The Great Wall of China has many famous sections, but for most visitors staying in Beijing, the choice often comes down to Badaling and Mutianyu. Both are well-preserved, easily accessible, and historically significant, yet they offer very different travel experiences. If you are planning your trip, here’s a clear comparison to help you decide which section of the Great Wall suits you best.
📍 Location and Accessibility
- Badaling: Located about 70 km northwest of Beijing, Badaling is the closest section and the first to open to the public. It can be reached in just 1–1.5 hours by car, train, or direct bus, making it extremely convenient.
- Mutianyu: Situated 70 km northeast of Beijing in Huairou District, Mutianyu takes about 1.5–2 hours by car. Shuttle buses also connect from Dongzhimen, but it’s a slightly longer journey compared to Badaling.
👥 Crowds and Atmosphere
- Badaling: This is the most famous and visited section of the Great Wall. While it is impressive in scale, it is often extremely crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. Expect lots of tour groups, vendors, and a lively atmosphere.
- Mutianyu: Much less crowded, Mutianyu is preferred by international visitors who want a quieter experience. Its peaceful setting makes it ideal for those looking to avoid the hustle of tourist groups.
🌄 Scenery and Landscape
- Badaling: Known for its majesty, Badaling features wide walls and strong fortifications winding across steep mountains. It offers a commanding view but feels more commercialized.
- Mutianyu: Famous for its natural beauty, Mutianyu is surrounded by dense forests covering over 90% of the area. With 23 watchtowers along its 2.5 km stretch, it provides one of the most scenic walks on the Great Wall.
🏗️ Facilities and Experience
- Badaling: Well-developed with hotels, restaurants, cable cars, and even a museum. It’s easy to navigate for families and elderly visitors.
- Mutianyu: Also offers cable cars, chairlifts, and a fun toboggan ride down the hill. The facilities are modern, but the atmosphere remains more authentic and less commercial than Badaling.
✅ Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Badaling if you want the most famous, iconic experience and don’t mind large crowds. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time.
- Choose Mutianyu if you prefer a quieter, more scenic walk with fewer people around. It’s perfect for families, photographers, and those seeking a relaxed visit.
Quick Comparison: Badaling vs Mutianyu
| Feature | Badaling | Mutianyu |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Beijing | ~70 km (northwest) | ~70 km (northeast) |
| Travel Time | 1–1.5 hours | 1.5–2 hours |
| Atmosphere | Very crowded, commercial | Quieter, more natural |
| Scenery | Majestic, strong fortifications | Scenic, lush forested mountains |
| Facilities | Cable car, museum, restaurants | Cable car, chairlift, toboggan |
| Best For | First-time visitors, big groups | Families, photographers, peaceful travelers |
✨ Whether you choose Badaling or Mutianyu, both sections showcase the grandeur of the Great Wall. For many travelers, Mutianyu offers a more relaxed and scenic day trip, while Badaling provides the classic, iconic image of this world wonder.