Mutianyu Great Wall: A Scenic and Less Crowded Experience
Mutianyu Great Wall is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and well-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. This guide will help you make the most of your visit with practical tips on transportation, best times to visit, and how to avoid crowds.
About Mutianyu Great Wall
Located in Huairou District, approximately 73 kilometers north of Beijing city center, Mutianyu Great Wall was first built in the Northern Qi Dynasty (550-577 AD) and rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD). With a total length of 2,250 meters and 22 watchtowers, it is famous for its unique architectural style and breathtaking natural scenery.
Unlike other sections such as Badaling, Mutianyu offers a more authentic and less crowded experience while still providing excellent facilities for visitors. It's particularly known for its beautiful scenery in all four seasons, with blooming flowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and snow-covered landscapes in winter.
Best Time to Visit
- Seasons: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
- Time of Day: Arrive early in the morning (around 8:30 when it opens) to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Avoid: Weekends, national holidays, and Chinese public holidays when the wall can be very crowded.
Exploration Routes
Mutianyu Great Wall offers several routes with varying difficulty levels. Here are some recommended options:
Cable Car Up & Down
Take the cable car to the 14th watchtower, then walk east to the 20th watchtower and west to the 6th watchtower before taking the cable car back down. This route covers the main scenic spots with minimal physical exertion.
Cable Car Up & Toboggan Down
Take the cable car to the 14th watchtower, explore the wall, and return via the toboggan slide from the 14th watchtower. This is a fun option especially for families with children.
Full Hiking Experience
For more adventurous visitors, hike up from the east entrance to the 20th watchtower, then walk west along the wall to the 6th watchtower before descending. This route offers the most authentic experience but requires good physical condition.
Practical Tips
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Great Wall has many steps and uneven surfaces, so sturdy walking shoes are essential.
- Bring Water and Snacks: There are limited food options on the wall, so bring water and light snacks. Stay hydrated, especially during summer.
- Sun Protection: The wall is mostly exposed to the sun, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during summer months.
- Entrance Fees: The entrance fee is around ¥40. Cable car and toboggan rides are additional (approximately ¥100 round trip). Consider purchasing a combined ticket to save money.
- Opening Hours: Mutianyu Great Wall is open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (April-October) and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (November-March). Last entry is 1 hour before closing.
Photography Tips
Best Viewpoints
The 14th watchtower offers panoramic views of the wall snaking through the mountains. The 20th watchtower provides great photo opportunities with fewer crowds.
Golden Hours
Early morning (8:30-10:00) and late afternoon (4:00-5:30) provide the best lighting for photography with softer shadows and warm tones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to visit Mutianyu Great Wall?
Plan to spend 3-4 hours at Mutianyu, including travel time from Beijing. If you plan to hike extensively, allocate more time.
Is Mutianyu Great Wall crowded?
Compared to Badaling, Mutianyu is much less crowded, especially on weekdays. However, it can get busy during weekends and holidays.
Is Mutianyu Great Wall accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the cable car provides access to the wall, there are still stairs and uneven surfaces. Wheelchair users may find limited accessibility on the wall itself.
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