Ultimate Guide to Badaling Great Wall: Hiking Routes, History & Tips

Introduction

No trip to Beijing is complete without witnessing the majesty of the Great Wall. Among its many sections, the Badaling Great Wall stands as the most representative and best-preserved masterpiece of the Ming Dynasty. Built around 1505, this architectural wonder winds through rugged mountains like a stone dragon. There is a famous Chinese saying championed by Chairman Mao: "He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a true man." For travelers seeking to earn this title of "Hero," Badaling offers the most classic experience. This guide covers everything you need to know to navigate this site efficiently, from transportation to the best hiking routes.

Getting There: The Journey Begins

Badaling is located approximately 60 kilometers northwest of downtown Beijing. While there are several ways to reach the site, choosing the right mode of transport can save you time and frustration.

We strongly recommend taking the High-Speed Train or the S2 Suburban Railway. You can check schedules and book tickets via the official "12306" platform. The S2 line is particularly famous for its scenic route, especially during spring when flowers bloom along the tracks. Alternatively, public bus No. 87 is an option, but it is generally not recommended due to the long travel time and potential for traffic jams. Driving is possible, but parking can be competitive.

Planning Your Ascent: Cable Car vs. Hiking

Upon arrival, you face a strategic choice: hike up from the bottom or take the cable car to the peak. The Great Wall at Badaling is divided into the North Section and the South Section. The North Section is widely considered the essence of the scenic area, offering more dramatic views and challenging terrain.

• The Leisure Route (Cable Car): If you are traveling with seniors, children, or simply wish to save energy for the descent, head to the cable car station. A one-way ticket costs 100 RMB, and a round-trip is 140 RMB. The cable car whisks you directly to the North 8th Tower, the highest point of this section.

• The Challenger Route (Hiking): For fitness enthusiasts, start your climb from the North 1st Tower. This route allows you to experience the gradual elevation change and appreciate the architectural details up close.

Exploring the North Section: The "Hero's Slope"

The core of your visit will likely focus on the stretch between the North 1st and North 8th Towers.

The North 8th Tower (Bei Ba Lou) is the crown jewel of Badaling. Standing at an elevation of 888 meters, it is the highest enemy tower in the area. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the wall snaking over the mountain ridges. This is the prime location for photography, offering a bird's-eye perspective of the fortifications.

The path leading up to the North 8th Tower is famously known as the "Hero Slope" (Haohan Po). It is one of the steepest segments of the wall. The stairs can be daunting, but sturdy handrails are provided on both sides. Take your time and use the railings for support. As you climb, look closely at the bricks; you might unfortunately see names carved by past visitors. Please act as a responsible traveler and refrain from adding to this graffiti—preserve history for future generations.

Architectural Marvels: Towers 4, 5, and 6

As you descend or traverse the wall, pay attention to the unique features of the enemy towers.

• North 6th Tower: This is the largest enemy tower in terms of area at Badaling. It features a spacious lower level and intricate brickwork.

• North 5th Tower: Stepping inside this tower feels like entering a small maze. Historically, this served as a living quarter for soldiers and a storage depot for supplies. The layout can be disorienting, giving you a glimpse into the defensive strategies of ancient warfare.

• Defensive Details: Observe the battlements. You will notice observation holes and shooting ports. Interestingly, some towers feature a specific pattern of four holes on the upper level and seven on the lower level, designed for both surveillance and firing crossbows or cannons at invading forces.

The Descent and the "Hero Stone"

If you hiked up or took the cable car to the top, you don't necessarily have to walk all the way back. Near the North 4th Tower, you will find the station for the Toboggan (Slide). These "slide cars" run on a green track and offer a thrilling, fast-paced descent that looks like a khaki-colored castle station from a distance.

Around the plaza near the North 4th Tower and the visitor center, keep an eye out for the famous "Hero Stone" inscribed with Chairman Mao's poem. While the main stone often attracts long lines for photos, there are actually multiple stone inscriptions in the area commemorating this sentiment.

Dining and Facilities: What to Expect

Commercial facilities are available on the wall, particularly near the North 8th Tower rest area, but be prepared for "tourist prices."

• Food: A simple beef burger costs around 20 RMB, a fried chicken leg is 12 RMB, and a cup of tea is 15 RMB. Fresh produce like cucumbers (6 RMB each) and oranges (10 RMB per box) are also sold.

• Souvenirs: You can purchase an official "I Climbed the Great Wall" certificate. Photography services are available, charging 30 RMB for a 6-inch photo and 50 RMB for a 12-inch photo.

Pro Tip: To save money and ensure quality, we highly recommend packing your own high-energy snacks and plenty of water before entering the scenic area.

The Great Wall Museum

If you have energy left after your hike, visit the Great Wall Museum located near the high-speed train station. It offers a deep dive into the history, construction, and cultural significance of the wall. Best of all, it provides a quiet respite from the crowds. Note that the museum is closed on Mondays.

Conclusion

A trip to the Badaling Great Wall is a journey through time. Whether you challenge yourself on the steep steps of the Hero Slope or gaze out from the majestic North 8th Tower, the scale of this human achievement is humbling. By arriving early and choosing the right transport, you can ensure your memory of the Great Wall is one of awe, not exhaustion.