The Mutianyu-to-Simatai section is the ultimate Great Wall hiking experience. Unlike the crowded tourist areas, this 11km trail follows the original, unrestored Ming Dynasty wall as it snakes over rugged mountain ridges. You'll pass crumbling watchtowers, walk along narrow battlements with panoramic views, and experience the Wall as it was meant to be — wild, silent, and awe-inspiring. The route passes through Mutianyu (partially restored, good starting point) through Jiankou (the most dramatic wild section) to Simatai.
This is a challenging hike due to the unrestored wall — uneven steps, steep ascents/descents through watchtowers, and narrow sections with exposed drops. Not recommended for those with a fear of heights. The terrain is rocky and requires good balance.
The classic end-to-end traverse covering the most dramatic sections of the wild Great Wall.
Ideal for those who want to experience the restored Great Wall without the intensity of the full traverse.
Best: March-May (spring wildflowers, mild weather) and September-November (clear skies, golden autumn colors). Summer (Jun-Aug) is hot and humid with thunderstorm risk on exposed ridges — start before 7 AM if hiking in summer. Winter (Dec-Feb) is possible but icy and extremely windy; microspikes recommended. The wall is most dramatic in early morning or late afternoon light.
Everything you need to know as an international traveler planning this route in China.
Most nationalities need a Chinese visa. Apply at your nearest Chinese embassy 1-2 months before travel. Citizens of Japan, Singapore, Brunei enjoy 15-day visa-free entry. As of 2024, citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia and several others enjoy 15-day visa-free entry to China — check if your country is on the list. Beijing is a major international gateway, so this trail is easily accessible once you have your visa.
No special permits needed. Entrance tickets: Mutianyu ¥40 (cable car ¥120 round trip), Simatai ¥40. Buy at the gate or via WeChat Mini Program search '慕田峪长城' or '古北水镇'. Passport required for purchase. The wild section between (Jiankou) has no official entrance — access is sometimes restricted; check current status locally.
Mutianyu: book via the official WeChat Mini Program or platforms like Trip.com/Meituan. Simatai: book via the Gubei Water Town (古北水镇) platform. Weekends and holidays get very crowded — book weekday visits if possible. No advance booking needed in low season.
Mutianyu ticket booth accepts Alipay and WeChat Pay. Some vendors also accept cash. The cable car and toboggan operators take mobile payment. Carry some cash (¥50-100) as a backup — international credit cards are NOT accepted at the scenic area.
From Beijing: take Subway Line 2 to Dongzhimen Station, then bus 916 Express to Huairou (怀柔, ~1.5h), then taxi to Mutianyu (¥50-60, 20 min). Alternatively, book a direct tourist bus from Dongzhimen (¥80 round trip) or hire a driver for the day (¥500-800). To reach Simatai: bus to Gubeikou (古北口) or arrange private transfer.
Near Mutianyu: Mutianyu Great Wall Lodge (¥400-800/night), farmhouse inns (农家院, ¥150-300/night) in Xin Ying village. Near Simatai: Gubei Water Town hotels (¥600-2000/night) — a scenic resort town at the base. Budget travelers can return to Beijing the same evening.
Very limited English at Mutianyu. Signage has some English. At Simatai/Gubei Water Town, basic English is available. Useful phrases: 买门票 (mǎi mén piào) = buy ticket; 缆车在哪 (lǎn chē zài nǎ) = where is the cable car?; 厕所在哪 (cè suǒ zài nǎ) = where is the toilet?
4G/5G signal is strong throughout Mutianyu and Simatai scenic areas. Free WiFi at some restaurants near the entrance. Signal is weak on the wild Jiankou section. Download offline maps as backup.
Huairou District Hospital (怀柔区医院): 010-69622838. Beijing emergency: 120 (ambulance), 110 (police). Travel insurance strongly recommended — rescue from wild wall sections requires helicopter and costs ¥50,000+.
Absolutely incredible experience. Walking the wild wall at sunrise with no other tourists around was life-changing. Richard's guidance made it even better.
The Jiankou section is breathtaking. Steep and challenging but so worth it. Bring good boots and plenty of water.
No permit required. Entrance tickets can be purchased at Mutianyu or Simatai scenic area gates. The trail is open to all visitors.
Last verified: August 1, 2026