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Exploring the Great Wall was the main draw to visiting Beijing, because we love a UNESCO site and a world wonder; okay!

Visiting the attraction doesn’t have to be arduous or unattainable; keep reading for our tips.

Why was the Great Wall built?

• The primary function of the wall was for protection from invasion by Mongolian and Manchu armies from the North.

How far is the Great Wall from Beijing:

• Badaling is approximately 1.5 hours by car or about 2.5 hours by tour bus. 
• Mutianyu is about 2 hours by car.

When to visit: Autumn or Spring

• Autumn brings a different variety of colours to the leaves and greenery around the wall which makes for a pretty sight.
• Spring brings awesome weather and less people.
• Summer is still nice but it does get super hot.
• Winter brings frost-covered scenes but the cold air will feel even colder due to the wind.

Do’s:

• There is more than one entrance up to the Great Wall, so depending on what you’d like to see and how long you have – this could be a full day excursion.
• We visited the Mutianyu part of the wall – it’s the most restored section of the wall and offers the best picturesque views.
• You can hike to the top or you can get a cable car up and down.
• If you are feeling adventurous – get a toboggan down!
• Remember there is no shade for the majority of the walk; so sunscreen, water and flannel.
• Be prepared for the elements in whichever season you go.
• Book a tour guide with reviews online; they can offer you further insight into the history.
• Try some local cuisine in the Great Wall park.

Top Tip: Avoid the Great Wall during Chinese holidays, or you may get caught up in the crowds.

Don’ts:

• Don’t wear open-toed shoes; there are loose pieces of rock and insects. There have been sightings of snakes in the bush around!
• Plan/try to camp on the wall.
• Take pictures in precarious positions – it’s an ancient structure.
• Be a litter bug!
• Forget tissue if you’d like to use the toilet.
• Run or walk too fast; seriously – there is loose rock everywhere.
• Don’t climb on the windows of watchtowers, especially unrestored ones that might collapse.

We hope this answers some starter questions you have about visiting the Great Wall.

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