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As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China stands not just as an architectural marvel, but also as a symbol of China's extensive history and the indomitable spirit of its people. Experiencing and witnessing this wonder of the world firsthand is an incredible opportunity that has captivated people for centuries. A Great Wall tour is also a must for most first China trips.
The Great Wall of China, stretching over 13,000 miles (21,000 km), passes through15 provinces and regions in northern China. Strategically placed around Beijing , you can discover ten sections of the Great Wall that date back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). From the most popular sections like Badaling and Mutianyu, to the less trodden paths of Jinshanling , Huanghuacheng, Jiankou, and Simatai, each offers its own unique charm and historical significance.
Our Great Wall of China tours are designed to offer you a unique and immersive experience with our knowledge guide, transporting you back in time as you traverse the same paths ancient soldiers once walked. Whether you are seeking a leisurely stroll along restored sections or embracing the adventure of exploring the wild, original, and unrepaired Wall, or enjoying the tranquility of a night experience at your own pace, we've got you covered.
The Great Wall has multiple sections, each with its own unique features and scenery. For unfamiliar visitors, it may be difficult to determine which section. With Asia Odyssey Travel, Your Great Wall tours can be customized to match your preferences. If you're in search of the perfect Great Wall experience - meticulously planned, immersive, and tailored to your specific interests and requirements - you'll find our Great Wall of China Tours exceed expectations. Contact us to tailor-make your Great Wall tour.
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Experience the breathtaking majesty of the Great Wall of China from Beijing, the heart of the country. As a first-time traveler to Beijing, we recommend our Great Wall of China Tours from Beijing, which are combined with city highlights and the Great Wall, ranging from 2 to 5 days in length. Our packages include transportation and knowledgeable guides who will provide insightful commentary about the Wall's rich history.
Experience the magic and mystery of the Great Wall under the stars with our night tours. Witness the wall illuminated in the moonlight, its contours stretching out against the night sky. Our Great Wall of China Night Tours provides a unique, less crowded, and serene experience, one that allows for quiet contemplation and a deeper connection with this awe-inspiring monument. This isn't just a tour, but a unique memory of the Great Wall.
The Great Wall is a physical challenge that rewards the soul. Beijing is within striking distance of a number of stretches of the Great Wall and that means there are plenty of excellent hiking opportunities for would-be adventurers. Following is a list of some of our popular Great Wall hiking routes near Beijing. Taking our Great Wall of China Hiking Tours, hike along the ancient battlements and watchtowers, while experiencing magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes. Our experienced hiking guides will ensure your safety and provide an engaging, informative tour. Relax and enjoy the wonders of the Great Wall without worry..
Complete your China experience with a comprehensive tour package that includes the Great Wall among other iconic attractions like the Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, and more. Explore China's vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse landscapes. These tours come in various durations and can be tailored according to your preferences and interests. They're an excellent choice if you're looking to truly immerse yourself in everything China has to offer.
Beijing, China's capital city, is the primary gateway to the most visited sections of the Great Wall. It is within reach of several sections of the Wall, each with its unique features and appeal. But planning a visit to such an iconic landmark can be overwhelming, especially when you want to make the most out of your time. Our useful articles and planning guides offer in-depth information to aid you in your journey. From choosing the best time to visit, selecting the right section of the Wall based on your preferences, understanding the historical significance of each section, to knowing what to pack for your Great Wall hike, we've got you covered.
Gear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in layers. Carry a raincoat or umbrella.
Supplies: Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
Protection: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent as needed.
Guidance: Consider hiring a local guide for a richer experience and safer navigation.
Weather: Check the forecast before you go and prepare accordingly.
Accessories: Battery, phone, camera, GPS
Respect the wall: Take all trash with you and avoid the further damages.
Option 1: Mutianyu-Simatai Night Tour (Two-day trip)
Day 1:
Morning: Depart from your hotel in Beijing and drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall (around a 1.5-2 hours’ drive). Ascend the wall via the cable car up to the 14th watchtower and hike along the wall, exploring its unique features and views. Afterward, choose your method of descent - the cable car, toboggan, or walking.
Afternoon/Evening: Make the 2-hour transfer to the Simatai Great Wall. After checking into your hotel in Gubei Water Town at the base of the Simatai Great Wall, take the cable car up to the Wall to begin your night tour. Enjoy the illuminated spectacle of the Wall and the surrounding landscape before descending via cable car.
Day 2:
Morning/Afternoon: After breakfast, spend your day exploring Gubei Water Town. Enjoy the authentic courtyard-style houses, ancient bridges, and quaint lanes before your 2-hour transfer back to your hotel in Beijing.
Option 2:Jinshanling-Simatai Night Tour (Two-day trip)
Day 1:Morning: Your guide will meet you at your hotel and you'll drive to the Jinshanling Great Wall (approximately 2.5 hours). Spend the day exploring this less crowded and photogenic section of the Wall, hiking from the Zhuanduokou Pass to the East Tower with Five Holes.
Afternoon/Evening: Transfer to the Simatai Great Wall. After checking into your hotel in Gubei Water Town, take the cable car up to the Wall for your night tour. Marvel at the stunning transformation of the Wall under the night sky, adorned by the soft glow of lights.
Day 2:
Morning/Afternoon: After breakfast, take the day to explore Gubei Water Town. Enjoy the authentic courtyard-style houses, ancient bridges, and quaint lanes. In the afternoon, return to your hotel in Beijing.
