Best Travel Guide for Badaling & Mutianyu Great Wall

Hey, fellow travel enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to introduce you to the incredible Badaling and Mutianyu Great Wall tourist areas.

Mutianyu Great Wall is located in the Bohai Town of Huairou District, about 70 kilometers from downtown Beijing. It’s one of the best-preserved and longest sections of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, stretching 5,400 meters. The natural scenery here is stunning, with over 96% of the area covered in vegetation, boasting over 620 different plant species. Depending on the season, the views are ever-changing: flowers bloom in spring, lush greenery fills the summer, vibrant red leaves decorate the autumn, and a blanket of snow covers the winter. It’s like walking through a four-season painting.

From a historical and cultural perspective, Mutianyu Great Wall began construction in the second year of the Yongle reign during the Ming Dynasty. In ancient times, it was a crucial military defense project, with landmark spots like the Zhengguan Tower, Dajiao Tower, Niujiao Corner, and Yingfeidaoyang. These unique structures not only showcase the craftsmanship of ancient builders but also bear witness to the passage of history. Mutianyu was once a vital line of defense against foreign invasions during the Ming Dynasty, with countless soldiers fighting here to protect the nation.

Badaling Great Wall is another major section of the Great Wall, famous worldwide. The walls are towering and sturdy, and the views are awe-inspiring, offering a full experience of the Great Wall’s grandeur.

The history of Badaling dates back to the 18th year of the Hongzhi reign during the Ming Dynasty, around 1505. Badaling was also a strategic military point throughout history, located at the northern entrance of Juyongguan Pass, a crucial battlefield for armies. Famous battles were fought here, and it witnessed the valor of many heroes.

As for ticket prices, Mutianyu charges 45 RMB per person, with discounts available for seniors, teachers, military personnel, children, and people with disabilities. For example, seniors 60 and older get half-price tickets with ID, students get half-price with a student card, disabled visitors can enter for free with a disability card, and military personnel can also visit for free with valid ID. It’s open daily from 7:30 AM for ticket sales and park entry.

At Badaling, the ticket price is 40 RMB per person during peak season and 35 RMB during the off-season, with similar discounts for special groups. Peak season hours are from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM, while the off-season runs from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

There are many reasons to visit these sites. Mutianyu is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it has received numerous awards, including being a 5A National Tourist Attraction. Visitors often rave about the beautiful scenery and rich historical culture. Badaling, as one of Beijing’s iconic landmarks, has been drawing countless tourists over the years, making it a must-see when visiting Beijing.

If you have enough time, I recommend a two-day itinerary. On day one, visit Badaling, starting early to explore major sections like the South and North Four Towers. After a local meal, continue exploring the Great Wall’s other parts and head back to your accommodation. On day two, head to Mutianyu, avoiding the crowds by going early, and take a leisurely walk along the wall while enjoying the surrounding beauty. It’s a perfect, not-too-tiring way to experience the unique charm of both Great Wall sections.

For transportation, you can take the S2 train to Badaling Great Wall Station, then walk or take a shuttle bus to the site. Alternatively, public buses like the 877 route or driving are also options. For Mutianyu, you can drive along the Jingcheng Expressway, get off at the Huairou exit, and follow the navigation. If you prefer not to drive, you can take the subway to Dongzhimen and transfer to the 916 express bus to Huairou North Street, then switch to a bus to Mutianyu. Another convenient option is the direct shuttle bus service from the site.

As for accommodation, for Badaling, there are several hotels and guesthouses in the nearby Yanqing District or close to the wall, like the Great Wall Lodge at the foot of the Great Wall, which has a unique architectural style. For Mutianyu, consider staying in Huairou District, where the Wanda Realm Beijing Huairou Hotel is a good choice with convenient transportation. There are also charming rural guesthouses near Bohai Town if you want to enjoy the tranquil countryside. It’s a good idea to compare prices on major travel platforms before booking to find the best value.

For your trip, remember to pack essentials like your ID, phone, charger, and camera to capture the journey. Don’t forget any medications you may need, such as cold medicine or stomach remedies. Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes are a must, along with lightweight, breathable clothing for warm seasons. In summer, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are necessary, while winter visitors should bring warm coats, scarves, and gloves.

Food-wise, at Badaling, the Badaling Restaurant serves delicious dishes like iron pot stewed fish and roasted lamb legs. Near Mutianyu, try local specialties like Huairou chestnuts and rainbow trout at Yujiaao Restaurant.

When it comes to shopping, both Badaling and Mutianyu have souvenir shops selling Great Wall-related memorabilia and handcrafted goods, perfect for gifts. Be sure to check the quality and price of items before purchasing.

Additionally, you can participate in cultural activities to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. It’s customary to greet people with “Hello” or “Have you eaten?” and be polite at the dining table. When using chopsticks, avoid pointing them at others.

Travel safety is important—be cautious with both your personal belongings and physical safety while on the wall. Don’t run or play on the Great Wall, and keep your valuables secure. It’s also recommended to purchase travel insurance and carry hand sanitizers and masks for personal protection.

The currency used in Beijing is RMB, and you can exchange money both within and outside the tourist sites. Prices inside the scenic areas may be slightly higher than in the city center. A typical meal can cost around 50-100 RMB per person. Accommodation varies in price, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand RMB. Communication-wise, most phones work fine, and Wi-Fi coverage is good in the scenic areas. ATMs and banks are easily accessible for withdrawals and transfers.

Depending on the season, remember to dress appropriately. In spring, long sleeves and pants are recommended; in summer, sun protection is key, and fall is perfect for a light shirt or thin sweater. In winter, ensure you wear a thick down jacket with warm accessories like hats, scarves, and gloves.

If traveling with elderly, children, or pregnant individuals, be sure to plan a reasonable itinerary based on their physical condition. Always keep environmental awareness in mind, avoid disturbing other tourists while taking photos, and respect the site’s rules.

For convenience, I recommend a few useful travel apps: “Baidu Maps” for navigation, “Youdao Translate” for language translation, and “Sanmao Travel” for in-depth explanations of attractions. If weather changes or unexpected situations arise, don’t worry—Badaling has nearby attractions like the Wild Animal Park and Ancient Cliff Dwellings, while Mutianyu is close to Yanqi Lake, which can serve as backup options.

That’s all for the detailed guide to the Badaling and Mutianyu Great Wall areas! Hope it helps, and I wish you a fantastic journey to the Great Wall!