Is the Great Wall at Mutianyu worth the extra effort?
Last updated:
Recommendation
Mutianyu for an authentic Wall experience; Badaling only if you have <4 hours in Beijing.
You're choosing between Mutianyu (90 min drive) and Badaling (60 min drive) sections of the Great Wall.
The options
The verdict
Mutianyu for an authentic Wall experience; Badaling only if you have <4 hours in Beijing.
Read next
Other Destinations decisions
Should I visit Beijing or Shanghai first?
Pick Beijing for a first trip with ≤7 days; pick Shanghai for repeat visits or food-focused trips.
Is Chengdu worth visiting?
Yes if you have 3+ extra days and care about food or animals; skip only if you're under time pressure.
Is Xi'an worth visiting on a 7-day trip?
Include Xi'an for 2 days if it's your first China trip — the Warriors and the city wall are unmatched.
Is Hong Kong worth adding to a mainland China trip?
Yes if you have 2+ days and want a decompression zone; Hong Kong counts as a "third country" for 240-hour transit re-entry.
Is Guilin worth the trip from Shanghai?
Yes if you have 4+ extra days and want scenery; skip on a 7-day first trip.