The Great Wall is a symbol of Chinese civilization, and one of the wonders that the Chinese people have created. Badaling Great Wall, the most representative part, was promoted as a key national cultural relic, protected under the approval of the State Council in 1961. In 1988, it was enlisted in the World Cultural Heritage Directory by UNESCO. On July 7, 2007, it gained the worldwide reputation once again: it was listed among the New Seven Wonders of the World.
This section of Great Wall is the best preserved and earliest to be open for sightseeing. The Great Wall is undoubtedly among the most imposing and amazing architectures in this planet.
Scenery: The mountain and valley scenery at Badaling changes with the seasons. See What is the best time to visit the Great Wall?
Dimensions: Badaling is 7,600 meters (4.7 miles) long. It has the most magnificent wall among all the sections of the Great Wall. Built with tall granite slabs (weighing 1,000 kg or 2,205 pounds each) on the outside, the walls are very solid and trim. The wall is on average 7.8 meters (26 ft) tall and 5.7 meters (19 ft), which allows five horses to gallop abreast and ten people to go shoulder to shoulder.
History: The Great Wall at Badaling was built in the 18th year (1505) of the reign of Hong Zhi, an emperor of the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644). Badaling is the section that has been open to the public the longest (since 1957).
Comprehensive Tour Services: Badaling has the most comprehensive tour services amongst all sections of the Great Wall, including a circular-screen cinema, Great Wall Museum, shopping and dining facilities, as well as barrier-free structures for the disabled.
Transport
Badaling is located about 80 km (50 miles) northwest of Beijing (a 1 hour 30 minutes journey from the city center). China Highlights use comfortable high-quality air-conditioned private transport for your convenience.
Walking Conditions
The paths, pavements and steps of the Great Wall at Badaling are well-paved with granite slabs, and handrails are installed inside each side of the wall, therefore walking conditions pose no significant risks. There is the option to use a cable car or pulley to avoid the trek up to the wall.
What to Wear
Dress for hiking and dress for the weather. Choose comfortable footwear with good grip and support for the feet. Layers of clothes that can be taken on and off allow for greater comfort and temperature control.
Wear/bring sun protection in the summer and dress for sub zero temperatures in the winter. It can feel much colder on the wall than down in the valleys because of altitude and exposure.
What to Bring
Bring breathable waterproofs for protection from rain and wind. Umbrellas may be used here as the ascents and descents are not difficult, but may be inconvenient in strong winds. Bring a camera and money for souvenirs and refreshments. Bring snacks and water if you want to walk a long portion of the wall.
When to go
The scenery of the Great Wall varies with the seasons and each season has its pros and cons. Click here for what you can expect on the Great Wall near Beijing.
Badaling Tours
Badaling Tours typically include a visit to the nearby Ming Tombs with their Sacred Way.
Our China tours and Beijing tours usually include Mutianyu as the Great Wall visit, but if you would prefer Badaling just let us know. Great Wall Tours
The paths, pavements and steps of the Great Wall at Badaling are well-paved with granite slabs, and handrails are installed inside each side of the wall, therefore walking conditions pose no significant risks. There is the option to use a cable car or pulley to avoid the trek up to the wall. See map below.
Scenery: The mountain and valley scenery at Badaling changes with the seasons. See What is the best time to visit the Great Wall?
Dimensions: Badaling is 7,600 meters (4.7 miles) long. It has the most magnificent wall among all the sections of the Great Wall. Built with tall granite slabs (weighing 1,000 kg or 2,205 pounds each) on the outside, the walls are very solid and trim. The wall is on average 7.8 meters (26 ft) tall and 5.7 meters (19 ft), which allows five horses to gallop abreast and ten people to go shoulder to shoulder.
History: The Great Wall at Badaling was built in the 18th year (1505) of the reign of Hong Zhi, an emperor of the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644). Badaling is the section that has been open to the public the longest (since 1957).
Comprehensive Tour Services: Badaling has the most comprehensive tour services amongst all sections of the Great Wall, including a circular-screen cinema, Great Wall Museum, shopping and dining facilities, as well as barrier-free structures for the disabled.