The Great Wall of China is not just a symbol of Chinese history—it’s a bucket-list destination for travelers from around the world. But with so many different sections near Beijing, how do you choose the right one?
Whether you’re after stunning views, a quiet hike, or family-friendly access, this guide breaks down the top 5 sections—Badaling, Mutianyu, Juyongguan, Jinshanling, and Simatai—to help you decide which suits you best.
1. Badaling Great Wall – Most Popular and Easiest to Access
- Location: Yanqing District, about 60 km northwest of Beijing
- Length: 3,741 meters
- Features: Most popular and well-restored
- Intensity: Moderate to steep, with handrails and cable car
- Best for: First-time visitors, families, senior travelers
Pros:
- Easiest to access via train or highway
- Complete tourist facilities (restaurants, bathrooms, cable cars)
- Classic postcard-like views
- Historically significant: first section opened to the public
Cons:
- Can be extremely crowded, especially on weekends and holidays
- Feels more commercialized than other parts
2. Mutianyu Great Wall – Beautiful Views, Fewer Crowds
- Location: Huairou District, 73 km from downtown Beijing
- Length: 5,400 meters (longer than Badaling)
- Features: Scenic, less crowded, lush greenery
- Intensity: Moderate, with cable car and toboggan options
- Best for: Families with kids, couples, nature lovers
Pros:
- One of the most scenic sections with beautiful forest views
- Fewer tourists compared to Badaling
- Fun toboggan ride down
- Family-friendly
Cons:
- Takes slightly longer to reach than Badaling
- Fewer historical buildings nearby
3. Juyongguan Great Wall – Historic Gateway with Circular Route
- Location: Changping District, 60 km from Beijing
- Length: Approximately 4.6 km (circular path)
- Features: Fortress pass, convenient stopover
- Intensity: Short, steep climb in some areas
- Best for: Short visits or day-trippers
Pros:
- Easy to pair with a Badaling or Ming Tombs visit
- Impressive gate and ancient fort architecture
- Quick visit possible if you’re short on time
Cons:
- Not ideal for long hikes
- Less panoramic than other sections
4. Jinshanling Great Wall – Best for Hikers and Photographers
- Location: Hebei Province, 130 km from Beijing, 90 km from Chengde
- Length: ~10 km
- Features: Most complete and densely fortified section of Ming Great Wall
- Intensity: Moderate to challenging
- Best for: Hikers, photographers, history lovers
Pros:
- Fewer tourists and more authentic experience
- Great for hiking between Jinshanling and Simatai
- Incredible variety of towers and wall types
Cons:
- Farther from Beijing (about 2.5–3 hours one-way)
- Limited facilities
5. Simatai Great Wall – Rugged Beauty with Limited Access
- Location: Border of Beijing’s Miyun District and Hebei Province (120 km from Beijing)
- Length: 5.4 km
- Features: Known as the steepest and most dramatic section
- Intensity: High – steep climbs and rugged terrain
- Best for: Adventure seekers and experienced hikers
Pros:
- Stunning views with a wild, untamed feel
- Most sections remain unrestored, offering a raw experience
- Connects with Jinshanling for long-distance hiking
Cons:
- Physically demanding
- Remote and less accessible without a tour or private car
📌 Summary Comparison Table
| Great Wall Section | Distance from Beijing | Length | Difficulty | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badaling | 60 km | 3.7 km | Moderate | Most visited, well-restored | First-timers, families |
| Mutianyu | 73 km | 5.4 km | Moderate | Scenic views, fewer crowds | Families, nature lovers |
| Juyongguan | 60 km | 4.6 km | Easy–Moderate | Fortress-style gate | Time-limited visitors |
| Jinshanling | 130 km | 10 km | Moderate–Hard | Hiker’s paradise | Adventurers, photographers |
| Simatai | 120 km | 5.4 km | Challenging | Wild, steep, rugged | Experienced hikers |
✨ Final Tips
- Choose Badaling if you want convenience and comfort.
- Pick Mutianyu for a beautiful, family-friendly experience.
- Try Jinshanling or Simatai if you’re craving a true hiking adventure with fewer crowds.
- Go to Juyongguan if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the Wall’s grandeur.
Looking for a guided experience or private transfer? Check out our 5-Day Classic Beijing Tour and 14-Day All the Best China Tour for flexible and comfortable packages.
