Mutianyu Great Wall: Your Ultimate Travel Guide for 2025

Mutianyu Great Wall is one of the most well-preserved and best sections of the Great Wall to visit. It is situated between the Jiankou Great Wall in the west and the Gubeikou Great Wall in the east, which is 73 km (45 miles) away from the center of Beijing.

Mutianyu’s history can be traced back 1,400 years. It was originally built for national defense. Later, the General of the Ming Dynasty (1404), Xuda, supervised the construction of Mutianyu, which was restored, expanded, and renovated several times. The building of various passes lengthened and widened the wall to consolidate the defensive boundary and provide shelters for soldiers.

Mutianyu Great Wall of China is characterized by an architectural masterpiece with a multitude of watchtowers in various styles, and the natural barrier formed by greenery. It was named the national AAAAA scenic spot in 2011, part of which is undeveloped but still draws numerous visitors from home and abroad. Scroll and learn more about its highlights.

Why Mutianyu Stands Out Among the Great Wall Sections

Mutianyu has unique features compared with other Great Wall sections. The Mutianyu Great Wall was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and China’s 5A-rated attraction in 2011. This huge project is the most well-established defense system in Chinese history, whose construction was initially to prevent invasion from the northern nomads.

Not only a precious part of the Ming Great Wall, the Mutianyu is also a historical structure as one of the most representative sections of the Great Wall. This section is viewed as the essence of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty.

In addition to its historical significance, the Mutianyu Great Wall has breathtaking scenery, covered with 96% vegetation. Its dynamic sceneries are composed of lush greenery in spring and summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and snowy winter views.

Mutianyu Great Wall of China is family-friendly. Cable cars, toboggan rides, and restored watchtowers for accessibility. Cable cars offer access elevators for those who use wheelchairs, and are also available for kids and seniors. Visitors can ascend through cable cars and take a chairlift or toboggan when descending to enjoy the landscapes around the watchtowers.

The Great Wall at Mutianyu stretches 5.4 km with 23 watchtowers, the densest cluster on the Great Wall, which was regarded as one of the architectural wonders. Tourists can enjoy an authentic and incredible view of the historic site from the watchtowers built by layers of bricks, on which you can feel the wisdom of the ancient Chinese people and their blood and tears when building the Great Wall.

Mutianyu Great Wall is characterized by double-sided parapets, a defining feature, and a rare defensive design in the history of the Wall. It allowed soldiers to fire arrows from both sides. Besides, the Great Wall adopted the triangular watchtower complex, also called Zhengguan Pass. It is a unique formation of three interlinked towers at the western end, making it stand out from other watchtowers.

Highlights of the Mutianyu Great Wall

As one of the best Great Wall sections, Mutianyu provides tourists with a chance to explore more highlights of this unique historical structure. All watchtowers in this section are divided into 3 parts:  the western section, the eastern section, and the middle section. Distributed watchtowers have 23 various forms. One of the best-known belongs to the Zhengguan Platform.

Zhengguan Pass (Zhengguan Platform)

Zhengguantai is also called Zhengguan Terrace, which is the most iconic and unique structure and belongs to the No.4 watchtower. The pass was built on the lowest ridge line with a length of 40 meters, a width of 30 meters, and a height of 20 meters.

The gate is characterized by three side-by-side hollow towers, with the largest tower lying in the middle and two smaller ones on two sides. It is the only triple watchtower complex in China, offering panoramic views of three valleys. These three towers form a two-layer terrace with upper and lower levels. The lower one is composed of multiple rooms for storing grains and stationing troops.

Da Jiao Lou (the Great Watchtower)

Da Jiao Lou is also named the Great Watchtower, situated at a commanding height in the east of Mutianyu. It ranks as the No. 1 watchtower, seen as one of the most well-known scenic spots in the Mutianyu section. The Tower is interlinked with three sections from three different sides, and they are Mutianyu in the west, Gubeikou in the east, and the city wall in the south. It looks like a corner no matter from which angle. That’s the reason why it is also known as the Big Corner Tower.

No.14 Watchtower

The No.14 watchtower is located in the western part of Mutianyu, also known as the graffiti wall, where three walls were set here for tourists to make a mark. Moreover, a stone tablet erected here, carved with “The man who does not reach the Great Wall is not a true man.” It is good for photos to leave a souvenir. Owing to its higher position, the tower offers a panoramic view of the Jiankou Great Wall and a glimpse of Eagle Flies Facing Upwards.

Top Things to Do at Mutianyu

Each section of Mutianyu suits different ways of visiting. It also depends on which sections you want to see. Exploring Mutianyu Great Wall through the following must-experience activities, like hiking, cable car, toboggan, etc., to maximize your visit while appreciating stunning landscapes from various angles.

Hiking

Hiking must be the top choice for hiking enthusiasts. Climbing in different seasons, you can immerse yourself in diverse seasonal views, such as flower blossoms in spring, lush green in summer, peak foliage in autumn, and snow-covered mountains in winter. Hiking is also a communication with history, which also makes visitors feel the dedication of ancient laborers through every brick.

