Gubeikou – Jinshanling Day Hike, The Complete Guide for Beginners

59 Responses to “Gubeikou – Jinshanling Day Hike, The Complete Guide for Beginners”

1. 

   Martin Stead 2024-01-10

   Hi Ricky, thanks for the great insights. A couple of questions: 1) I wanted to check if you know whether the walk is currently possible? I heard some of it might be closed? I plan to hike there around 8th/9th February. 2) Is the hiking part, “the hilly trail near the military zone (roughly a 1-hour walk)” easy to follow? Will we need a map? Thanks for your help! Martin Stead (UK)

   2024-01-10 at 23:13

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     Ricky 2024-01-11

     Hi Martin,
     The Gubeikou Great Wall is open all year, so you’re good to go for your hike on 8th/9th February. But just so you know, starting December 1st, the West Gate of Jinshanling (Taochunkou) is taking a break and will be closed until mid-March 2024. So, when you hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling, you won’t be able to access the Jinshanling part of the Wall. Instead, you’ll follow a hilly trail to the main gate of Jinshanling. It’s a different but still exciting route!

     About the hilly trail near the military zone, it’s a bit tricky to follow, especially if it’s your first time. The trees on both sides of the trail were marked with red ribbons for a marathon race last October. If those ribbons are still there, they’ll help guide you through the military zone. If not, it might be a bit challenging to find your way. Having a map could be really handy.

     Hope this helps, and have an amazing hike!

     2024-01-11 at 09:04

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2. 

   Adam 2024-02-05

   hello Ricky, just to confirm your previous comments. I will not be able to walk on the wall at Jinshanling? I will get through Gubeikou fine and then I will have to go off the wall and trek through a hilly pass to get to the gate at Jinshanling?

   2024-02-05 at 10:30

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     Ricky 2024-02-08

     You’ve got it exactly right! Starting December 1st, the West Gate of Jinshanling (Taochunkou) is going on a little holiday and will be closed until mid-March 2024. So, after exploring Gubeikou, you’ll indeed have an adventurous detour off the wall, trekking through a scenic hilly pass to reach the gate at Jinshanling.

     2024-02-08 at 10:04

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3. 

   Bob 2024-04-03

   Hi, maybe I missed something but I didn’t understand how the easiest way to return to Gubeikou after finishing the trek in Jinshanling?
   What are the options?
   Thanks!

   2024-04-03 at 05:21

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     Ricky 2024-04-03

     Thank you for reaching out with your question! After finishing your trek at Jinshanling, the easiest way to return to Gubeikou is to hire a local villager’s taxi at the Jinshanling main gate.

     They know the area well and can safely take you back to Gubeikou.

     This method is straightforward and saves you the hassle of navigating back on your own.

     2024-04-03 at 07:19

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4. 

   Isa 2024-04-05

   Nihao! Thanks for your helpful article which helped me a lot to plan my hike from Gubeikou to Janshiangling on Tuesday. So excited!
   I tried to book tickets for the s501 train through trip.com, but it shows “no seats” and other platforms say “standing only” but in neither way is it possible to book a ticket. First I thought that the early train on Tuesday is booked out, unfortunately, but then I found out that it’s not possible to book tickets regardless of date, time and direction. The app always shows “no seats”. Is this normal…? Is the train so well traveled that it sells out as soon as it is possible to make a reservation? Or should I try and get a ticket at the train station (I’m not in Beijing yet)? Thanks in advance! Isa

   2024-04-05 at 20:40

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     Ricky 2024-04-05

     I’m thrilled to hear the article was helpful for your hiking plans from Gubeikou to Jinshanling – it’s going to be an amazing adventure!

     Regarding the s501 train ticket issue, it sounds like a technical glitch rather than the train being fully booked, especially since it’s happening for various dates and times. It’s not typical for tickets to sell out that quickly for all options. My suggestion is to try purchasing a ticket directly at the train station once you arrive in Beijing. Often, there are tickets reserved for station sales that aren’t available online, and you might also find more flexibility and assistance in person to navigate any booking challenges.

     Enjoy your hike, and if you have any more questions or need further advice, feel free to ask! Ricky

     2024-04-05 at 21:48

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       Isa 2024-04-06

       Thank you so much for your reply. I will try to get a ticket once I’m there and if I’m not too overwhelmed and exited by Chinese travel life I will leave an update:-)

       2024-04-06 at 02:15

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5. 

   Boban 2024-04-15

   if I walk from gubeikou town in the direction of Simatai. What is the endpoint I can reach?

   2024-04-15 at 00:33

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     Ricky 2024-04-15

     If you walk from Gubeikou town towards Simatai, the endpoint you can reach is Jinshanling East Gate. This is a great spot to finish your walk and has some beautiful views!

     2024-04-15 at 09:38

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6. 

   Shelagh 2024-06-19

   I just want to say thanks Ricky! I will be in China in September 2024 with my 2 nieces and we will be hiking the Gubeikou to Jinshanling portion of the Great Wall. I am almost 70 years old, but am in fairly good shape I hope (I study flamenco dance a few hours every week). I have been looking for information on google and your blog is the most helpful and informative! Many thanks to you! I have one question, if we start out from Gubeikou to Jinshanling, leaving around 8 am, taking the maximum hiking time (because of my age, I will need to go slowly on the uphill sections) will it be possible to return to Beijing that same day? And if so, what is the best way? Is the Jinshanling cable car a good idea and if so where do we catch it?) Are taxis wait g at the Jinshanlimg main gate and what is the latest departure by bus back to Beijing or should we stay the night somewhere (where would you recommend) and return to Beijing the following day? Many thanks! Shelagh

   2024-06-19 at 15:12

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     Ricky 2024-06-19

     Hello Shelagh, I’m delighted to hear that you found the blog helpful and informative! For your hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling, starting at 8 am and taking it slow is definitely a wise plan, especially to enjoy the scenery and manage the hike comfortably.

