Which Section of the Great Wall Is Best To Visit?

The Great Wall of China is an awe-inspiring marvel and a must-see if you’re in Beijing. However, what many people don’t realize is that there are actually many different sections of the Great Wall you can visit.

With so many sections to choose from, picking the best one to visit can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—if you’re wondering which section to explore, read on!

Having lived in Beijing since 2018, I’ve visited the Great Wall around 20 times now (no joke!) and I’ve been to many of the different sections of the wall. Each have unique features and characteristics that will fit best the experience you want. I’ve summed up the pros and cons of each part based on my experiences to help you choose which section is best for you. No matter which section you visit though you won’t be disappointed!

Before choosing which section of the Great Wall to hike, consider:

Hiking difficulty
Restored or unrestored sections
Transportation options
Distance from Beijing
Time of year
Crowd levels
Travel companions (children, elderly, etc.)

Overview of Famous Sections of the Great Wall near Beijing:

*I have just listed the sections I have personally been to – I still need to check off some more!

How To Visit the Great Wall?

One of the biggest questions I’m asked by visitors is how to visit the Great Wall when in Beijing. While it is possible to reach some sections of the Great Wall using public transport (listed below), I usually prefer and recommend hiring a car for the day. It’s far more convenient, allowing for pick-up and drop-off at your preferred locations and letting you go at your own pace. The driver will wait for you while you hike and then take you back when you’re ready.

If you’re looking for a recommendation or want to connect with a local Beijing driver, I can put you in touch with a reliable service. I’ve booked several trips with this company, and they can arrange a car based on your destination and group size.

You can add my WeChat below and I will share the contact info with you. Alternatively, the driver service also uses WhatsApp (I currently do not). You can send me a DM on Instagram (@rachelmeetschina) or drop me an email (rachellynnweiss@gmail.com) and I can connect you.

Recommendations for Which Section to Visit

Overall, each section is unique and beautiful, and you’ll have a great time seeing the Great Wall! Which section you should visit ultimately depends on yourself and the experience you want. Based on my own personal experiences, here’s what I’d recommend. Read more about each section below.

Best Views and Hiking: Jinshanling, Wild Sections
Less Crowded: Huanghuacheng, Jinshanling, Wild Sections
First-Time Visitors to China: Mutianyu or Jinshanling
Most Interesting and Fun: Mutianyu
Cheapest Option and Easiest Transportation: Badaling
Challenging and Unique: Camping on the Wall
Best for a Unique Experience out of Beijing: Old Dragon’s Head (Laolongtou)
Best for History Enthusiasts: Juyongguan
Best Weekend Getaway: Simatai with Gubei Water Town

Badaling Section of the Great Wall

Badaling, located 43 miles (70 km) from Beijing, is the most famous section of the Great Wall for Chinese tourists and is easily accessible by a low-cost public train from Beijing. Here, you can find the famous Chairman Mao saying inscribed on one of the watchtowers: “不到长城非好汉” (Bú dào Chángchéng fēi hǎohàn), which translates to “He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true man.”

Pros:

Close to Beijing: Conveniently located, making it quick and easy to reach.
Affordable: Accessible by public train at a low cost.
Beautiful Hike: Features both north and south sides that are well-restored and offer scenic views.
Cable Cars: Available for those who prefer a less strenuous visit.

Cons:

Crowds: Its popularity means that it can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. If you want a quieter experience, consider visiting during off-peak times.

I do not recommend visiting Badaling, unless you are extremely short on time. While it’s close to Beijing, it is always very crowded when I visit!

Read more about visiting Badaling

Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is a popular choice due to its relatively close proximity to Beijing and its unique attractions, such as the toboggan slide down from the Wall. Located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Beijing, it typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach by car or public transport. Mutianyu offers a range of dining options, including Subway for familiar fare and local Chinese restaurants for a taste of traditional cuisine.

Pros:

Close to Beijing: Convenient for visitors who don’t want to travel far.
Toboggan Slide: One of the coolest attractions, allowing a fun and memorable descent from the Wall.
Easy Hike: The section is less strenuous, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter hike.
Family-Friendly: Ideal for families and groups looking for a hassle-free experience.
Cable Cars: Two different cable car options are available for ascending and descending the Wall.

Cons:

Crowds: Like Badaling, Mutianyu can be quite popular, leading to potential congestion and difficulty finding photo spots without people, especially during peak times.

I recommend Mutianyu to first time visitors, as it’s an enjoyable section of the wall and not far from Beijing.

Mutianyu is part of my 3 Day and 7 Day Beijing Itineraries, check them out!

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Jinshanling Section of the Great Wall

Jinshanling is known for its stunning mountain views and enjoyable hiking – it’s often called a photographer’s paradise. Located approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) from Beijing, it typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to reach by car. This section is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil and immersive experience, away from the bustling crowds that often gather at other parts of the Wall.