If hiking on the Great Wall, you should start from the 2nd ticket entrance gate. It will take you about 40 minutes to reach the No.6 or 8 watchtowers. Or if you prefer the iconic and authentic views, watchtowers 14 to 23 can be your best destinations. Several Chinese or Western restaurants sit at the foot of the mountain with a wide range of delicacies, which can refresh you after the trudge.

Photography

The essence of the Great Wall provides all photography lovers with a natural curtain so that they can capture every vibrant moment. And the changing seasons also energize the pictures. It can be a paradise no matter for amateurs or professional shutterbugs. If you’re interested, except for the No.14 watchtower mentioned above, Tower 20, located at the highest point, can be the best place as well, with a spectacular sunset and wide horizons.

Cable Car

Riding the cable car or chairlift not only saves time but also offers panoramic vistas. It is recommended to take the cable car when ascending the Great Wall and experience the thrilling descent through the toboggan. There are 2 routes for cable cars, one of which is a safer and cozier route from the entrance of Mutianyu to the No.14 watchtower. The other route can bring visitors an exciting slide, connected to Tower 6. You can choose a preferred route as needed.

Toboggan Ride

The Mutianyu Great Wall is featured by the steep terrain, which provides a perfect condition to toboggan down the mountain with a 1,500-meter slide. The toboggan ride provides a thrilling slide for adventure seekers, which is also a good way to beat stress. There is another 1,000-meter slide from the eastern peak back to the base—perfect for families.

Night Experience

The Great Wall at Mutianyu is perfect for experiencing a night sightseeing, which will reveal a unique and charming side of the wall, and offer sightseers an unforgettable journey. During some public holidays in summer, including May Day (May 1-3), National Day (Oct. 1-7), etc., the section from Tower 10 to Tower 15 is available for night sightseeing, which is open from 5:30 pm. to 9:00 pm. 200 yuan/ ticket is for the night trip, covering an entrance ticket, a return ticket for the cable car, and a tour bus ticket. If getting a single ticket in summer, you can appreciate the view from morning to night.

Best Time to Visit Mutianyu Great Wall

People can find different seasonal highlights of the Mutianyu Great Wall, especially in summer and autumn. In spring, between April and May, you can be immersed in mild weather and blooming flowers. Summer, from June to August, brings plenty of sunshine and leafy branches all over the mountains. With autumn (September–November) coming, clear skies, golden foliage, and crisp air will prepare a refreshing trip for you. In winter, from December to February, tourists can enjoy snow-covered vistas. Fewer crowds in the winter season can ease the queues. It is advised to bring heavy clothes against the cold. Compared with central Beijing, it’s colder in the mountains.

How to Visit Mutianyu Great Wall

Western Route
This western route is a round trip, from Tower 14 to Tower 20, including the highest point of the Mutianyu Great Wall. Of the three routes, this route is the most popular, and the hiking from No.14 to No.19 watchtower is relatively easy. The part from Tower 19 to Tower 20 is more challenging, which is a test of strength and endurance, and it requires hiker courage and perseverance.

Eastern Route
The eastern route forms a “V” shape, including a descent from Tower 6 to Tower 4, and a sharp ascent from Tower 4 to Tower 1. The route is demanding physically, which is suitable for veterans or people who are invigorated and athletic.

Middle Route
Compared with the previous two routes, the middle route is relatively flat but longer, which is suitable for you to explore beautiful and lush scenery while hiking. Or you can take a cable car up to the No.14 Watchtower and then walk down to the No.6 Tower. Descending through a cable car or toboggan ride from Tower 6 allows you to better enjoy the landscapes along the way.

How to Get Mutianyu Great Wall Tickets

Ticket Price:

Tickets Adults Children (6-18) and Seniors (60+) Entrance Ticket 40 RMB 20 RMB Postcard Ticket + Shuttle Bus (round trip) 55 RMB 35 RMB Postcard Ticket + Shuttle (round trip) + Cable Car/Toboggan (round trip) 195 RMB 175 RMB

Notes:
1. Children under 6 years old can be free for entrance tickets.
2. Cable car or Toboggan is free for children under 1.2 meters (3.9 feet).
3. 5 RMB more for the entrance ticket with a postcard of Mutianyu.

How to Get the Tickets:
1. Visitors can choose to purchase tickets in the visitor center, which is not recommended, because the tickets may sell out early.
2. It is advised to buy tickets online through the Mutianyu Great Wall website in advance. Tickets can be booked 15 days early on the website.

How to Get to Mutianyu Great Wall from Beijing

Mutianyu Great Wall is situated in Mutianyu Village, Bohai Town, Huairou District of Beijing, China. Mutianyu Great Wall is 75km away from downtown Beijing (about 2 2-hour drive).

