Badaling Great Wall: Complete Visitor's Guide

The Badaling Great Wall, the most renowned section of China's Great Wall, stands as a testament to ancient Chinese engineering and determination. First constructed during the Spring and Autumn Period (7th century BC), this architectural marvel stretches 21,000 kilometers from Shanhaiguan in the east to Jiayuguan in the west.

Why Visit Badaling Great Wall

• Most well-preserved and accessible section of the Great Wall
• Features the famous "Hero Slope" with the ancient saying "He who has not been to the Great Wall is not a Hero"
• Offers stunning panoramic views from multiple vantage points
• Historical significance as the most visited section of the Great Wall

Best Photo Spots

1. Hero's Slope: Iconic stone inscription spot
2. North Tower 8: Highest point offering spectacular views of the winding wall
3. South Tower 4: Perfect location for panoramic photographs

Detailed Hiking Routes

North Great Wall Route

• Easy Section (North Towers 1-4)

  • Gentle slope, suitable for all visitors
  • Cable car available at North Tower 4
  • Most crowded section

• Moderate Section (North Towers 5-7)

  • Features the famous "Hero Slope"
  • Aerial tramway available at North Tower 7

• Challenging Section (North Towers 8-12)

  • Less crowded, perfect for adventure seekers
  • Steeper steps and more challenging terrain
  • Cable car available at North Tower 11
  • Total hiking time: 3-4 hours one way

South Great Wall Route

• Towers 1-7
  • Gentler slopes, ideal for families and seniors
  • Ground cable car available at South Tower 4
  • Total hiking time: 1-1.5 hours one way

Transportation Options

1. High-Speed Rail (Recommended)

   • From: Beijing North Station or Qinghe Station
   • Duration: 35-40 minutes
   • Cost: ¥23-25

2. Public Bus

   • Bus 877: From Deshengmen (Jishuitan) Station
   • Duration: 70-90 minutes
   • Cost: ¥6 with mobile payment, ¥12 cash

3. Tourist Coach

   • Multiple pickup points including Front Gate, National Library
   • Duration: 1.5 hours
   • Cost: ¥80 round trip
   • Drops off at Bird's Nest/Water Cube on return

Admission & Facilities

• Opening Hours: 6:30-16:30
• Entry Ticket: ¥40
• Cable Car:
  • Single trip: ¥100
  • Round trip: ¥140
• Facilities:
  • Restrooms at Towers 1, 4, and 7
  • Food court near entrance
  • International restaurants (KFC, Starbucks)
  • Souvenir shops

Essential Tips

1. Best Visiting Time

   • Spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures
   • Early morning to avoid crowds
   • Special night tours available in summer

2. What to Bring

   • Comfortable hiking shoes
   • Water and snacks
   • Power bank
   • Weather protection (umbrella/sunscreen)
   • Light refreshments (chocolate, dried meat, fruits recommended)

3. Accessibility

   • South route recommended for elderly and children
   • Consider cable cars for easier access
   • Rest areas available at major towers

Food Options

• Traditional Beijing snacks available (Zhajiangmian, Douzhir, candied fruits)
• Multiple restaurants serving Chinese and Western cuisine
• Convenience stores and cafes near the entrance
• Reasonable prices for tourist area

Badaling Great Wall Restaurant Guide

Discover the best dining options around the Badaling Great Wall, from convenient food courts to authentic Chinese restaurants.

A Complete Guide Map to the Badaling Great Wall

The North Great Wall has 12 sections, with Tower 8 being the highest point. The South Great Wall has 7 sections and is relatively gentler in slope.

Route 1: Easy Walking Tour

(Cable car up + slide down, light hiking) Take the ground cable car up to South Tower 4 - Walk north to North Tower 8's Hero Slope - Return to North Tower 7 - Take aerial cable car down

Highlights: Hero Slope (overlooking Great Wall scenery), North Tower 8 summit views, Hero Stone Tablet, cable car scenic views

Route 2: Complete Tour

Suitable for physically fit visitors. Walking entrance - Hike South Tower 1 to 7 - Return to South Tower 1 - Hike North Tower 1 to 12 - Return to North Tower 11 - Black Bear Park - Exit Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours

Highlights: Complete experience of Hero Slope, Hero Stone Tablet, North Tower 8 summit views, toboggan ride down

Route 3: North-South Combined Tour

Walking entrance - Hike South Tower 1 to 7 - Return to South Tower 1 - Hike North Tower 1 to 8 - Return to North Tower 4 - Toboggan down

Highlights: Hero Slope, Hero Stone Tablet, North Tower 8 summit views, toboggan ride

Route 4: Balanced Experience

Cable car entrance - Take cable car to North Tower 7 - Hike to North Tower 8 - Return to North Tower 4 - Toboggan down - Black Bear Park - Exit

Route 5: Easiest Route

Cable car entrance - Take cable car to North Tower 7 - Hike to North Tower 8 - Return to North Tower 7 - Cable car down