1.Most Challenging Section – Jiankou to Mutianyu: Difficult
This route is for thrill-seekers and seasoned hikers looking for a challenge. It takes you through some of the most rugged, steep, and unrestored sections of the Great Wall, providing a raw and authentic experience. The hike takes about 4-5 hours, covering a 10km trek.
2.Most Rural and Historical Section – Gubeikou to Jinshanling: Moderate
Perfect for history buffs and those wanting to escape the city's hustle and bustle, this route offers a trip through time. It takes you from Gubeikou, a less touristy section abundant with historical sites, to Jinshanling, known for its beautifully preserved watchtowers and broad views. This hike is a moderate challenge and can take 4-5 hours, covering a 10km trek.
3.Most Photogenic Section – Jinshanling to Simatai West: Easy
This route is a paradise for photographers. Both Jinshanling and Simatai West sections offer some of the Great Wall's best views, with their well-preserved structures set against stunning natural scenery. The hike is moderate and takes about 3-4 hours, covering a 5km trek.
Spring (April to June): Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Great Wall. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the surrounding landscapes burst into life with blooming flowers and lush greenery. However, it can be a bit crowded, especially during the May Labor Day holiday.
Summer (July to August): Summer offers long days and lush landscapes, but it can be quite hot and rainy, especially in July. The Great Wall can also be quite crowded during the summer holidays. However, if you don't mind the heat and crowds, the Great Wall is beautifully green during this time.
Autumn (September to October): Many argue that autumn is the best time to visit the Great Wall. The weather is comfortable, and the fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop, particularly in the sections like Mutianyu. It is also less crowded than in summer.
Winter (November to March): Winter visits are for the adventurous. The Great Wall is least crowded during this time, and if you're lucky, you might see the Great Wall covered in snow, which is a spectacular sight. However, it's freezing, and some sections might be closed due to icy conditions.
The Great Wall of China is a vast and complex system of fortifications that stretches across several Chinese provinces. While some of the most popular and well-known sections of the wall are located near Beijing, there are many other sections of the wall that are worth visiting and can be accessed from other cities. Here are the places to visit the Great Wall of China:
1. Great Wall of Beijing: The most popular and well-known sections of the wall are located near Beijing, such as the Mutianyu Great Wall, Jingshanling Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall, Jiankou Great Wall, and Badaling Great Wall.
2. Great Wall of Shanhaiguan: This section of the Great Wall is located in Qinhuangdao, a coastal city in Hebei province. It is known for its unique architecture and stunning coastal views.
3. Great Wall of Jiayuguan: This section of the Great Wall is located in Jiayuguan, a city in Gansu province. It is known for its western-style fortifications and desert landscapes.
4. Great Wall of Dunhuang: This section of the Great Wall is located in Dunhuang, a city in Gansu province. It is known for its colorful murals and stunning desert landscapes.
5. Great Wall of Henan Province: There are several sections of the Great Wall located in Henan province, including the Yuntai Mountain section and the Yinxu section, which is known for its ancient ruins.
6. Great Wall of Inner Mongolia: There are several sections of the Great Wall located in Inner Mongolia, including the Hulunbuir Grassland section and the Hohhot section, which is known for its unique architecture.
As one of the world's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Wall of China stretches over 13,000 miles (21,000 kilometers) across northern China. It was built over several centuries by various Chinese dynasties to protect against invasions from the north. This vast and complex system of fortifications are mainly located in several Chinese provinces such as Hebei, Gansu, Shanxi, Henan, and Inner Mongolia.
But some of the most popular and well-known sections of the wall are located near Beijing, such as the Mutianyu Great Wall, Jingshanling Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall, Jiankou Great Wall, and Badaling Great Wall.
1. Badaling Great Wall (Most Famous One and The Most Tourists Visited):
This section of the Great Wall is located about 47 miles (75 kilometers) north of Beijing and is the most popular and well-preserved section of the wall.
2. Mutianyu Great Wall (Most Popular with Foreign Tourists):
This section of the Great Wall is located about 55 miles (88 kilometers) northeast of Beijing and is known for its scenic views and well-preserved fortifications.
3. Jingshanling Great Wall (Most Popular Among Photographers):
This section of the Great Wall is located about 81 miles (130 kilometers) northeast of Beijing and is known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking views.
4. Simatai Great Wall (The Only Great Wall that can be Visited at Night): This section of the Great Wall is located about 80 miles (130 kilometers) northeast of Beijing and is known for its steep slopes and watchtowers.
You can also visit Juyongguan Great Wall (one of the eight scenic spots in Beijing), Jiankou Great Wall, and Huanghuacheng Water Great Wall (a holiday resort integrating the Great Wall, lakes and mountains).
Overall, a Beijing Great Wall Tour is a must-do for many visitors to China, offering a unique and unforgettable experience of China's rich history and natural beauty. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a Great Wall tour is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Beijing.
Patricia N
Singapore
Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai
Date of Experience: May 11, 2015
Tour Customized by: Claire
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Zayan
Australia
Destination(s): Beijing
Date of Experience: May 07, 2019
Tour Customized by: Hannah
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Malwina Kowalczyk
US
Destination(s): Beijing
Date of Experience: Oct 03, 2023
Tour Customized by: Emma
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