Looking for a clear and step-by-step guide on how to visit Mutianyu? You’re in the right place.
If you’re in Beijing and thinking of visiting the Great Wall of China, stop scrolling. I’ve got the answers you’re probably Googling right now: Which section should I visit? How do I get there? And what’s the best way to see it without feeling overwhelmed?
While Badaling is the most famous section, it’s also the most crowded. That’s why I recommend heading to the Mutianyu Great Wall from Beijing instead. It’s a bit further out (about 70 km northeast of the city), but way less touristy and way more enjoyable.
I went up by cable car, took in the views, then flew down the toboggan. And honestly? I had the best time.
The Great Wall is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, stretches over 21000 km, and dates back to the 7th century BC. The Mutianyu section alone features 22 watchtowers across its restored stretch.
In this post, you’ll learn exactly how to get to Mutianyu, how to visit it, what ticket options are worth your money, and what to expect on the day. I’ll also share a sample Mutianyu Great Wall itinerary and insider tips based on my own experience.
In a hurry? Plan your visit to Mutianyu Great Wall now!
⌛ How long to spend in Mutianyu: Half a day (3h at the top, at least)
🚆How to get to Mutianyu – Didi is one of the best options to get there. Expect to pay 200 RMB (~25€) one way.
🎟️ Price: Entry to the wall + shuttle bus start at 45 RMB (~5€). Combo options with a cable car or a toboggan start around 200 RMB (~25€).
💸 How to pay in China – It’s a cashless society. You’ll need Alipay or WeChat Pay to make purchases — literally everywhere. Use Revolut to pay in yuan and avoid foreign transaction fees.
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Why visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall?
There are several different sections of the Great Wall of China you can visit, and each one offers a totally different experience. Some are super touristy. Others are wild and unrestored.
I only visited the Great Wall of Mutianyu, so that’s the one I’ll be focusing on here.
But if you’re still deciding which section is best for your trip, I highly recommend reading this detailed guide on which section of the Great Wall to choose. It breaks down all the major sections and helps you figure out which one fits your travel style best.
What makes Mutianyu special?
Mutianyu hits a sweet spot that’s hard to beat.
- It’s been restored, but still feels authentic. So, you’ll get a mix of history and walkability
- It’s way less crowded than Badaling, but a lot easier than the steep and wild Jiankou
- You can ride a cable car or chairlift up… and then slide down the Great Wall of China on a toboggan (yes, really)
- The scenery is stunning. Think rolling hills, mountain views, and lush greenery, especially in spring and summer
If you’re looking for something fun, scenic, and not overly intense, Mutianyu is the one to visit.
Badaling vs Mutianyu: Which Is Better?
When people start planning how to visit the Great Wall of China when visiting Beijing, it usually comes down to one question: Badaling or Mutianyu?
Here’s a quick side-by-side to help:
| Feature | Badaling | Mutianyu |
|---|---|---|
| Crowds | Extremely busy, especially on weekends | Independent travelers, couples, and outdoor lovers |
| Access | Easiest by train or tour | Slightly trickier, but still simple |
| Vibe | Heavily restored, very touristy | Restored but more scenic |
| Fun factor | Basic walk | Mutianyu toboggan and cable car rides |
| Best for | Big tour groups, families with kids | Independent travelers, couples, and outdoor lovers |
How to get from Beijing to Mutianyu Great Wall
Getting from Beijing to the Mutianyu Great Wall is easier than it looks. However, the best option depends on your time, budget, and travel style.
1. Easiest Option: Go with a Didi
Taking a Didi (China’s version of Uber) is the most comfortable option, especially if you’re not keen on figuring out buses or trains.
Expect to pay around 200 RMB (~25€) one way. It’s not the cheapest, but if you’re traveling with others, it can actually be cost-effective.
The ride takes at least 1 hour and 30 minutes. But fair warning: Beijing traffic can be brutal. On our way back, it took us more than 2.5 hours to reach our hotel.
We prebooked our Didi the night before and left early in the morning. For the return trip, we had no trouble calling a new ride right from the Mutianyu Great Wall entrance.
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2. Take the MuBus (Direct Tourist Shuttle)
If you’re traveling solo or on a budget, the MuBus is a solid option.
- It’s direct, easy to use, and has English-speaking staff
- Leaves from the east side of the Hong Kong and Macao Center
- Includes return transport + admission tickets (depending on the package)
This is a great pick if you want a no-fuss day trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall and prefer not to deal with local public transport. There are other shuttle bus options available.
🎫 Book your bus tour from Beijing to Mutianyu (prices start at 20€).
