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Top 8 Things to Do on the Mutianyu Great Wall

As one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall of China, Mutianyu should be added to your bucket list for its well preserved walls, dense watchtowers and charming scenery around. Compared with other sections, it is also close to downtown Beijing and can be approached easily. On the 5,400 meters (5,900 yards) long majestic structure, you can try more things besides ordinary hiking. Here are the 8 things you should not miss on the Mutianyu Great Wall of China, offering a more interesting Great Wall travel experience.

1. Conquer the Hero Slope

As the saying goes, “He who does not reach the Great Wall is not a true hero.” Conquering the Hero Slope has become the ultimate goal for many people who visit the Mutianyu Great Wall. The slope has about 450 steps with an incline of 80 degrees, and climbers need to use both hands and feet to conquer it. After successfully reaching the top at an elevation of 1,039 meters (3,409 feet), with the winding Great Wall stretching out below, climbers can experience the sense of being a “hero” with a sense of grandeur.

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2. Visit the Unique Zhengguan Terrace (No. 4 Watchtower)

Zhengguan Terrace

The Zhengguan Terrace, a remarkable landmark of the Mutianyu Great Wall and a distinctive architectural manifestation within the Great Wall of China, is composed of three watchtowers arranged in alignment, each possessing two stories. The upper floor served as a command hub and a haven for rest among generals and soldiers, whereas the lower floor was dedicated to the storage of provisions and weaponry. Tourists can thus closely observe the grandeur of ancient defensive edifices and gain an immersive understanding of the soldiers' way of life in those bygone days.

3. Enjoy Bird's Eye View of the Wall from a Cable Car

Mutianyu Great Wall

Embarking on a cable car journey at the Mutianyu Great Wall unfolds an experience that etches itself indelibly in memory. As the cable car ascends, passengers are treated to a gradually unfolding bird's-eye view of the Great Wall. The ancient structure snakes its way across the mountains, its every curve and turn clearly visible. The lush vegetation below and the clear blue sky above create a perfect backdrop, making it a visual feast that leaves a lasting impression.

4. Overlook the Great Wall on No. 20 Watchtower

Mutianyu Great Wall

No. 20 Watchtower is the highest point of the Mutianyu Great Wall open to the public, also the final destination of most visitors. From this elevated perch, one can gaze out over a vast expanse of the Great Wall. The watchtower itself, with its weathered bricks and strategic position, tells stories of centuries past. The view extends for miles, with the Great Wall stretching into the distance like an unbroken ribbon, a testament to human perseverance and engineering marvel.

5. Enjoy Autumn Scenery

Mutianyu in Autumn

The vegetation coverage rate around the Mutianyu Great Wall is 96%, and from mid-October to mid-November each year, the Mutianyu Great Wall enters its “Maple Leaf Season” when various plant leaves turn red, yellow, and create a colorful and vibrant scene of autumn foliage, making it the most beautiful time of the year at the Mutianyu Great Wall.

6. Mark Your Name on the Graffiti Wall

Within No. 14 Watchtower of the Mutianyu Great Wall, three walls draped in white cloth for graffiti present a singular means for visitors to etch their presence. Here, people can write their names, leave brief messages, or draw simple pictures. It affords an occasion to integrate into the vibrant, living history of the Great Wall and forge a personal bond with this iconic landmark.

7. Slide down from the Great Wall by Toboggan

Toboggan, Mutianyu Great Wall

For those seeking an exciting end to their Great Wall adventure, the toboggan ride is a perfect choice. After exploring the ancient ramparts, visitors can ride a toboggan and zoom down the slideway adjacent to the Wall. The wind in their hair and the thrill of the descent add a modern touch of excitement to the historical experience. It's a fun and exhilarating way to bid farewell to the Mutianyu Great Wall.

8. Night Tour of the Mutianyu Great Wall

During the summer holidays (July and August), the National Day Holiday (October 1-7), and the May Day Holiday (May 1-5), the area from No. 10 to No. 15 Watchtower will be open for nighttime visits. This special experience is open from 17:30 to 21:00. Visitors can experience a completely different view of the Great Wall from the daytime. At night, the Great Wall is illuminated, making it even more mysterious and majestic.

See more: How to Travel from Beijing to Mutianyu Great Wall

- Last updated on Dec. 18, 2024 by Sherry Xia -

Questions & Answers on Top 8 Things to Do on the Mutianyu Great Wall

Asked by Alejandra from SPAIN | Nov. 09, 2024 01:49

Cable car-toboggan question, prices and queue

Can I go the way up in cable car and the way down in toboggan? How can I get the tickets for that? The official website only permits one-way/round-trip in cable car or chair car(with toboggan) but I can't find the option of cable car and toboggan. For the end of November, is better (regarding prices and queues) to buy the tickets online or in the ticket place? Many thanks in advance !!

Answers (2)

Answered by Rita | Nov. 11, 2024 00:30

Yes, you can. You can buy the ticket for cable car and toboggan separately. You can buy the ticket on the site in November as it's the off season.

Answered by Alejandra | Nov. 11, 2024 22:31

Thank you !

Asked by Miriam from UNITED KINGDOM | Oct. 05, 2024 22:57

Playgrounds or outdoor space for children

Are there any open air playgrounds for kids in Beijing? Playgrounds in parks?
I don't want to visit a big amusement park, just somewhere for kids to have a small break from sightseeing and play :)
Thank you.

Answers (1)

Answered by Keith | Oct. 09, 2024 01:49

There are many parks with playgrounds like Madian Park, Guanzhuang Park, Liangmahe Park, Binhe Park in Xicheng District ...

Asked by Miriam from UNITED KINGDOM | Oct. 05, 2024 22:54

What temperature is expected at the end of October, please ?

What's the weather like at the very end of October? Temperature and is it windy?

Answers (1)

Answered by Marcy | Oct. 09, 2024 01:46

The temperature is 0-10℃.
There are windy days then, but not too many yet.

Asked by CS from SG | Oct. 04, 2024 18:29

Does Toboggan safe in Winter, I.e. December? ?

Answers (1)

Answered by Daniel | Oct. 09, 2024 01:43

Yes, it's safe. If there is a security risk like in snowy days, it will be stopped.

Asked by steven from UNITED STATES | Sep. 16, 2024 11:06

Great wall is it opens in the end November? what is temperature at that time?Price for our in 2024?

Answers (1)

Answered by Marcy | Sep. 18, 2024 18:47

Yes, it opens. The temperature is -3 - 10℃ and the admission ticket is CNY 40.