Visiting the Great Wall of China is an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking views, historical significance, and cultural enrichment. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you on a journey through one of the world's most iconic landmarks with a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, this guide has something for everyone.
Arrive in Beijing and check into your hotel. We recommend staying at the Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing Hotel for its central location and excellent amenities.
Begin your Beijing adventure with a leisurely stroll around Wangfujing Street, one of the city's most famous shopping streets. Here, you can enjoy local snacks, shop for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the bustling city atmosphere.
For lunch, head to Da Dong Roast Duck Restaurant, renowned for its perfectly roasted Peking Duck. It's a must-try culinary experience that sets the tone for your trip.
In the evening, join a guided tour for a brief introduction to the history of the Great Wall of China. Many local tour companies offer evening lectures and briefings which can be an informative start to your journey. Some highly recommended guides can be booked through your hotel concierge.
Return to your hotel and prepare for an early start the next day, when you will embark on your adventure to one of the Great Wall’s famous sections.
Wake up early and have breakfast at your hotel. Afterward, head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and less crowded sections, known for its stunning scenery and historical significance. We suggest arranging for a private car or joining a group tour for convenience. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Mutianyu from downtown Beijing.
You can book a stay at the Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Wangshanyuan Homestay if you prefer to stay close to the Wall the night before.
Arrive at the Mutianyu Great Wall. Before starting your hike, take some time to explore the visitor center to learn more about the history and significance of this section. Begin your hike from the base; you can either walk up the hill or take a cable car for a quicker ascent.
If you opt to hike, be prepared for some steep steps, but you'll be rewarded with fewer crowds and breathtaking views as you make your way to the top.
Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water to enjoy a meal on the Wall. Mutianyu offers various scenic spots where you can rest and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Wall snaking into the distance.
After lunch, continue your exploration of Mutianyu. Some highlights include the Zhengguan Terrace and the picturesque watchtowers. If you enjoy photography, this section provides plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images.
When you’re ready to descend, you can either hike back down or take the fun and exciting toboggan ride, which provides a unique and thrilling way to end your visit.
Return to Beijing in the late afternoon. After arriving back at your hotel, take some time to relax and freshen up. For dinner, explore one of Beijing's many dining options. Consider trying Haidilao Hot Pot, famous for its delicious broths and interactive dining experience.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, set off early for the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall. This section is located around 125 kilometers northeast of Beijing and offers a perfect combination of restored and wild Wall sections. Travel time is approximately 2.5 hours by car, so consider arranging transportation in advance.
Upon arrival, prepare for one of the most rewarding hikes. Jinshanling is known for its preserved watchtowers and breathtaking landscapes, providing both adventure and photographic moments. The hike here can be more challenging than Mutianyu, but it's less crowded and offers some of the best views of the Wall.
Make sure to wear comfortable hiking boots and bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. The trail from Jinshanling to Simatai (East Gate) is about 5-6 km and takes around 3-4 hours.
Stop at a scenic spot along the Jinshanling section to enjoy your packed lunch. The relatively lesser traffic on this section means you can find a quiet area to relax and take in the panoramic vistas of the Great Wall undulating over the mountainous terrain.
After lunch, continue exploring the Jinshanling section, moving towards the Simatai section if you are up for a more extended trek. This area is known for its steep inclines and rugged terrain, offering a glimpse at the Great Wall in its more natural state.
If you prefer a shorter trek, spend some additional time exploring more of the Jinshanling watchtowers, each of which offers unique views and insights into the Wall's defensive architecture.
After a full day of exploration, head back to Beijing. Arrive at your hotel in the evening, where you can freshen up and relax. For dinner, try the Little Yunnan Restaurant, known for its delicious Yunnan cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
Exploring the Great Wall of China is more than just visiting a historical site; it’s an adventure through time, culture, and unparalleled natural beauty. From the well-preserved steps of Mutianyu to the rugged trails of Jinshanling, each section of the Wall offers its own unique story and spectacular views.
Step onto the busy sidewalks and get caught up in the history and vastness of Manila. This sprawling metropolis is the capital of the Philippines and boasts a unique mix of colonial architecture and ultra-modern skyscrapers. If travelers are searching for a location that’s rich in history and attractions and is also filled with top accommodation offerings, then Manila is the city for them.