3. Take the Public Bus (Bus 916 + H23)
If you’re on a tight budget, the public bus combo is the cheapest way (~2€) to get from Beijing to Mutianyu Great Wall. But keep in mind that it takes longer and requires a transfer.
Here’s how to do it:
- Go to the Dongzhimen Bus Hub (东直门公交枢纽) in Beijing. You can get there by subway, just follow the signs once you’re at Dongzhimen Station.
- Take Bus 916 Express (916快车) to Huairou Beidajie (怀柔北大街). The ride takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- From there, transfer to Bus H7, H23, H24, H35, or H36 heading toward Mutianyu Roundabout (慕田峪环岛).
- Once you get off, it’s a short walk (or quick shuttle) to the entrance.
Important tip: Only take the 916快车 (express)—not the regular 916, or you’ll be stopping at every single village along the way.
4. Train + Didi Combo
You can also mix train and Didi for another option.
Here’s how it works:
- Take a train from Beijing North (Beijing Bei) or Qinghe Station to Huairou North (Huairou Bei). Tickets cost around 1.2€ and the trip takes about 1 to 1.2 hours
- From Huairou North, grab a Didi for the final 30–40 minutes to Mutianyu
This isn’t the fastest or most convenient route, but it’s a nice option if you’re trying to save money but still want a convenient option.
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How to visit Mutianyu: my recommendation
So, you’ve figured out how to get to the Great Wall of China from Beijing. Now comes the fun part: how to actually explore the Mutianyu section once you’re there.
There are a few different ways to see this part of the wall, but below I’ll walk you through exactly what I did in my 3-hour visit.
It’s one of the most fun sections to visit. Not just because of the views, but because you can choose to take a chairlift, cable car, or even a toboggan to get down.
Step-by-Step Mutianyu Great Wall Itinerary
1. Arrive at the base of the Mutianyu section
If you haven’t bought your tickets yet, head to the main ticket office. Just know this: the toboggan tickets are sold separately, since they’re run by a different operator. You’ll have to buy those either at the chairlift booth or up top near the toboggan entrance.
All the other tickets can be purchased here.
2. Walk about 5 minutes to the shuttle bus station
It’s an easy walk, and when we went early, there were barely any people around and no lines for the bus.
3. Hop on the shuttle bus
The ride is short (around 5 minutes) and drops you off near the cable car and chairlift entrances.
4. Walk uphill to the cable car entrance
This part takes about 7 minutes. You’ll pass by the Mutianyu chairlift entrance on the way, but keep going if you’re planning to ride the cable car like we did.
From buying tickets to boarding the cable car, it took us around 30 minutes total, but we arrived early and didn’t hit any queues.
5. Ride the cable car up
The Mutianyu cable car only takes about 5 minutes and drops you off at Tower 14. The views on the way up are gorgeous.
6. Explore the Great Wall from Tower 14
This part depends on how much time you have and how you plan to come back down. If you’re taking the cable car down, you’ll need to return to Tower 14. That’s one reason I recommend mixing things up and using a different method to descend.
From Tower 14, we headed toward Tower 20, but only made it to Tower 19. We started running out of time, and the later it got, the more crowded it became. For reference, the walkable section at Mutianyu is about 6 km long.
On the way back, we retraced our steps to Tower 14, then continued toward Tower 6. The part between Tower 14 and Tower 6 had fewer photo stops for us since we’d already taken tons earlier.
The stretch between Tower 14 and Tower 6 was also noticeably less crowded. I think that’s because walking it in the opposite direction (from Tower 6 to 14) is mostly uphill, which probably discourages people.
7. Line up for the toboggan ride
Time to queue for the toboggan—the most fun part of the whole visit. We waited around 25 to 30 minutes in line and bought our Mutianyu toboggan tickets on the spot.
8. Ride the toboggan down
Okay, confession time. I was the one who suggested doing the toboggan ride, but when it was actually time to go, I got kind of nervous. It’s not exactly my kind of thing.
But once I got the hang of it?
It was actually really fun. The ride lasts about 5 minutes and covers roughly 1.5 km. And it doesn’t go even that fast.
💡 EXTRA TIP: If you follow this route, you can also choose to ride the chairlift down instead of taking the toboggan since the upper chairlift station is located between towers 5 and 6.
9. Walk back to the shuttle bus
After the toboggan, you’ll need to walk a bit to catch the shuttle bus that takes you back to the main entrance.
