The Great Wall of China: Choosing the Ideal Section to Visit


**Not all sections of the wall are created equal!** Each offers a unique experience—from popular tourist routes to wild, untouched sections. We'll tell you which section to choose based on your preferences.

## 🎯 **BADALIN** — for beginners
**70 km from Beijing**
The most popular and well-maintained section. Perfect for a first acquaintance with the wall. Cable car, cafes, and souvenir shops—all the infrastructure is in place. Cons: crowds of tourists, especially on weekends.

## 🥾 **MUTIANYU** — the golden mean
**90 km from Beijing**
A less crowded, but well-restored section. Stunning views, convenient trails, and a cable car. The perfect balance between comfort and authenticity. Movie scenes were filmed here!

## 🗻 **SIMATAI** — for romantics
**130 km from Beijing**
The only section illuminated at night! Steep climbs, breathtaking views, and the chance to see the wall at sunset. Nearby is the water town of Gubei. For physically fit hikers.

## 💪 **JINSHANLIN** — for extreme sports enthusiasts
**125 km from Beijing**
The safest section for hiking among the "wild" sections of the wall. Amazing photo opportunities, minimal crowds, but requires good physical fitness. An authentic atmosphere guaranteed!

## ⚠️ **IMPORTANT TIPS:**

**Best Time:** Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) — comfortable weather and beautiful views

**What to Bring:** Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and a hat

**Avoid holidays** — popular areas are packed during Chinese national holidays

**Early morning or late evening** — fewer crowds, better light for photos

**Guided or Self-Guided?** You can hike Badaling on your own; for the wilder areas, it's better to take a tour.

## 🚗 **HOW TO GET THERE:**
- **Badaling:** High-speed train from Huangtudian Station
- **Mutianyu:** Bus 867 from Dongzhimen Station
- **Simatai/Jinshanling:** Tourist buses or taxis

**Remember:** The Great Wall of China is not It's not just a landmark, it's a journey through millennia of history. Choose a site to your liking and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

*#GreatWall #China #Travel #Badaling #Mutianyu #Simatai #BeijingTourism*

#guide

Post by Sanyu_ch | Sep 22, 2025

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