To Airport:
Mutianyu Great Wall is 60km away from the Beijing Capital Airport (about 2 2-hour drive);
Mutianyu Great Wall is 120km away from the Beijing Daxing International Airport (about a 2.5-hour drive);

To Railway Station:
Mutianyu Great Wall is 82km away from the Beijing West Railway Station (about a 2.5-hour drive);
Mutianyu Great Wall is 85km away from the Beijing South Railway Station (about a 2.5-hour drive).

Public Transport:

It might be challenging to travel by public transportation, which concerns many aspects like travel route selection, luggage placement, language barrier, and ticket line, etc. It will be crowded at weekends or in peak seasons, and the poorly ventilated space is unfriendly to people with motion sickness.

Travel with Hi Five Trip

If you prefer a more convenient journey to get out of pushing and squeezing, and trifles, you can make a reservation for a private tour package with us, recommended for flexibility. The package includes guided tours and hotel pickup and drop-off. Tour guides and drivers from HFT can ensure you have a comfortable trip.

Useful Tips for Visiting Mutianyu Great Wall

Practical Advice

1. Wear comfortable shoes for steep steps.
2. Check the local weather in advance to take appropriate seasonal clothing. A pair of sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat in summer can protect you from the glaring sun. An umbrella and a raincoat for the rain.
3. Carry water and snacks to replenish your strength, as limited vendors on the Wall.
4. Arrive as early as possible to avoid crowds. It will be full of peak crowds at weekends and on public holidays.
5. Book tickets online in advance during peak seasons.

Family-Friendly Tips for Visiting Mutianyu

1. Many easy accessibilities and developed tourist infrastructures exist, covering strollers for babies, restaurants for refueling, and some souvenir shops. Parents can rent a stroller (50 RMB/hour) near the entrance.
2. Gentle slopes in the central zone, which are convenient for elders and kids.
3. There are some kid-friendly activities. For example, kids and parents can get involved in interactive games and scavenger hunts for ancient watchtower symbols.
4. Some wildlife spotting, monkeys near the eastern trail, usually attract children’s attention.
5. Picnic zones are set up suitable for family outings.
6. Designated areas with benches near Watchtower 6 and 14 offer places to take a break.

Nearby Attractions

Gubei Water Town

Gubei Water Town is not only a tourist resort but also a Ming-style village with canals and hot springs, which is about 2 2-hour drive from the Mutianyu Great Wall. It was once a crucial military stronghold with plenty of water. For now, its incredible scenery, like colorful leaves in the autumn season during mid-late October, appeals to numerous visitors. From the church on the top of the hill, you can see the beauty around you.

The Yongshun dye room in the town takes visitors through weaving and tie-dye culture, one of the traditional Chinese crafts. Chinese shadow puppetry takes you to feel the unique charm brought by this intangible cultural heritage. In addition, parents can take their kids to the local kite museum for a taste of kite culture.

Hongluo Temple

It is said that “Hongluo Temple is as well-known as Putuo Temple in China south.” Hongluo Temple is a 1,700-year-old Buddhist temple, the birthplace of Buddhism in the north. It was an imperial place for blessing, for now, many single youngsters come here to pray for romance.

Local natural beauty provides an amazing background for taking pictures. A 600-year-old ginkgo tree in the temple has witnessed history and changes. Besides, the temple is also known for the imperial bamboo forests, considered one of the three stunning views in Hongluo Temple.

Yanqi Lake

Yanqi Lake was listed as a 4A tourist attraction in 2002. The lake is surrounded by mountains with a vegetation coverage of 85% and a hundred different kinds of plants. During the springtime, visitors can enjoy the peach blossoms all over the hills. People can catch a glimpse of magnificent mountains and take a photo to freeze the moment of the sparkling lake while strolling on the West Hill trail. In addition to that, it is advised to rent a paddleboat or hike the lakeside trail for lakeside Great Wall views.

FAQs about the Mutianyu Great Wall

1. Is Mutianyu crowded?
Less foot traffic than at the Badaling Great Wall, but busy on weekends. You are advised to arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds.

2. Is the Mutianyu section wheelchair accessible?
It is limited to flat zones near the entrance.

3. When is the best season for photos?
Autumn and winter are the best times for photos. Autumn is for golden leaves and winter for snowy landscapes.

4. Is Mutianyu suitable for seniors/children?
Yes, thanks to cable cars and gentle slopes.

5. Mutianyu vs. Badaling: Which is better?
It depends on your preference. Mutianyu has fewer crowds and scenic diversity compared with the Badaling Great Wall.

6. Can I visit Mutianyu in half a day?
Yes, you can visit with a well-planned itinerary.

7. Should I take a private or group tour to visit the Mutianyu Great Wall?
Group bus tour offers good value for money, but sticking to a fixed itinerary includes stopping at souvenir factories, gathering in designated positions, and keeping pace with the whole group. Private tours are more flexible compared with a busy schedule. Arranged tickets for you to minimize your time in lines. And your guide will help you avoid the crowd to maximize your trip.

Explore Mutianyu Great Wall with Hi Five Trip

In addition to that, you can tailor a unique trip to China with the help of our experienced China travel consultants.