For so many, choosing which part of the Great Wall of China isn’t particularly a consideration. It’s the Great Wall – it is what it is. But they’re wrong. Choose wisely and you’ll be rewarded. Choose badly and your experience will be limited.
Going to China for so many is a once in a lifetime experience. For those who don’t fly there on business, jetting west to east and back monthly to sign deals and live on a constantly messed up body clock, China is a super long way away. So, why when making such big travel decisions, would you not apply the same consideration when selecting which part of the Great Wall of China to visit!
Which part of the Great Wall of China Did I Visit?
During my three-day trip to the wall, I visited the Juyongguan, Badaling and Mutianyu sections of the wall. Take a read of my Story here >
Which part of the Great Wall of China to Visit
Mutianyu
Considered one of the most magnificently restored sections of the way, and popular with Chinese tourists, within moments of arriving you’ll see the typical ‘Great Wall of China’ you’ve seen in picture books and on postcards. It’s busy but should still be on your list of which parts of the Great Wall of China to visit.
Time need: Half a day
Facilities: cable cars up/down and cart railway down
Accommodation options: Mutianyu Village
Jinshanling
One of the most popular sections of the wall for hiking, this area is half restored and half still wild, with beautiful views and landscapes around. Image credit: Neil Young
Time need: Full day
Facilities: Cable Car
Accommodation options: [eafl id=”1665″ name=”Hotels in Beijing” text=”Beijing”]
Jiankou
Steep, wild, and dangerous, Jiankou provides the most rugged of experiences and is the least restored – in fact not at all. When thinking about which part of the Great Wall of China to visit – this is outstanding its beauty, but not for novice walkers. Perfect though for photography! Image credit: _avpeiron_
Time need: Full day
Facilities: None
Accommodation options: [eafl id=”1665″ name=”Hotels in Beijing” text=”Beijing”]
Simatai
Combining many different styles and characters Simatai is the true pinnacle when it comes to showcasing the wall’s architecture. In 1987 Simatai was crowned a World Heritage site. Image credit: David Wicks
Time need: Full day
Facilities: Cable cars/battery cars
Accommodation options: Simataicun
Huanghuacheng
For the best lake and landscape views from the wall head to Huanghuacheng. Some parts of the wall are under water, and the area is mostly unrestored. Image credit: edward stojakovic
Time need: Full day
Facilities: Cruise boats
Accommodation options: Huanghuacheng
Juyongguan
Most famous for its fort, nestled at the bottom of the valley, this is one of the most accessible sections of the wall from Beijing and can be driven to within two hours.
Time need: 2-3 hours
Facilities: Wheelchair accessible
Accommodation options: [eafl id=”1665″ name=”Hotels in Beijing” text=”Beijing”]
Shanhai Pass
Shanhai Pass was a strategic pass in the Great Wall of China and, the closest section to the sea, it was a main defence against the Manchus. It is however always very crowded. Image Credit: Chez Julius Livre 1
Time need: 2-3 hours
Facilities: Cable cars, museum,
Accommodation options: [eafl id=”1665″ name=”Hotels in Beijing” text=”Beijing”]
Badaling
Baffling provides one of the most iconic images of the wall, but is always very crowded. Walk in a southerly direction as far as you can for the best views and least crowds.
Time need: 2-3 hours
Facilities: Cable cars, museum,
Accommodation options: [eafl id=”1665″ name=”Hotels in Beijing” text=”Beijing”]
Read about my adventure to the Great Wall of China here >
Great Wall of China Travel Advice
Getting there
Flights to China and Beijing specifically are relatively well priced. You should be able to pick up a direct return from around £400, and indirect even cheaper. Search for flights on Expedia here >
Accommodation
If you’re heading out to the Great Wall of China you’re likely to be coming from Beijing. Hotels in Beijing completely vary in price, but you can get a good 4* for around £40 per night. Hostels, of course, are dirt cheap. Look at all accommodation options here >
Getting to the Wall
The easiest way to get to the wall is on a tour. We used a company to put together a package for us with the three places. In hindsight whilst this was fine, it wasn’t the experience we wanted. I’d advise finding a tour company that will provide you with a driver only, cutting the cost of the guide. You choose where you want to visit and make the itinerary for them.
Guide books