Other possible Mutianyu Itineraries
Of course, you can also explore the Great Wall in different ways. Here are some ideas:
| Route | Description | Difficulty | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route 1 | Cable car up to Tower 14, hike eastward to Tower 20, then return to Tower 14 and descend via cable car. | Moderate | 2-3h |
| Route 2 | Chairlift up to Tower 6, hike westward to Tower 14, then return to Tower 6 and descend via toboggan. | Moderate | 2-3h |
| Route 3 | Hike up to Tower 6, then proceed westward to Tower 14 and return to Tower 6 for descent via toboggan. | Challenging | 3-4h |
Here’s a map I found online that was super helpful in planning my visit. It reflects the exact route I took.
This other map is also great for understanding the layout of the area around the Mutianyu section.
Tickets to visit Mutianyu: what to know before you go
Buying tickets for the Great Wall at Mutianyu can be a bit confusing, especially with all the optional add-ons. So here’s everything you need to know, based on my own experience.
Types of Tickets (and what you actually need)
You can’t just rock up to the entrance and start climbing the Wall. There are different tickets, and you’ll need to buy at least two:
- Entrance ticket to the Wall – This gets you access to the Mutianyu section itself
- Shuttle bus ticket – Required to travel between the main entrance and the base of the Wall (unless you really feel like hiking uphill for 30–40 minutes before you even start the climb. I don’t recommend it.)
Optional extras:
- Cable car – Goes to Tower 14 (best if you want great views with minimal stairs)
- Chairlift – Takes you up to Tower 6
- Toboggan ride – Super fun way to slide down from Tower 6
I suggest doing some mix and match. For instance, I took the cable car up and the toboggan down, which was super fun!
Mutianyu Great Wall Ticket Price
Here’s a quick look at the standard prices:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Wall Entry | 45 RMB (~6€) |
| Shuttle Bus (round trip) | 15 RMB (~1.8€) |
| Cable car (round trip) | 140 RMB (~17€) |
| Chairlift + Toboggan | 140 RMB (~17€) |
| Single rides (cable car, chairlift or toboggan) | ~100 RMB (~12€) |
You’ll need to spend at least 45 RMB (~6€) to visit Mutianyu—that’s the base ticket. But I highly recommend taking either the cable car or chairlift up so you can save your energy for exploring the Wall itself.
Now, if you go with the round-trip cable car, you’re looking at around 45 + 15 + 140 = 200 RMB (~25€). However, this isn’t the option I recommend in this post.
I took the cable car up and the toboggan down, and honestly? Totally worth the extra cost. You’ll need to buy separate tickets for both since they’re run by different operators, but the toboggan ride was such a fun way to end my visit.
Where to buy tickets for Mutianyu Great Wall
Unlike most places I visited in China, I didn’t buy my Great Wall tickets in advance. I just got them on-site and it worked out fine. However, people recommend buying them in advance, especially if you want to visit during Chinese National Holidays.
Here are your options:
- On-site – You can buy at the ticket office near the main gate. But lines can be long on weekends and holidays.
- Online (Official site) – Not always foreigner-friendly.
- Trip.com – Best choice for non-Chinese tourists if you don’t want to buy on-site. Buy your tickets to Mutianyu now.
💡 EXTRA TIP: You won’t find toboggan tickets at the main entrance. They’re handled by a separate operator. You can buy them at the booth near the chairlift or directly at the top, right by the toboggan entrance.
Where to stay to visit Mutianyu
I visited the Great Wall on a day trip from Beijing, which worked out great. I stayed at Sunworld Hotel Wangfujing, right in the city center. It was a bit outdated, but honestly? For the price and location, it was a solid value.
That said, if you want to stay closer to the wall and avoid the early-morning travel, there are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels near Mutianyu worth checking out.
Here are a few options to consider:
How long to spend at Mutianyu
If you’re wondering how long to plan for your visit to Mutianyu Great Wall, I’d say a minimum of 3 to 4 hours just on top of the wall. I spent about 3 hours just on the wall itself and that didn’t include transport time from Beijing or the shuttle, cable car, and toboggan.
Ideally, treat it as a half-day trip from Beijing. But be realistic: traffic in and out of the city can be rough, especially if you’re going by car or bus.
Also, depending on when you visit, you might have to wait in line for the shuttle, cable car, or Mutianyu toboggan, which can add a good 30+ minutes to your day.
Plus, parts of the wall are steep. If you’re not used to stairs, you’ll want to factor in time for breaks. It’s totally doable, but take it at your own pace.
Best time to visit Mutianyu Great Wall
The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall opens at 7.30 am during peak season (March 16th to November 15th) and 8 am during off-peak season. So, if you want the best experience, go early.
I arrived around 9.30 am, and by 11 am, the place was packed. The difference in crowd levels in just 90 minutes was wild.
If I had to do it again? I’d aim to be there right when it opens. The early wake-up is 100% worth it.
