Great Wall In-Depth 3-Day Tour

Tour Overview

Go beyond the typical Great Wall day trip with this immersive 3-day exploration of three distinct sections of China’s most iconic monument. From the restored grandeur of Mutianyu to the wild beauty of Jinshanling and the romantic night views at Simatai, experience the Great Wall’s many faces. This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches over 20,000 kilometers.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Beijing to Mutianyu Great Wall

Morning pickup from your Beijing hotel. Drive approximately 1.5 hours to Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the best-preserved and most scenic sections. Take the cable car up to the wall and spend the morning exploring this beautifully restored Ming Dynasty section.

Walk along the wall between watchtowers, learning about the wall’s construction, military purpose, and the lives of soldiers who once guarded it. Mutianyu features 23 watchtowers along its 2.5-kilometer restored section, with stunning views of forested mountains.

Enjoy lunch at a local farmhouse restaurant featuring traditional Beijing countryside cuisine. Afternoon continue exploring or take the thrilling toboggan ride down.

Drive to Gubei Water Town near Simatai for overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast (Beijing hotel), Lunch (farmhouse restaurant) Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Gubei Water Town

Day 3: Simatai Great Wall - Return to Beijing

Early morning visit to Simatai Great Wall, the only Great Wall section open for night viewing and one of the few that retains its original Ming Dynasty appearance. This “wild wall” section features steep climbs and dramatic scenery.

Hike along Simatai’s eastern section, known for its precarious perches and watchtowers built on knife-edge ridges. The Wangjing Tower at the summit offers views all the way to Beijing on clear days. Your guide will explain how Simatai differs from restored sections and why preservationists consider it so valuable.

Late morning descend and enjoy a final lunch in Gubei Water Town. Afternoon transfer back to Beijing, arriving in the city by late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Gubei Water Town)

Travel Tips

• Moderate fitness level required; Jinshanling involves 4-6 hours of hiking with elevation changes
• Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support - the wall surface is uneven
• Bring layers as mountain weather can change quickly; mornings and evenings are cool even in summer
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water (we provide some, but bring extra)
• Hiking poles are helpful for steep sections and can be rented locally
• Bring a camera with good zoom capability for capturing watchtower details and distant views
• Best photography light is early morning and late afternoon
• Spring (April-May) offers blooming wildflowers; autumn (September-October) has stunning foliage
• Avoid visiting during Chinese national holidays (October 1-7, May 1-5) when crowds are heavy
• The wall can be slippery after rain; we may adjust the itinerary for safety if needed
• Respect the wall - do not carve names or remove stones as souvenirs

Day 2: Jinshanling Great Wall Hike

After breakfast, drive to Jinshanling Great Wall (approximately 40 minutes), considered by many to be the most beautiful section of the Great Wall. This partially restored, partially wild section offers the perfect balance of accessibility and authenticity.

Spend the full day hiking along Jinshanling’s 10.5-kilometer section, passing through 67 watchtowers and 3 beacon towers. Your guide will share stories of the wall’s history, pointing out unique architectural features like the “Flower Tower” with its intricate carvings and the “Big Jinshan Tower” offering panoramic views.

Packed lunch enjoyed on the wall with spectacular scenery. The hiking is moderate with some steep sections; take your time and enjoy the journey.

Return to Gubei Water Town in late afternoon. Evening free to explore this charming water town built in traditional style.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (packed lunch on the wall) Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Gubei Water Town

Day 3: Simatai Great Wall - Return to Beijing

Early morning visit to Simatai Great Wall, the only Great Wall section open for night viewing and one of the few that retains its original Ming Dynasty appearance. This “wild wall” section features steep climbs and dramatic scenery.

Hike along Simatai’s eastern section, known for its precarious perches and watchtowers built on knife-edge ridges. The Wangjing Tower at the summit offers views all the way to Beijing on clear days. Your guide will explain how Simatai differs from restored sections and why preservationists consider it so valuable.

Late morning descend and enjoy a final lunch in Gubei Water Town. Afternoon transfer back to Beijing, arriving in the city by late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Gubei Water Town)

Travel Tips

• Moderate fitness level required; Jinshanling involves 4-6 hours of hiking with elevation changes
• Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support - the wall surface is uneven
• Bring layers as mountain weather can change quickly; mornings and evenings are cool even in summer
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water (we provide some, but bring extra)
• Hiking poles are helpful for steep sections and can be rented locally
• Bring a camera with good zoom capability for capturing watchtower details and distant views
• Best photography light is early morning and late afternoon
• Spring (April-May) offers blooming wildflowers; autumn (September-October) has stunning foliage
• Avoid visiting during Chinese national holidays (October 1-7, May 1-5) when crowds are heavy
• The wall can be slippery after rain; we may adjust the itinerary for safety if needed
• Respect the wall - do not carve names or remove stones as souvenirs