rich history and cultural heritage. Our team member, Loïs, had the incredible opportunity to visit the Great Wall on the First Christmas day in 2017 and is eager to share her unforgettable experiences with you. In this blogpost, we’ll share everything you need to know to make your visit to the Great Wall an unforgettable experience. Let’s embark on this adventure together!
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History and Significance
The Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was originally constructed during various dynasties, with the most famous sections built during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644). The wall served as a defense against invading forces and protected ancient Chinese civilization along its northern borders. Each stone and brick on the Great Wall holds centuries of stories, making it a living tribute to China’s inspiring history.
The cultural significance and the architectural brilliance of the Great Wall have earned it a well-deserved place as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Therefore it could not miss on the Travelwonder Team’s bucket-list.
Best Sections to Visit
There are variety of sections of the Great Wall that you can visit, and each offers a unique experience. A few of these sections include:
- Badaling (八達嶺)
- Easily accessible from Beijing, Badaling is one of the most well-preserved and popular sections. While it may be crowded, the majestic scenery makes it a must-visit for first-time travelers. The Badaling section is ideal for families and those seeking a short but captivating experience. To avoid a steep climb, you have the option to take a round-trip cable car ride to the highest point of the wall, which costs around 100 CNY (approx. 15 USD). The entrance fee to this section is 60 CNY (approx. 9 USD). Prepare for crowds, especially during peak seasons and the golden week.
- Mutianyu (慕田峪)
- For adventurers at heart, the Mutianyu section is a favorite pick. According to Loïs, this section is a hidden gem where tranquility embraces you, and the beauty of nature surrounds you. While walking along the wall, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking mountain peaks that stretch as far as the eye can see. Moreover, Mutianyu offers the option of taking an exciting toboggan ride down after completing your hike, adding a touch of fun to your Great Wall adventure (the ride costs 140 CNY (approx. 20 USD)). Here you also have the option of a cable car ride, which also costs 140 CNY for a round-trip. The entrance fee to this section is 100 CNY (approx. 15 USD). Keep in mind that during peak seasons, this section can be crowded as well.
- Jinshanling (金山岭)
- If you are in search of an authentic and less-touristy experience, the Jinshanling section is highly recommended. This partially restored section offers a mix of ruggedness and beauty. Although there is no cable car option, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and the chance to immerse yourself in the serenity of the Wall’s history. It also is the perfect section for photography enthusiasts, as it offers countless opportunities for capturing amazing shots. The entrance fee to this section is 65 CNY (approx. 10 USD). For a more adventurous experience, consider a guided hike from Jinshanling to Simatai, but be prepared for a challenging trek (please be aware that there is a chance that this hike is not possible due to restoration work).
- Simatai (司马台)
- The Simatai section is known for its steep slopes and breathtaking landscapes. This less popular section offers a more secluded and intimate experience with the Great Wall where you can conquer some challenging terrain. This section is recently restored and offers a variety of unique activities. You can combine your visit to this section with a visit to Gubei Water Town, an old village surrounding a lake, where you can experience the beauty of the Wall from water. On top of that, this is the only section where you can book a night walk tour on the Great Wall. At last, this section also offers a cable car ride. The entrance fee for Simatai is 40 CNY (approx. 6 USD), the cable car round-trip is 160 CNY (approx. 23 USD), and a combo ticket for both the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town costs 170 CNY (approx. 25 USD).
Remember, each section offers its own unique charm, so consider your preferences and interests when choosing which part to explore. There also are other sections to visit, such as Juyongguan (居庸关) and Gubeikou (古北口), but from the heart of Travelwonder Team, we highly recommend above mentioned sections.
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Accessibility and Transportation
Each section of the Great Wall requires different transportation options. Here’s a guide to help you reach each section:
- Badaling: To visit Badaling, you can take the Line 877 Bus, which departs from Deshengmen (德胜门) in Beijing. This direct tourist bus provides a convenient and budget-friendly option. Alternatively, you can book a tour that includes a tourist bus or hire a private car. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Mutianyu: This section is a bit harder to reach by public bus due to transfers, so booking a tour with a direct tourist bus, finding travel companions to share a minivan, or hiring a private car are easier options in order to reach this section. The travel time to Mutianyu is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Beijing.
- Jinshanling: To get to this section, it also is best to book a tour with a direct tourist bus, to hire a shared minivan, or arrange a private car. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours from Beijing.
- Simatai: You can reach Simatai by booking a tour with a direct tourist bus, hiring a shared minivan, or arranging for a private car. The travel time to Simatai is about 2.5 to 3 hours from Beijing. Due to restoration, it may be necessary to make a reservation for this section on beforehand to be allowed to visit.
Plan your transportation according to your preferences and time constraints, and get ready to embark on an adventurous journey through China’s ancient marvel.
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Some Practical Info:
Timing is everything. The best times to explore this wonderful creature are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are complemented with blooming flowers or vibrant leafs. Summers (June to August) can be quite hot and crowded, while winters (December to February) can be chilly, with some sections of the wall even covered in snow. However, we visited the Mutianyu Section in December and still got accompanied by a clear blue sky and several rays of sun!
Opening hours may vary based on the section you choose to visit, but generally, most sections open at around 7:00 AM and close around 5:00 PM. It’s advisable to arrive early to avoid the crowds and to make the most of your visit. Keep in mind that weather conditions can change rapidly, so be sure to dress in layers and bring comfortable walking shoes. Lastly, don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views that await you!
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Happy Travels!
As you set out on your journey to explore the magnificent Great Wall of China, remember that there a variety of sections to visit, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or an adventurer seeking breathtaking views, the Great Wall promises it all. As you walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations and immerse yourself with the greatness of this architectural wonder, we hope that your visit will be nothing short of extraordinary. We hope that the information in this post will help you planning your visit. May it be an exploration filled with cherished and wonderful memories. Happy travels! 旅行愉快!