Try to avoid public holidays and weekends. I went on a Saturday in May, and while it wasn’t terrible, I imagine weekdays are much calmer.
For photos, morning light in spring and autumn is just perfect. You’ll get soft shadows, fewer people in your shots, and cooler temps for climbing.
In terms of when to go, Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are the best times to go. You’ll find mild weather, clear skies, and beautiful colors.
What to pack for a visit to Mutianyu
You don’t need much for a visit to the Great Wall of Mutianyu, but packing smart can make your day way more comfortable.
Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- Comfortable walking shoes – You’ll be climbing steep stairs and walking uneven paths for hours. Trust me: this is not the place for cute flats or sandals.
- Sunscreen and a hat – There’s barely any shade up there, and the sun can get intense, even on cooler days.
- A light jacket – If you’re visiting in spring or autumn, the temps can be chilly in the morning and warm by midday. Layers are your best friend.
- Your passport – You’ll need it to buy tickets, especially if you’re getting them on-site.
- Snacks (optional) – Food options are super limited once you’re on top. There are a few vendors, but don’t count on a full meal. I was glad I had something small to eat in my bag.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mutianyu
» Is the Mutianyu toboggan ride safe?
Yes, the Mutianyu toboggan ride is generally safe. It’s well-maintained and used daily by tourists of all ages.
You control your speed using a hand brake, so it’s not a thrill ride unless you make it one. Just follow the safety rules and don’t tailgate other riders.
Staff are positioned along the track to monitor speed and distance.
» Is the Mutianyu section hard to climb?
Parts of it can be steep, especially between towers. But thanks to cable cars and chairlifts, you can avoid the toughest ascents.
If you’re reasonably fit, you’ll be fine. Just wear proper shoes and take breaks when needed. It’s way more doable than some of the wild sections like Jiankou.
» Do I need a tour guide to visit Mutianyu?
Not at all. Mutianyu is one of the easiest sections to explore on your own. Signs are clear, paths are well-maintained, and the whole area is very visitor-friendly.
If you want historical context or transport sorted for you, then a guide could help. Otherwise, it’s totally manageable solo.
» Do I need to buy a ticket to Mutianyu in advance?
No, you don’t need to book ahead. I bought all my tickets on the day of my visit, including the cable car and shuttle bus.
That said, if you’re going during a weekend or public holiday, advance booking can save you time and guarantee your spot, especially for round-trip transport like MuBus.
» How far is Mutianyu from Beijing?
Mutianyu is about 70 km (43 miles) northeast of central Beijing.
Travel time can vary a lot. Expect around 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bus, and up to 2.5 hours if traffic is bad. Leave early to make the most of your day.
» Can you buy food at Mutianyu?
Yes, but options are limited once you’re on the wall.
There are a few snack vendors near the upper entrances and exits, but no full restaurants up top.
It’s a good idea to bring snacks or eat at the small eateries near the ticket entrance before or after your visit.
» How far is the Great Wall from Beijing?
It depends on the section of the Great Wall. Mutianyu is around 70 km away, while Badaling is closer at 60 km.
But don’t just pick based on distance. Mutianyu is often faster to visit because it has fewer crowds and more efficient access routes.
Final thoughts on visiting Mutianyu
If you’ve made it this far, you now know exactly how to visit Mutianyu: from getting there and picking the right tickets, to riding the cable car and sliding down the toboggan.
For me, Mutianyu was the perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and accessibility.
Whether you’re going up for the views or the bragging rights, this section of the wall delivers a solid experience without the overwhelming crowds.
If you’re planning your own Mutianyu Great Wall itinerary, I hope this guide helped you feel a bit more prepared and excited.
Are you thinking of visiting Mutianyu? Or have you already been? Drop your thoughts, questions, or your own tips in the comments below.
Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
Thanks for all the great detailed information and tips. My family is travelling in December to China. I’m anxious about my elderly father who has some limited walking abilities. Any you able to help with any information or tips on the easiest route for him will be greatly appreciated. I plan on going cable car up and down. Thank you!
Hi Pauline,
Thanks for the feedback! I understand your concern and I think using the cable car up and down is the best possible way to do it.
I remind you there are several steps at the Great Wall but you can walk just a small portion of it next to the cable car exit. I am sure you’ll still have a great time 🙂
Happy travels,
Mariana
Thanks Mariana!
Just wondering with the cable car ride up and then he continues to do a little walking to explore. Can he come back to the same cable car entrance as his exit point to go down the mountain? Thank you so much! ☺️
I went with the cable car and down on the tobogan. But I am pretty sure the entrance for the cable car down is near the exit when you get to the top. And there’s actually places where he could sit and rest for a bit near the wall at the top while you explore it a bit more, if you want