Badaling Great Wall

Walking the Great Wall of China: Ticket Prices for Exploring a Wonder

"One who fails to reach the Great Wall is not a true hero" goes the famous saying. A powerful symbol of China, the Great Wall draws visitors from every corner of the globe. But for first-time explorers, a common question arises: how much does it cost to visit this iconic landmark?

First, it's important to understand that the Great Wall is not a single, continuous structure. You can't simply hop on at one point and trek across the entire country. Centuries of construction and destruction have left behind a series of impressive sections, each with its own character.

If you're based in Beijing, some of the most popular sections include:

1. Badaling Great Wall:

  • The most well-preserved and visited section, Badaling is many travelers' first choice.
  • Ticket prices:
    • Low season (November 1st to March 31st): 40 RMB per person
    • Peak season (April 1st to October 31st): 45 RMB per person
  • Cable car: 100 RMB one-way, 170 RMB round-trip
  • Additional costs:
    • Badaling Great Wall Museum: 30 RMB per person
    • Great Wall Panorama Experience Hall: 40 RMB per person

2. Simatai Great Wall:

  • Known for its rugged beauty and challenging hikes, Simatai is ideal for adventurous visitors.
  • Ticket price: 40 RMB per person
  • Cable car: 90 RMB one-way, 160 RMB round-trip
  • Additional costs:
    • Shuttle bus within the scenic area: 10 RMB per person one-way

3. Juyongguan Great Wall:

  • Famous for its imposing fortress and strategic location, Juyongguan is also one of the most accessible sections.
  • Ticket prices:
    • Low season (November 1st to March 31st): 30 RMB per person
    • Peak season (April 1st to October 31st): 40 RMB per person
  • Cable car: 80 RMB one-way, 140 RMB round-trip

4. Mutianyu Great Wall:

  • Boasting scenic beauty and moderate hiking trails, Mutianyu is suitable for visitors of all ages.
  • Ticket price: 45 RMB per person
  • Cable car: 100 RMB one-way, 170 RMB round-trip
  • Additional costs:
    • Toboggan/Shuttle bus within the scenic area: 30 RMB per person one-way, 45 RMB round-trip

Important Note: Prices are subject to change. It's always best to check with the official websites or ticket offices for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, many sections offer discounts for students, seniors, and other groups.

Beyond these well-known sections, the Beijing area boasts other fascinating stretches like the Jinshanling Great Wall and the Huanghuacheng Great Wall, each with its own unique charm.

Exploring the Great Wall might not break the bank, but it offers a priceless opportunity to connect with Chinese culture and history. Hopefully, this guide helps you plan your own unforgettable journey to this wonder of the world.

Q&A:

Q: What is the most popular section of the Great Wall to visit from Beijing? A: The Badaling Great Wall is the most popular and well-preserved section, making it a top choice for visitors.

Q: Are there discounts available for Great Wall tickets? A: Yes, many sections offer discounted tickets for students, seniors, and other specific groups. Check with the ticket office or official website for details.

Q: Is it possible to hike the entire length of the Great Wall? A: No, the Great Wall is not a single continuous structure. It consists of various sections built over different periods. You can hike specific sections, but it's impossible to hike its entire length.