Pros:

Stunning Views: Jinshanling offers some of the most beautiful mountain scenery along the Great Wall, making it perfect for photography and nature lovers.
Enjoyable Hiking: The terrain provides a rewarding hike with well-preserved sections of the Wall, offering a blend of both restored and wild sections.
No Crowds: One of the least crowded sections, allowing you to enjoy the Wall in peace and take photos without the hassle of large groups.
Cable Car: For those who prefer not to hike the entire section, there is a cable car available.

Cons:

Limited Public Transportation: Getting to Jinshanling via public transport is challenging, so it’s recommended to book a private car, which can add to the cost and time.
Farther from Beijing: Its distance makes it more time-consuming to reach, requiring a longer journey compared to closer sections.

Jinshanling is my personal favorite—I’ve visited many times in different seasons, and the beauty and tranquility always impress me. I even went to the Yinyang Music Festival during the summer 2019 and had a blast.

Check out My Guide For Visiting Jinshanling

I’ve also went to Jinshanling after fresh snowfall in Beijing in December 2019. It was a beautiful winter wonderland! Read more about my winter adventure here: Snowy Sunrise at Jinshanling Great Wall

Simatai Section (Connected to Gubei Water Town)

Simatai is a unique and picturesque section of the Great Wall that is connected to the charming Gubei Water Town approximately 75 miles (120 km) from Beijing. One of Simatai’s standout features is the opportunity to explore the Wall at night, making it one of the only sections where you can enjoy an evening visit. This, along with the quaint water town setting, makes Simatai perfect for a weekend getaway.

Pros:

Cable Car: For those who prefer a less strenuous visit, there’s a cable car available to take you up to the Wall.
Night Access: Simatai is one of the only sections of the Wall that you can visit at night, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Gubei Water Town: The adjacent water town provides a lovely setting for accommodation, dining, and exploration, making it easy to turn your visit into a relaxing weekend escape.

Cons:

Farther from Beijing: Simatai is located farther from the city, requiring more travel time – around 2 – 2.5 hours by car.
Its connection to Gubei Water Town attracts many visitors who are staying for weekend getaways, so at certain times of the year it can be more crowded.

Read more about my trip to Simatai and Gubei Water Town

Huanghuacheng Lakeside Section of the Great Wall

Huanghuacheng, often referred to as the Lakeside Section of the Great Wall, is a scenic and serene destination just about 40 miles (65 kilometers) north of Beijing. This section is famous for the picturesque lake that runs alongside it, creating a breathtaking backdrop. Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, or enjoy water activities like boating and kayaking, Huanghuacheng offers a variety of experiences that make it a fantastic choice for families and anyone seeking a unique Great Wall section.

Pros:

Close to Beijing: Conveniently located, making it easy to reach from the city.
Beautiful Lake Views: Offers stunning views of the lake, adding a unique element to your Great Wall visit.
Variety of Activities: From boating and kayaking to hiking around scenic park areas, there’s something for everyone, making it perfect for families.
Camping: Some Beijing tour groups offer camping here, which can be a fun and memorable experience.

Cons:

More Developed: Though great for families and activities, the area is more developed, which can make it feel less natural and rugged compared to other sections.
Weekend Crowds: While generally less crowded, it can get busier on weekends.
Limited Wall to Hike: This section doesn’t have as much of the Wall to explore compared to other sections.

Hiking the Huanghuacheng Section of the Great Wall

Check out my video at the Huanghuacheng Section of the Great Wall:

Camping on a Wild Wall Section with Great Wall Fresh

Camping on the wild sections of the Great Wall offers a truly unique and adventurous way to experience this historic landmark. Unlike the restored and popular sections, the wild areas remain untouched and unrepaired, allowing you to see the Wall in its most natural state. During the National Holiday in 2019, I camped with Great Wall Fresh at one of these wild sections, and it was an unforgettable experience.

Pros:

Untouched Beauty: Wild sections are in their natural, unrepaired state, offering an authentic view of the Wall as it was centuries ago.
No Crowds: These areas are far less visited, allowing you to enjoy the solitude and immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.
In-Depth Experience: Camping here lets you experience the sunrise and sunset on the Wall, providing a deeper connection to this historic site.
Adventure: For those seeking a more challenging and immersive experience, wild sections offer a true adventure.

Cons:

Not for Everyone: This option is best suited for those who are comfortable with outdoor camping and rugged hikes, and who are looking for a truly unique way to experience the Wall.
Challenging Hiking: The hike is tough, with steep and uneven terrain, making it the most difficult of all the sections I’ve explored. If you are looking for a challenging hike, Custom Keychains can be handy tools. You can design a keychain with various elements, and even give it a commemorative touch.
Weather Exposure: You’re fully exposed to the elements, so you need to be well-prepared for anything, from rain to cold. Even with preparation, unexpected weather can pose a challenge.

