Mutianyu Great Wall

Historical Overview

Construction of Mutianyu began during the Northern Qi Dynasty (550–577 CE) and was reinforced under the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). Key developments include:

• 1509: Emperor Hongzhi ordered a major renovation, adding crenellated walls and arrow loops.
• 16th Century: The "Outer Branch" was built to fortify the area against Mongol invasions.
• 1980s: Restoration efforts repaired 3,000 meters of the wall, preserving its original granite and brick structure.
• 2011: A glass-bottomed observation deck opened at Tower 14, blending history with modernity.

Notable events include its role as a critical stronghold during the 1550 Mongol raids and its 1988 designation as a national park.

Structural Layout

Mutianyu’s layout combines natural terrain with military precision:

Watchtowers: 22 towers (numbered 1–23, missing Tower 13) spaced 100–300 meters apart, each with unique features like double eaves (Tower 6) or a circular design (Tower 14).

Defensive Systems: Barbed wire grooves, embrasures for archers, and a steep "Ox Horn Edge" section (70–80-degree incline).

Support Structures: A barracks ruin near Tower 1, a 1.5-kilometer "Outer Branch" wall, and the Zhengguan Terrace—a strategic overlook.

Key sections include the Zhengguan Terrace (Tower 3) and Eagle Flies Facing Upward (Tower 14), the steepest part.

Major Attractions

Zhengguan Terrace (Tower 3): A two-story pavilion offering 360-degree mountain views.

Big Corner Tower (Tower 1): The easternmost tower with a rare "L"-shaped design.

Zhengguan Platform: A 1,000-step climb to the highest point (1,034 meters), rewarding hikers with cloud-level vistas.

Mutianyu Cable Car: Asia’s first passenger cable car, launched in 1985, providing a 5-minute ascent.

Toboggan Slide: A 1.5-kilometer aluminum track descending from Tower 6, reaching speeds of 30 km/h.

Great Wall Museum: Located at the entrance, showcasing artifacts like Ming Dynasty cannons and arrowheads.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (2–3 hours):

Take the cable car to Tower 14 → Hike west to Tower 6 → Descend via the toboggan.

Highlights: Steep climbs, toboggan thrill, and panoramic mountain views.

Historic Route (4–5 hours):

Start at Tower 1 → Trek east to Tower 23 → Return via the "Outer Branch" wall.

Highlights: Remote towers, barracks ruins, and unspoiled wilderness.

Family-Friendly Route (3 hours):

Cable car to Tower 14 → Walk to Tower 6 → Toboggan descent.

Highlights: Accessible for all ages, with minimal stair climbing.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the official Mutianyu website or platforms like Ctrip (up to 7 days in advance).

On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance, but queues peak during holidays.

• Prices:

Entrance: ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).

Cable Car (one-way): ¥100, Round-trip: ¥120.

Toboggan: ¥80 (one-way).

Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

By Bus:Take Bus 916 (fast) from Dongzhimen Station to Huairou, then transfer to H23/H24/H35 to Mutianyu.

By Tour Group: Day trips from Beijing include round-trip transport and tickets (¥200–300).

By Taxi: Direct ride from downtown (¥250–300 one-way; negotiate return fare).

Departure: Buses leave every 30 minutes until 4 PM; taxis are available at the exit.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM; arrive early (8 AM opening) or late (after 3 PM).

Crowds: Weekdays are quieter; weekends and holidays attract large groups.

Weather: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures.

• Essentials:

Wear sturdy shoes (uneven steps, steep slopes).

Carry water and snacks (limited vendors on-site).

Photography: Best during sunrise/sunset; drones prohibited.

Prohibited: Smoking, littering, and climbing unrestored sections.