Located in Huairou County about 45 miles from Beijing, the Mutianyu Great Wall enjoys a long history and is part of the historic culture of China. It connects to the Juyongguan Pass in the West and the Gubeikou Great Wall in the East. The wall was first built during the Northern Qi Dynasty (550 – 557). During Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644), Tan Lun and Qi Jiguang, two famous patriotic generals, rebuilt it in order to strengthen its defensive potential as they regarded it as a strategic block for national defense. It served as the Northern area’s protective block, guarding the capital and imperial mausoleums for generations.
Mutianyu Great Wall in winter
The fortifications and the Great Wall here are characterized by many watchtowers on overlapping mountain ranges. The wall was built with slabs of stones, is crenellated on both sides with bricks. Horsetrapping snares outside the wall offer better protection and ward off attacks. With Juyongguan in the west and Gubeikou in the east.
What makes Mutianyu Great Wall special?
Mutianyu Great Wall is the most beautiful section of the Great Wall. The vegetation coverage is about 96%. In summer, the mountains will be covered with green trees with the wall twisted and turned along the mountains. In late autumn, the leaves are turning yellow or red, the scenery is amazingly beautiful. The main pass of Mutianyu Great Wall is made up of three watchtowers. It is rarely seen in the history of the Great Wall.
The Structure of Mutianyu Great Wall
Mutianyu Great Wall is about 5400 meters long. It is the longest section of the Great Wall opening to the public.There are 23 watchtowers in Mutianyu Section. The Mutianyu Great Wall is of a special architectural style, as it is equipped with intensive watchtowers and perilous passses, battlements on both sides of the walls,and a main pass platform with three watchtowers standing abreast on the southeast side, which is quite rare along the whole Great Wall. The whole section streches and winds by following the terrains of the mountain, just rsesembling a huge dragon flying.
Mutianyu great wall in cloud mist
Opening Hours
Peak Season 7:00am-6:30pm
Low Season 7:30am-5:30pm
Entrance fee
Entrance fee: CNY 45
Scenic Shuttle Bus: CNY 20
Cable Car One Way: CNY 100
Cable Car Round Way: CNY 140
Toboggan One Way: CNY 100
Toboggan Round Way: CNY 140
Book Mutianyu entrance ticket online, skip the queue at ticket office.
The Map of Mutianyu Great Wall
Normal route: ticket center -> take scenic shuttle bus -> great wall entrance (start hiking or take cable car up)
Fast Pass: VIP car can drive directly to great wall entrance, skip the queue of shuttle bus (start hiking or take cable car up)
The hiking route on Mutianyu Great Wall
please checke the detailed Mutianyu great wall hiking route suggestions on this page.
How to Get to Mutianyu Great Wall from Beijing downtown
Bus (Meeting point departure):
Mutianyu great wall bus tour: Beijing to great wall round trip bus + entrance ticket, $29 p.p.
Private Car (Pickup from guest hotel):
Mutianyu great wall car service: Beijing hotels to great wall round trip, private car from $40 p.p.
Recommended Mutianyu Great Wall tours:
VIP private tour with Fast Pass, skip the queue for scenic shuttle bus
Bird view of Mutianyu Great Wall
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal times to explore Mutianyu are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its most picturesque
Mutianyu Great Wall in Autumn
Highlights and Activities:
- Hiking the Wall:
- Mutianyu offers both challenging and leisurely hiking options. The more adventurous can climb to the higher watchtowers for panoramic views.
- Cable Car Ride:
- For a more relaxed experience, take a cable car to the higher sections of the wall, allowing you to appreciate the stunning landscapes without the strenuous climb.
- Toboggan Descent:
- Add a touch of excitement to your visit by descending on the toboggan slide. It’s a thrilling and unique way to conclude your Great Wall adventure.
- Photography Spots:
- Capture the beauty of Mutianyu against the backdrop of lush greenery and rolling hills. The wall’s unique architectural features and winding path offer numerous photo opportunities.
Practical Tips:
- Comfortable Attire:
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and dress in layers, as the weather can change.
- Pack Essentials:
- Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
- Avoid Crowds:
- Visit on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons to avoid the peak tourist crowds.
- Respect the Environment:
- Help preserve the Great Wall by not littering and respecting the historical site.
Mutianyu Great Wall beckons adventurers, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. With its stunning views, diverse activities, and historical significance, a visit to Mutianyu is a journey back in time and an opportunity to connect with the awe-inspiring legacy of China’s past. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you traverse the ancient stone steps and bask in the grandeur of Mutianyu’s remarkable landscapes.