Mutianyu Great Wall is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China. Located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) northeast of downtown Beijing, it is famous for its lush forests, rolling mountains, and wide stone steps. Unlike the busier Badaling, Mutianyu offers a quieter, more scenic experience, making it a favorite for international visitors. If you’re planning your trip, here are the most practical ways to get there from Beijing.
🚄 Option 1: Private Transfer or Taxi
The easiest way to reach Mutianyu is by private car or taxi. From central Beijing, the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. A one-way trip usually costs around $40–60 USD, but the price can be shared if you’re traveling with friends or family.
This option gives you flexibility—you can leave early in the morning to beat the crowds, stop for lunch along the way, or continue your journey to nearby attractions like the Ming Tombs.
🚌 Option 2: Tourist Buses
Tourist buses depart daily from central Beijing to Mutianyu. One of the most convenient services is the Mutianyu Shuttle Bus (Mu Bus), which runs from Dongzhimen, a major transport hub in Beijing. The ride takes about 2 hours and costs around $6–7 USD one way.
This service is especially useful for independent travelers who don’t want to deal with multiple transfers but also prefer not to spend on a private car.
🚍 Option 3: Public Transport
It’s possible to reach Mutianyu by public transport, though it takes longer. First, take Bus 916 Express from Dongzhimen Bus Station to Huairou (about 1 hour, $2 USD). From Huairou, transfer to a local minibus or taxi to the Mutianyu entrance (30–40 minutes, $5–10 USD).
This is the cheapest option overall, but it can be confusing if you don’t speak Chinese. For budget travelers with some extra time, it’s still a good adventure.
🚡 At the Wall: Cable Car and Chairlift
Once you arrive at Mutianyu, you can either hike up the stone steps or take a cable car or chairlift to the top. The cable car costs around $20 USD round trip and saves time and energy, leaving you more strength to explore the towers and ridge lines. For a fun way down, many visitors try the toboggan slide, which winds through the hillside back to the entrance.
🌿 Why Choose Mutianyu?
Mutianyu is about 2.5 kilometers of restored wall with 23 watchtowers, surrounded by over 90% forest coverage. The scenery changes with the seasons—lush green in summer, golden leaves in autumn, and snow-capped ridges in winter. With fewer crowds than Badaling, it’s a section where you can truly enjoy the beauty of the Great Wall at your own pace.
✨ Whether you choose a private car for comfort, a tourist bus for convenience, or public transport for the budget experience, getting to Mutianyu from Beijing is straightforward. Bring good walking shoes, plenty of water, and a camera—you’ll want to capture the views that stretch for miles over the mountains.
Comparison Table: How to Get to Mutianyu Great Wall
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Car / Taxi | 1.5–2 hours | $40–60 (one way) | Families, groups, flexible itineraries |
| Tourist Bus (Mu Bus) | ~2 hours | $6–7 one way | Independent travelers, easy connection |
| Public Transport | 2–2.5 hours | $7–12 total | Budget travelers, adventurous visitors |
✨ No matter which way you choose, Mutianyu combines accessibility with stunning scenery. Bring comfortable shoes, water, and your camera—the views will stay with you long after your trip.