If China’s Great Wall is the country’s most famous architectural marvel, then Beijing Great Wall National Park is its best-kept secret. This sprawling protected area offers a breathtaking mix of history, nature, and adventure—without the overwhelming crowds of some of the more touristy sections of the wall.
Beijing Great Wall National Park spans several well-preserved sections of the Great Wall, weaving through rugged mountains, lush forests, and charming villages. Unlike the bustling, polished Badaling section, this park focuses on conservation, eco-tourism, and the authentic experience of exploring the ancient fortifications in a more natural setting. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the Beijing Great Wall National Park;
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Overview of Beijing Great Wall National Park
Beijing Great Wall National Park, currently in development, is set to preserve and showcase one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Situated about 43 miles northeast of Beijing, the park’s initial protected zone spans about 23.2 square miles. It has a designated buffer of about 2 km on either side of the Great Wall.
The park is anchored by the Badaling section (the most visited part of the Wall) where only 2.3 miles and 19 watchtowers have been restored for public exploration. Visitors to Badaling can marvel at the wall’s impressive dimensions, with an average height of 26 feet and a width of 20 feet. It’s wide enough to accommodate five horses or ten soldiers marching side by side.
The Great Wall itself stretches an astonishing 5,500 miles (8,850 km), incorporating both natural barriers like steep hills and man-made fortifications. Watchtowers, strategically positioned along the wall, played vital roles in military defense, communication, and housing for soldiers.
To enhance accessibility, a cable car system allows seniors and those with mobility challenges to experience this historical wonder. Badaling, often the site where world leaders and dignitaries are taken, remains the centerpiece of this ambitious national park project.
Wildlife in Beijing Great Wall National Park
Beijing Great Wall National Park is not only a historic marvel but also a haven for diverse wildlife. For close encounters with wildlife, head to Badaling Wildlife World and Badaling Wildlife Zoo.
Badaling Wildlife World is home to an impressive collection of over 100 African lions, more than 20 white tigers, and over 20 Asian tigers. Beyond these majestic big cats, it also shelters Malayan bears, golden monkeys, crested ibis, Asian antelope, leopards, wolves, and even African giraffes.
Nearby, the Badaling Wildlife Zoo serves as a natural ecological park featuring 47 species, including giant raccoons, wild boars, petite sun bears, pandas, kangaroos, and macaques. With 20 dedicated animal tourism spots, four show halls, a plantation, a holiday resort, and two gyms, the zoo blends conservation with entertainment.
Best Time to Visit Beijing Great Wall National Park
The ideal time to visit Beijing Great Wall National Park is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild, the skies are clear, and the scenery is at its most breathtaking.
In spring, the wall is surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers while autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant red, orange, and yellow foliage. These seasons also offer comfortable temperatures, making it easier to explore the wall without the sweltering heat of summer or the icy conditions of winter.
Another advantage of visiting during these months is the reduced crowds—unlike peak summer holidays or major Chinese national holidays, when the park can be packed with tourists. It’s best to avoid summer due to intense heat and heavy foot traffic, while winter’s icy paths can make certain sections of the wall difficult to access.
Getting to Beijing Great Wall National Park
Reaching Beijing Great Wall National Park is fairly straightforward, with multiple options depending on your preference for convenience, budget, and experience. The Great Wall spans about 60 to 130 kilometers (40–80 miles) from downtown Beijing, with Beijing Capital International Airport as the closest air hub.
If you’re heading to well-preserved sections like Badaling or Mutianyu, you can choose from public transportation, a guided tour, or a private car. Public buses and official tourist buses connect Beijing to ticketed areas at Badaling, Jinshanling, and Simatai, making them an affordable and direct choice. Alternatively, the Beijing North Station offers a train route to Badaling—the only section accessible by rail.
For a deeper dive into the Wall’s rich history, guided tours are available, catering to interests ranging from cultural heritage to outdoor adventure. Those who prefer flexibility can hire a private car with an English-speaking driver, ideal for visiting specific or less-crowded sections.
Other Activities in Beijing Great Wall National Park
Beijing Great Wall National Park offers visitors a wealth of experiences beyond just walking along the iconic structure. Exploring different sections of the Great Wall itself is a must. For many, Mutianyu stands out for its well-preserved fortifications and stunning landscapes. However, Badaling is the most visited section and boasts historical significance as a Ming Dynasty construction from 1504.
Beyond the wall, the area is rich with parks and cultural sites. Jingshan Park provides a peaceful retreat with an artificial hill offering panoramic views of the Forbidden City. On the other hand, Chaoyang Park combines lush greenery with a scenic lake and funfair rides.
History enthusiasts can visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once conducted sacred rituals. For nature enthusiasts, the Summer Palace is the place to be. It’s home to China’s largest imperial garden and the famous Seventeen-Arch Bridge.
The Lama Temple impresses with its grandeur as the country’s largest and best-preserved Tibetan Buddhist temple. For a modern twist, the 798 Art Zone transforms a former factory into a vibrant creative hub, where industrial remnants and Cultural Revolution-era slogans blend with contemporary art.
Park Fees in Beijing Great Wall National Park
The Beijing Great Wall National Park charges varying entrance fees depending on the section and season. At Mutianyu, admission is 60 RMB ($8.30) per person, while Huanghuacheng charges 65 RMB ($9.00) per person. The Juyongguan section has a lower entry fee of 45 RMB ($6.20).
Meanwhile, the popular Badaling section adjusts its pricing based on the season. It charges 40 RMB ($5.50) in winter and spring and 45 RMB ($6.20) in summer and fall. Visitors to Mutianyu also have the option of a round-trip cable car or ski lift up with a toboggan ride down, which costs an additional 140 RMB ($19.30) per person.
FAQs
Is the Great Wall of China a national park?
The Great Wall of China itself is not a national park, but a section of it is part of the developing Great Wall National Park. This national park is still in the process of being established. The initial phase covers roughly 23.2 square miles (60 sq km), aiming to preserve both the historical significance of the Wall and the surrounding natural landscape.
What was the Great Wall of China built for?
The Great Wall of China holds immense historical and cultural significance. Originally built to safeguard China from external threats, the wall served as a defensive barrier against invading forces. However, it also played a crucial role in preserving Chinese traditions by limiting the influence of foreign customs that were seen as a threat to the empire’s cultural identity.
Conclusion
Beijing Great Wall National Park is more than just a scenic escape—it’s a chance to experience one of the world’s greatest wonders. Whether you’re an adventurer or just someone who loves a good view, this park is a must-visit.
