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The Motianling Great Wall is a great place for hiking and photography. Visitors can walk along the wall and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is also rich in historical significance, with various restored sections of the wall showcasing the ancient architectural skills of the time. It's ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
Motianling at Ninglukou is the highest peak of Wulu Mountain. The winding and undulating Ming Great Wall is built on this mountain, about 10 kilometers long. It is commonly known as Little Badaling locally. It has a sense of ancient and majestic frontier and the desolateness of the earth.
With its towering battlements and steep beacon towers, Xiao Badaling is the most well-preserved and magnificent section of the Great Wall west of Juyongguan. The brick-clad Arrow Tower on the east bank of the river remains intact, with a stone plaque inscribed with "Zhenning" on its arch. Below the tower, the Ninglukou Pass was built, forming a complete defense system. During historical times of peace at the border, a horse market was established here, allowing for trade between the border and outsiders, hence the name "Horse Market Tower."
April-November
About half a day
free
All day
The Motianling Great Wall is an important section of the Great Wall of China, located in the Shanxi province. It was built during the Ming dynasty to defend against northern invaders. The wall at Motianling is known for its steep and rugged terrain, which makes it a unique experience compared to other more accessible sections of the Great Wall. It has become a popular tourist attraction for its historical value and breathtaking views.
Motianling Great Wall is located in the northern part of Datong city, Shanxi province, China. It can be reached by taxi from Datong city center, which takes about 1.5 hours. There is no direct metro service to the site, so taxis or private cars are the best options. Public buses may also be available, but they are less frequent.
The Motianling Great Wall is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the landscape is especially picturesque. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
The entrance fee is around 60-80 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through online travel platforms, but advance booking is not mandatory.
It is not required to book tickets in advance, though it is recommended to check availability during peak tourist seasons, such as holidays, to avoid long waiting times.
To fully explore the Motianling Great Wall and take in the views, a visit typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to hike more of the wall or take additional photos, it could take longer.
The must-see highlights include the steep and well-preserved sections of the wall, the breathtaking panoramic views from the watchtowers, and the various historical structures such as the military gates and observation posts.
Guided tours are available at the site, with Mandarin-speaking guides. English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance, but it's advisable to confirm this when booking.
The best viewpoints are from the watchtowers along the wall, particularly those situated on higher ground, which offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The wall itself, winding through the rugged terrain, is a prime photography spot.
The recommended route is to start at the entrance and walk along the main sections of the wall. Take time to stop at the watchtowers for photos and enjoy the views. For a more comprehensive experience, follow the hiking trails that connect various parts of the wall.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Motianling Great Wall. The site is primarily a daytime attraction, offering the best experience during daylight hours.
The Motianling Great Wall can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit is during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
The site has basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling snacks and water. It is advisable to bring your own water and snacks if you plan on hiking longer distances along the wall.
The Motianling Great Wall is not particularly accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to its steep terrain and uneven surfaces. Children may also find the hike challenging, especially if walking on the more rugged sections of the wall.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the site. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash as a backup.
There are no major restaurants inside the site, but there are local eateries in the nearby towns where visitors can sample Shanxi cuisine, including noodles and dumplings.
Vegetarian options are available at nearby eateries, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It's advisable to check in advance if you have dietary restrictions.
There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels in Datong city, which is about an hour's drive from the site. For more comfort, you can stay in the city center of Datong, where a range of accommodations are available.
Other nearby attractions include the Yungang Grottoes and the Hanging Temple, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These can easily be combined with a visit to the Motianling Great Wall in a day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance where visitors can purchase items such as postcards, local handicrafts, and miniatures of the Great Wall.
After visiting, taxis or buses can be used to continue the trip to nearby attractions, such as the Yungang Grottoes or the city center of Datong. Private transport or rental cars are the most convenient for continued travel.