Ehime Prefecture offers an abundance of nature and culture. It is full of exciting sea and mountain activities, such as cycling the 70 km Shimanami Kaido route around the islands in the Seto Inland Sea, trekking the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and climbing Mt. Ishizuchi—the highest peak of western Japan. You can also relax at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring areas, or explore Ehime’s historical spots, like Matsuyama Castle and the Edo Period towns. It takes around 30 minutes to travel from Matsuyama Airport to Matsuyama City by airport bus. And with trams that travel within Matsuyama City and to Dogo Onsen, accessing tourist attractions around the area couldn’t be easier!
This article is sponsored by “Kyoritsu Maintenance Co., Ltd.” Presented by Kyoritsu Maintenance Co., Ltd. / The Beach Tower Okinawa Chatan Town is located in the central region of Okinawa’s main island. Along the west coast facing the East China Sea, a series of beaches offers the perfect setting to soak in the vivid blue […]
Where you stay in Singapore will play a big role in how you experience the city. Here is a look at some of the best hotels in Singapore highlighting standout stays across the city and Sentosa Island. From stylish urban retreats to family-friendly resorts, you’ll find top-notch options to match your itinerary, travel style, and budget.
From buzzing city centers to tropical coastlines, Malaysia is a country that caters to every kind of traveler with every kind of hotel. Here’s a roundup of some of the top hotels in Malaysia that combine excellent locations, great amenities, and real value, helping you narrow down where to stay in Malaysia no matter your travel style or budget.
Whether you’re visiting Hong Kong for the vibrant food scene, high-rise shopping districts, or a peaceful escape in the outlying islands, choosing the right place to stay can elevate your entire experience. This roundup of the top hotels in Hong Kong brings together stylish urban retreats, conveniently located business hotels, and relaxing escapes, all with easy access to the city’s most iconic spots. If you’re wondering where to stay in Hong Kong, these top picks are a great place to start.
Whether you’re drawn to Taiwan for its street food, hiking trails, or vibrant cultural history, finding the right place to stay can make your trip even more memorable. The best hotels in Taiwan offer more than just a place to sleep; they help complete the whole experience. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a few weeks, these hotel recommendations will help you find the right fit for your travel style.
From tech-forward business hubs in Shenzhen to scenic water towns like Suzhou, this overview of the best hotels in China will help you figure out where to stay in China, no matter your travel style. With options ranging from sleek skyscraper suites to tranquil garden resorts, there’s truly something for everyone.
Indeed, the shopping scene is legendary in South Korea, and knowing what to buy in Seoul is key to planning a fantastic shopping spree. In a way, the city of Seoul is almost like a big department store, with various sections boasting a reputation for being the premier place to haul in certain goods. Explore […]
Discover 10 unforgettable experiences in Florence beyond the tourist trail. Uncover hidden gems and local favorites—start your adventure today!
Discover the ultimate Mumbai adventure! Explore 10 fun-filled places to visit in Mumbai with friends and create unforgettable memories. Start your journey now!
Discover the ultimate snow park experience in Goa! From thrilling rides to family fun, explore our guide and plan your perfect chill-out day.
Discover where the Sinulog Festival is celebrated in Cebu, Philippines! Join the vibrant festivities and immerse yourself in this unforgettable cultural experience.
Discover the captivating tales at Hanoi's Military History Museum! Dive into a fun day of learning and adventure—plan your visit now!
Capture unforgettable moments at Lory Park Zoo! Discover tips for stunning lory park zoo photos and make your Johannesburg adventure memorable. Click to learn more!
Discover Mumbai's famous places that promise an epic adventure! Explore our top 10 must-visit spots and start planning your unforgettable journey today!
Discover the Aryavart Escape and capture stunning Panshet photos on your Pune getaway! Dive into our guide for tips and breathtaking spots. Start your adventure now!
Discover the charm of Hanoi's Train Street! Join us for a day of thrilling train sightings and delightful coffee sips. Click to explore this unique experience!
Dive into adventure at the Dubai Aquarium! Discover the thrill of swimming with sharks and make unforgettable memories. Plan your visit today!
Discover Central Jakarta's vibrant food scene! Dive into street eats and hidden cafés that will tantalize your taste buds. Start your culinary adventure now!
Discover Bangkok's quirky side with 10 unusual things to do that will make you smile. Dive into the fun—explore now for a unique adventure!