Read more about My Experience Camping on the Great Wall of China

Juyongguan (Juyong Pass)

Juyongguan, also known as Juyong Pass, is one of the most historically significant and strategically important sections of the Great Wall. Located about 37 miles (60 kilometers) from Beijing, Juyongguan is nestled in a valley surrounded by lush mountains, making it both accessible and scenic. This section served as a critical military stronghold, protecting Beijing from invaders during ancient times, and it remains one of the best-preserved sections of the Wall.

Pros:

Close to Beijing: Juyongguan is one of the closest sections to Beijing, making it a convenient option for a day trip.
Historical Significance: This pass played a vital role in China’s military history, offering visitors a deep sense of the Wall’s strategic importance.
Scenic Beauty: The pass is surrounded by beautiful mountains and greenery, providing picturesque views, especially in the spring and autumn.
Restored and Well-Maintained: The section is well-preserved, with restored parts that are easy to walk on, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
Beautiful cherry and peach blossoms in the springtime

Cons:

Crowds: Due to its proximity to Beijing and historical significance, Juyongguan can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.
Limited Wall to Explore: The length of the Wall accessible at Juyongguan is shorter compared to other sections like Mutianyu or Jinshanling, offering a more condensed experience.

Read more about Juyongguan Great Wall: Visit the Juyong Pass in Beijing

Laolongtou (Great Wall By The Sea)

Did you know there’s a section of the Great Wall that meets the ocean? Known as the Old Dragon’s Head (Laolongtou 老龙头), this is where the Great Wall begins its journey from the sea. Located in Hebei Province, about 2.5 hours from Beijing by train, Laolongtou offers a unique and picturesque experience, making it a perfect day trip for those looking to explore a different side of the Wall.

Pros:

Unique Experience: Seeing the Great Wall extend into the sea is a truly special sight, offering a different perspective than the more mountainous sections.
Historical Significance: As the starting point of the Great Wall, this location carries historical weight, symbolizing the Wall’s grand scale and importance.
Beachside Amenities: There are restaurants and shops along the beach, allowing you to relax and enjoy the seaside after exploring the Wall.

Cons:

Distance from Beijing: Laolongtou is not in Beijing, requiring a 2-2.5 hour train ride to Shanhaiguan 山海关, which makes it a longer day trip.
Time-Consuming: While it’s possible to visit in a day, the journey there and back can make for a long day, which might be tiring for some travelers.

This section is ideal for those looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience of the Great Wall, combining history with the beauty of the seaside.

Read more: Laolongtou (Old Dragon’s Head): Where the Great Wall Meets the Sea

Which season is the best to visit the Great Wall?

Ultimately the Great Wall is an amazing sight no matter when you visit China, but the scenery around the wall looks very different depending on the season. If you’re not picky about the weather and just want a beautiful hike, go for it! But if you’re trying to plan activities or photograph certain scenes, consider the time of year that you visit.

Winter

It doesn’t snow often in Beijing, but my first trip to the Wall it snowed at Jinshanling in January 2016, also again when I went to Jinshanling in December 2019. I also caught a big snowfall in February 2024 at Badaling. It was very lovely to see, but made it a tad slippier to hike. Wear good shoes with tread so you don’t slip and pack a warm coat because it’ll be cold out in the mountains. The toboggan at Mutianyu might be closed in inclement weather, as will some cable cars, so keep that in mind as well.

Spring

In March 2019 I visited Jinshanling again, and unfortunately the mountains were still brown and hadn’t turned green again. The weather was lovely for hiking though – I had a light jacket and pants and definitely warmed up once we started hiking.

A month later I went to Mutianyu in mid-April, and it was a bit greener then.

Summer

Summer is a vibrant green! The scenery is stunning. It will be hot though so bring water and sunscreen.

Early Autumn (September)

I visited Badaling in September 2018 and Huanghuacheng in September 2019 and those were two of my favorite trips simply because of how green the mountains were and how beautiful the weather was for hiking. Not too hot and not rainy! The best time in my opinion.

Fall (November)

I went to Badaling again in November 2019 and the colors were lovely!

Visit the Great Wall of China

I love living in Beijing! It’s so fun to be close to the mountains and many sections of the Great Wall. There are so many beautiful sights at all the sections, so no matter where you choose to go it will be an unforgettable experience.

There are still many sections of the Great Wall I haven’t visited, but plan to in the future! Have you been to the Great Wall? Which section is your favorite?

If you’re visiting Beijing, check out these other great things to do:

Rachel Meets China