Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Guide with Stunning Scenery
By Leo
Hello, I’m Leo. I’ve visited Mutianyu Great Wall many times, and each visit feels different. In Beijing’s Huairou District, this section is quieter than Badaling, with ancient watchtowers, green mountains, and calm paths. Families, photographers, and history lovers all enjoy it. Every season offers new colors, from spring blossoms to autumn gold. This article will share what makes Mutianyu special and give you practical tips for planning your visit.
How to Get to Mutianyu Great Wall
Visiting the Mutianyu is one of the best experiences in Beijing. To make your trip smooth, here are the most convenient ways to get there from downtown.
- Bus + Transfer: From Dongzhimen Bus Station, take Bus 916 to Huairou Beigong Forest Park (about 1 hour). Transfer to Bus H23 or H24 to the Mutianyu Entrance. Total time: 1.5–2 hours.
- Subway + Bus: Take Line 13 to Dongzhimen Station, walk 5 minutes to the bus station, then follow the same bus route above. Best if you stay near the subway.
- Taxi or Ride-Hailing: Take a taxi or Didi from your hotel. The ride takes about 1.5 hours. Tell the driver “Mutianyu Great Wall Main Entrance.”
Stunning Scenery: Must-See Spots at Mutianyu Great Wall
The Mutianyu blends history, culture, and stunning scenery. Its 2.2 km stretch features unique towers, seasonal views from autumn leaves to winter snow, and magical sunrise and sunset moments—perfect for exploring and photos.
1. The 24 Ancient Enemy Towers
The Mutianyu stretches 2.2 kilometers with 24 towers, each with a unique design. Some have narrow windows, others spacious halls for soldiers. Step inside, touch the ancient bricks, and feel history come alive. From the top, endless green mountains unfold—a perfect spot for photos.
2. Autumn Red Leaves (October Mid to Early November)
Autumn is one of the best times to visit the Mutianyu. The surrounding trees turn red and yellow, their colors blending beautifully with the gray bricks. It feels like walking through a painting. Go in the morning when sunlight filters through the leaves—the soft light makes every photo stunning.
3. Winter Snow Scenery (December to February)
Winter is perfect if you love quiet and snowy scenery. After a snowfall, the Mutianyu Great Wall turns white, and the enemy towers look like sugar sculptures. With fewer crowds, you can walk slowly and hear the crunch of snow under your shoes. Just remember to dress warmly.
4. Sunrise & Sunset Spots
Sunrise: Get to the Great Wall at 6:30 AM (in spring/autumn). Walk to Tower 8 (North Section). The sun rises from behind the mountains. It paints the sky orange. The Great Wall glows in the sunlight.
Sunset: Go to Tower 15 (South Section) around 5:00 PM (in spring/autumn). The sun sets slowly. The mountains turn dark, but the Great Wall’s bricks still look warm. It’s a peaceful moment.
Practical Tour Guide for Mutianyu Great Wall
The Practical Tour Guide for Mutianyu Great Wall helps you plan your visit easily. Learn the best times of day, what to wear and bring, and choose easy or hiking routes. Perfect for families and active travelers alike.
Best Time to Visit Daily
- Morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM): Cool weather and fewer crowds. Ideal for hiking.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Avoid midday heat in summer. Great for sunset views.
- Noon (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Too hot in summer and harsh sunlight makes photos difficult.
What to Wear & Bring
Clothing: Wear comfortable sports shoes for walking on stone steps.
- Spring/Autumn: Light jacket and long-sleeve shirt (cool mornings, warm afternoons).
- Summer: Short-sleeve shirt, hat, and sunglasses (strong sun).
- Winter: Thick down jacket, gloves, and non-slip boots (steps may be icy).
Bring: Water bottle (refill at stations on the Great Wall), camera, and a small backpack for your belongings.
Easy Tour Routes
Easy Route (Families/Kids): Take the cable car to Tower 14, then walk north to Tower 20 (about 1 hour). Finish with the slide down. Enjoy beautiful views with minimal walking.
Hiking Route (Active Travelers): Start from the main entrance and walk up to Tower 1 (about 30 minutes), then continue north to Tower 10 (about 2 hours). Stop at each tower to rest and take photos, experiencing more details of the Great Wall.
Nearby Attractions to Extend Your Day at Mutianyu Great Wall
The Nearby Attractions to Extend Your Day at Mutianyu Great Wall let you explore more of Beijing. Visit the Summer Palace for lakes and gardens, or Mutianyu Village for local life and snacks.
Summer Palace: In northwest Beijing, famous for lakes, gardens, and historic halls. Stroll along Kunming Lake, walk the Long Corridor, and enjoy the pavilions and bridges.
Mutianyu Village: At the foot of the Great Wall. Walk through the village, see houses with red doors, and try local snacks like sweet potato porridge. Experience local life up close.
Comparing Mutianyu Great Wall to Other Sections
While many sections of the Great Wall are accessible from Beijing, Mutianyu stands out for specific reasons that cater to a wide range of visitors.
Why Mutianyu Great Wall is a Preferred Choice
Mutianyu is often recommended over other popular sections like Badaling due to its generally fewer crowds and more serene atmosphere. This allows for a more immersive and personal experience with the Wall. Its well-preserved state and comprehensive visitor facilities also contribute to its high appeal.
| Feature | Mutianyu Great Wall | Badaling Great Wall |
| Crowd Level | Generally less crowded, especially on weekdays. | Often very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. |
| Scenery | Picturesque with lush forests, diverse flora, and beautiful seasonal changes. | Impressive, but often characterized by more exposed, less vegetated landscapes. |
| Preservation | Very well-preserved and restored with 23 watchtowers. | Well-preserved, but has undergone more extensive reconstruction. |
| Accessibility | Offers cable car, chairlift, and fun toboggan slide for ascent/descent. | Features cable car and pulley system; less unique descent options. |
| Family Friendliness | Excellent, with options for all ages and fitness levels. | Good, but can be overwhelming for young children due to crowds. |
The Mutianyu Great Wall combines history, natural beauty, and convenience. With well-preserved watchtowers, stunning scenery, and easy access, it’s perfect for hiking, photos, or a leisurely visit. Prepare for an unforgettable experience.