Absolute Asia/China/The Great Wall: Across the Mountains Beyond Beijing
The Great Wall: Across the Mountains Beyond Beijing
Explore the Great Wall near Beijing, where ancient watchtowers rise across mountain ridgelines beyond forests, mist and northern valleys.
Quick Overview: Explore the Great Wall near Beijing, where ancient watchtowers rise across mountain ridgelines beyond forests, mist and northern valleys.
The Badaling section of the Great Wall, in Yanqing district northwest of Beijing, was the first section opened to visitors and is among the best-preserved Ming walls. It was built from 1504 to 1505 below a peak of 1,015 meters. Other sections near Beijing are quieter, and your choice depends on crowds and walking.
| Badaling peak | 1,015 m, near Juyong Pass |
|---|---|
| Built | 1504 to 1505, in the Ming dynasty |
| Walkable length | 3,741 m |
| Height and width | average about 7 m high, up to 14 m; base about 6.5 m; top over 5 m wide |
| Gates | east gate dated 1539; west gate dated 1582 |
| Getting up | a cable car and a 700 m ground cable line run from near the Zhan Tianyou museum |
About Badaling
Badaling is the best-known and one of the earliest opened sections. The wall is narrower on the east and wider on the west, with an east and a west gate, and battlements on top. Its surface is paved with square bricks, with an inner parapet and an outer wall that has loopholes below the crenellations. The top is wide enough for five horses abreast or ten people. Chinese Wikipedia notes the walkable part is 3,741 meters long.
Other sections
Jinshanling and Mutianyu are other well-known sections within reach of Beijing, and are often chosen for more walking or smaller crowds. We have not verified their lengths or opening rules here, so confirm current access before you go.
Planning your visit
Go early or on a weekday, since Badaling draws large crowds, and bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes because the steps are steep. A private guide can pick the section that suits your fitness and the season. Combine it with the Ming tombs or a late-day return to Beijing.
Visiting with Absolute Asia Tours
Absolute Asia Tours has planned private trips in Asia since 1989. We arrange guides, transfers and timing for this stop as part of a longer China itinerary. We’re rated 4.8 out of 5 across about 900 traveler reviews. See our China tours or tell us your dates.
Sources (read in Chinese, Chinese Wikipedia): 八达岭长城. Last checked November 2026.
Great Wall near Beijing: FAQ
When was the Badaling Great Wall built?
From 1504 to 1505, in the Ming dynasty.
How long is the walkable section at Badaling?
3,741 meters.
How wide is the wall at the top?
Over five meters, wide enough for several people abreast.
Are there other sections near Beijing?
Yes, including Jinshanling and Mutianyu. Check current access before you go.
How high is the Badaling peak?
1,015 meters.
We have not verified their lengths or opening rules here, so confirm current access before you go.
Further Reading
Journeys That Go There
