Badaling Great Wall

Introducing Badaling Great Wall

The Badaling Great Wall has a long history, dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, when the State of Yan built the Great Wall in the Jundu Mountain area to defend against invasions by nomadic tribes from the north.

Most of the existing Badaling Great Wall dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The Ming dynasty established nine strategic military garrisons along the Great Wall, known as the "Nine Frontiers," and Badaling fell under the jurisdiction of Jizhen. To strengthen defenses, the Ming dynasty undertook extensive construction and reinforcement of the Badaling Great Wall, transforming it into a sturdy military defense line.

Climate and best time to travel

Best season to visit:

The Great Wall is playable in all seasons

In spring, you can enjoy the blooming peach, apricot and pear blossoms at the Great Wall, and your mood will be as peaceful as water when you are at the Great Wall.

In summer, the Great Wall is covered with lush vegetation, verdant trees and green grass, and it seems to be hidden in a sea of ​​green. It is also a great place to escape the summer heat.

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons to visit the Great Wall. The changing colors of the leaves on the mountains, red, yellow, and orange, complement the Great Wall, creating a vibrant scene that resembles a giant golden dragon winding through the mountains. The cool, refreshing autumn weather makes it a perfect time for outdoor activities and a chance to enjoy the scenery.

In winter, the Great Wall is covered with snow, like a giant silver dragon coiled in the mountains. It looks even more ancient and tranquil after the snow.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended tours:

You can take the cable car up and down the Badaling Great Wall, or you can climb it yourself.

Recommended play time: half day - full day

Tickets

Adult Ticket:

Peak season (April 1st - October 31st): 40 yuan/person;

Off-season (November 1st - March 31st of the following year): 35 yuan/person.

Student ticket (with valid student ID): 20 yuan/person in peak season; 17.5 yuan/person in off-season.

Attraction opening hours

Peak season (April 1st - October 31st)

Admission time: 6:30

Ticket sales and admission stop time: 16:30

Closing time: Park cleaning starts after 17:00.

Off-season (November 1st - March 31st of the following year)

Admission time: 7:30

Ticket sales and admission stop time: 16:00

Closing time: Park cleaning starts around 16:30.

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Most Popular FAQs for Badaling Great Wall

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Badaling Great Wall is the most visited and well-preserved section of the Great Wall of China. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it served as a key military defense point and symbolizes China's historical strength and architectural ingenuity.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in Yanqing District, Beijing, about 70 km northwest of central Beijing.
• Take Line S2 from Beijing North Railway Station to Badaling Station.
• Alternatively, take bus 877 from Deshengmen Bus Terminal.
• Taxis or private cars are convenient for direct access to the Wall entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM (varies seasonally).
• Best visiting months: April to October for favorable weather.
• Early morning or weekdays are ideal to avoid crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Entrance fee: Around 40 CNY (high season) and 35 CNY (low season).
• Tickets can be purchased online via official sites or onsite at the ticket office.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended during weekends, national holidays, and peak tourist seasons, ideally 1–3 days prior.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours depending on the chosen section and pace; longer if hiking extensively or taking scenic photos.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main entrance area with the visitor center and cable car access.
• Restored watchtowers along the Wall.
• Panoramic viewpoints for photography.
• Historical plaques explaining the Wall's construction and significance.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

• Guided tours are available in Chinese and English.
• Audio guides can be rented onsite, with options in English, Chinese, and some other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Highest watchtowers for sweeping views of surrounding mountains.
• Curved sections with multiple watchtowers for dramatic photos.
• Sections with sunrise or sunset facing east or west slopes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the main entrance, take the cable car to the highest accessible section, hike east or west along the Wall to explore watchtowers, and return via shuttle or by walking down.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not allowed; occasional cultural exhibitions or performances may be held at the visitor center.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded.
• National holidays and weekends are peak times with heavy crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Restrooms at entrances and select sections along the Wall.
• Snack stalls and cafes near the entrance.
• Souvenir shops at the ticket office and visitor center.
• Rest benches and picnic spots along easier trail sections.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessible for children and elderly with moderate fitness; steep sections limit wheelchair access. Cable cars assist with reaching higher points.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most facilities accept cards and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay), but carrying some cash is useful for small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants and cafes near the entrance offer local Beijing cuisine, snacks, and beverages.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; halal options are limited and require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels and guesthouses are available in Yanqing District, ranging from budget stays to mid-range accommodations for overnight trips.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Juyongguan Great Wall
• Badaling Wildlife World
• Yanqing National Wetland Park

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell postcards, miniature Great Wall models, local crafts, and cultural memorabilia.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Return via S2 train to Beijing North Railway Station.
• Taxi or ride-hailing services to nearby attractions or hotels.
• Local buses to Yanqing town or further Beijing districts.