Mutianyu Great Wall Tickets with Chairlift or Toboggan

Mutianyu Great Wall in Huairou, north of Beijing

Mutianyu is a Great Wall section in Huairou District, roughly 70 kilometres north-east of central Beijing. Its foundations go back to the sixth century, and the wall you see today was largely built in the Ming dynasty, in the fourteenth century, to protect the capital and the imperial tombs. The restored stretch runs for several kilometres along wooded ridges, with more than twenty watchtowers.

It is often described as the most beautiful section of the Great Wall near Beijing, and many travellers ask if Mutianyu is worth visiting compared with Badaling: the answer is usually yes, because it has fewer crowds, cleaner views and easier photography. This ticket is entry only, so you need to organise your own way from the city; the drive takes about one and a half to two hours.

Chairlift up and toboggan down

The chairlift takes you from the lower station up to the wall in a few minutes, with open views over the forested mountains. That saves you the long climb from the valley, which is a big help in summer heat or with young children. Once on the wall you can walk in either direction; the towers nearer the lift are the busiest.

For the return, the toboggan is a metal track through the trees on which you control your own speed with a hand brake, a ride of roughly one and a half kilometres. It is the most popular part of the day for many visitors, but it may be closed in rain, snow or strong wind, in which case you use the alternative way down. Follow the staff instructions and keep a safe distance from the rider in front.

Walking the wall: watchtowers, views and the best time to visit

Mutianyu's wall is paved and mostly well restored, with steep steps between towers and short flatter sections. Most visitors walk the stretch between the main towers for one to two hours, then continue as far as they wish. Climbing the towers gives the best views of the wall snaking along the ridgeline.

The best time to visit Mutianyu is spring and autumn, when the trees are green or red and the air is clear; in winter it can be cold but beautifully quiet. Arrive early on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and a layer for wind. Opening hours change by season, so check the entry time on your ticket.

Getting to Mutianyu and how the ticket works

The ticket includes entry to the Great Wall, the short internal shuttle bus from the ticket area to the chairlift, the chairlift ride up and the toboggan slide down. It does not include transport from Beijing, the cable car, a guide, meals or tips. Your tickets are sent electronically one day before your visit, so keep your phone with you.

You can reach Mutianyu by taxi, by a ride-hailing car, by a private driver you arrange yourself, or by public bus to Huairou followed by a local car. A full day is best: allow about eight hours door to door, including travel, the wall and the return. There is a minimum of two participants per booking.