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Great Wall of China
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Great Wall of China | The Ultimate Great Wall Travel Guide

Travel to Great Wall with a Locally-based China Travel Agency!

The Great Wall of China, often hailed as one of the world’s greatest wonders, stands as a symbol of China's ancient history, depicting the resilience and creativity of the Chinese people. With construction dating back to the 7th century BC, the wall served as a military defensive line, protecting the empire from invasions. Over the centuries, it has undergone multiple extensions, renovations, and reconstructions, making it the longest wall globally. Stretching over 13,000 miles across 15 provinces and regions in northern China, the Great Wall of China has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, known as one of the world's most impressive architectural feats.

Covering the entirety of the Wall in one go isn't feasible. However, you can explore the most popular and significant sections. Depending on the experience you're seeking - whether a well-preserved and easy-to-access area or a rugged, less-visited spot - our comprehensive, locally curated travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip.

Remember, the Great Wall is not just a sightseeing spot, but a journey into the rich tapestry of Chinese history. So, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, the Great Wall promises a memorable experience that will last a lifetime. Join us at Asia Odyssey Travel as we help you navigate this awe-inspiring landmark. With our local insights and expert guidance, prepare for a journey that promises not just sights to behold, but stories to be discovered, landscapes to be conquered, and history to be experienced in all its glory. Welcome to the Great Wall of China!

Great Wall of China Travel Essentials - Travel to Great Wall Before You Go

Before heading to the Great Wall of China, it's essential to know important travel information such as the most popular and challenging sections, the best time to visit, how to get there, what to see and do, and most importantly, planning ahead and carefully considering these factors. This will help ensure a smooth trip to the Great Wall. Check out the following Great Wall of China travel essentials for detailed information!
The Mutianyu Great Wall, located 73 kilometers from downtown Beijing, is the longest, fully restored, and best-preserved section of the Great Wall. Renowned for its beautiful scenery, it is often referred to as the "most beautiful part of the Great Wall." With a total length of 5...
The Great Wall of China winds for 21,000 km across the north of the country, and is one of humanity's most renowned creations. It has been listed as one of the "new" Seven Wonders of the World, alongside the Taj Mahal and the Colosseum. Its architectural grandeur enchants visitor...
The Great Wall of China, a monumental testament to the nation's rich history and cultural heritage, captivates the world with its timeless grandeur. Among its many sections, Jinshanling is recognized as one of the most photogenic and least crowded sections of the Great Wall. Buil...
As Professor Luo Zhewen said, a renowned Great Wall expert, "The Great Wall is the best of China's architecture, and Simatai is the best section of the Great Wall." The Simatai Great Wall is famed for its rugged charm and the steepness that draws thrill-seekers from around the wo...
Welcome to our engaging exploration of the Great Wall of China! In this blog post, we will unravel 25 facts about the Great Wall of China that traverse across various dimensions - history, engineering, protection, and its famous sections. We venture beyond the well-trodden path o...
Beijing, as the capital of China, is a must-see destination and considered the top tourist destination in the country. With over 3,000 years of rich history, it offers a unique blend of ancient history, modern culture, and natural wonders. As the ancient imperial capital, Beijing...

Explore the Great Wall of China on Map

The Great Wall of China extends from west to east in northern China, spanning from the eastern borders of Xinjiang to the Yalu River on the border of Liaoning and North Korea, leaving remnants throughout 15 provinces and municipalities: Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Hebei, Beijing, Tianjin, Liaoning, Jilin, Henan, Heilongjiang, and Shandong. Travel Great Wall of China by Map! Plan your Great Wall of China tour with ease by exploring the most popular sections on our dynamic Great Wall of China map, which helps you gain a better understanding of the Great Wall of China's geography and layout. View now!

Top 8 Sections Great Wall of China in Beijing

Our China travel experts have selected the Top 8 sections of the Great Wall that are highly recommended on TripAdvisor. These sections are not only visually stunning but also rich in history, providing a glimpse into China's ancient past and innovative architecture. Check out our list of top Great Wall sections to enhance your appreciation of the amazing experience that awaits you. Each segment holds its unique charm and story, ready to be unfolded by the enthusiastic traveler.
View More Inspiring Facts About the Great Wall of China

Best Things to Do at the Great Wall of China

What are the best things to do at the Great Wall of China? The Great Wall of China offers a plethora of exciting activities and experiences. Whether you're an adventurous hiker, a history enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of China, the Great Wall has something to offer for everyone.
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Great Wall of China Travel Itineraries 2023/2024

Our Great Wall of China tour packages is designed to offer you a unique and immersive experience with our knowledge guide and provide insightful commentary about the Wall's rich history. 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.

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4 Days
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Immerse yourself in the historical richness and grandeur of China with our 4-day Beijing Tour, "Stepping Back in Time”: A Tour of Beijing's Cultural Highlights, Historic Great Wall, and Ancient Wat...
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3 Days
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China's most famous landmark, and one of the world's most impressive sights, the Great Wall snakes its way across 17 provinces of China. However, nowhere beats Beijing as a base to explore it, with ...
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Beijing
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2 Days
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1 Place
Are you a Great Wall enthusiastic fan? Set off on an exceptional two-day China Great Wall Tour, traversing the historic trails of China's Great Wall at Mutianyu and Simatai. Mutianyu is one of the m...
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View More Great Wall Itineraries 2023/2024>>
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Frequently Asked Questions about
  • 1. What should I pack for a Great Wall hiking tour?+

    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.

  • 2. How to Plan a Great Will Night Tour?+

    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.

  • 3. How to Plan a Great Will Hiking Tour?+

    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.

  • 4. What is the best time of year to visit the Great Wall from Beijing?+

    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.

  • 5. Where can I visit the Great Wall of China?+

    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.

  • 6. Why visit Great Wall sections in Beijing?+

    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.

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