     To address your questions:

     Returning to Beijing on the Same Day:
     Yes, you can certainly return to Beijing on the same day. If you start a bit earlier, around 7:30 am, and maintain a steady pace, the hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling should take about 5 hours at a slower pace. This would have you finishing in the early to mid-afternoon. Arranging for a private driver and guide would be a practical choice; the driver can meet you at the Jinshanling parking lot and ensure you’re back in Beijing by around 6 pm or 7 pm. This way, you can enjoy your hike without worrying about the return logistics.

     Using the Jinshanling Cable Car:
     The Jinshanling cable car is located next to the Lesser Jinshanling Tower, which means from Zhuanduokou—the exit of Jinshanling—you would need to walk up 3 to 4 towers to reach the cable car station. Given this, it might be more convenient to walk down from Zhuanduokou instead of climbing up to the cable car. This approach avoids the uphill climb to the cable car station, thereby eliminating the need for the cable car and saving you energy towards the end of your hike.

     Transportation Options:

     Bus: The last bus typically leaves at 4pm, which might be too early for you to catch after completing your hike. This makes it a less reliable option.

     Private Driver and Hiking Guide: Hiring a private driver and guide is the best choice. It offers more convenience and flexibility, allowing you to manage your schedule without the rush to catch the last bus. This way, you can enjoy your hike at your own pace and ensure a smooth return to Beijing.

     Taxis: Taxis may not consistently be available at Jinshanling’s main gate, and pre-arranging your return transport is recommended. Additionally, taxis can be expensive as they charge for waiting time, which may not be cost-effective.

     Staying Overnight:
     If you prefer not to rush back, staying overnight could be a relaxing option. There are several guesthouses and small hotels near Jinshanling that offer basic but comfortable accommodations. This would allow you to rest after the hike and return to Beijing refreshed the next morning.

     Given your circumstances, arranging for a private car & hiking guide is the most comfortable and flexible option, allowing you to manage your schedule without worrying about bus times or the availability of taxis.

     I hope this helps, and I wish you a fantastic adventure hiking the Great Wall with your nieces! If you have any more questions or need further assistance as your trip approaches, feel free to ask.

     2024-06-19 at 16:29

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       JT 2024-10-15

       Hello! I’m planning a day hike for the last week of November and am considering one of the following routes:

       Jiankou to Mutianyu
       Gubeikou to Jinshanling

       I’m curious if the routes are currently open. If so, which of the 2 would you recommend? Are these sections manageable on our own, or would you suggest hiring a guide?

       Also, for a multi-section hike on the Great Wall, such as from Gubeikou to Jinshanling, do we need to buy separate tickets for both the Gubeikou and Jinshanling sections, or is one ticket sufficient for the entire route?

       Thank you,
       JT

       2024-10-15 at 23:53

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         Ricky 2024-10-16

         Hi JT,

         Both routes you’re considering—Jiankou to Mutianyu and Gubeikou to Jinshanling—are fantastic choices, each with its own appeal. Let’s break it down:

         Current Route Status:

         Jiankou to Mutianyu: This section is generally open, but keep in mind that Jiankou is known for being rugged and wild. Parts of it are not officially restored, so conditions can vary, especially if there has been recent weather.

         Gubeikou to Jinshanling: This route is usually accessible, though there have been occasional closures in the past due to maintenance. As of now, it should be open, but I’d recommend confirming closer to your hike date.

         Which to Choose?

         Jiankou to Mutianyu is perfect if you’re looking for a mix of adventure and stunning views. It’s more challenging, with steep climbs and some scrambling, but you’ll be rewarded with fantastic photo opportunities.

         Gubeikou to Jinshanling is slightly less demanding but still offers a beautiful blend of wild and restored Wall sections. It’s a bit more relaxed, and the transition from Gubeikou’s untouched areas to Jinshanling’s restored parts is a highlight.

         Going Solo or Hiring a Guide?

         Jiankou to Mutianyu: This section is currently closed for restoration. Jiankou is known for its rugged, wild terrain, with parts that remain unrestored. Conditions can be unpredictable, especially after recent weather, so it’s important to check for updates if planning future hikes there.

         Ticket Information:

         For a multi-section hike like Gubeikou to Jinshanling, you will need separate tickets for both sections. You can buy the Gubeikou ticket at the start of the hike and the Jinshanling ticket once you arrive at the entrance there.

         I hope this helps you decide! Let me know if you have any more questions or need recommendations for guides or transport.

         Happy hiking,
         Ricky

         2024-10-16 at 22:02

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7. 

   wwwt 2024-08-13

   Bonjour Ricky,

   Super Blog, et merci pour ces informations.

   Avez-vous un contact pour un taxi afin de partir de pekin jusqu’à Gubeikou et potentiellement qu’il attendent à Jinshanlin.

   Merci

   2024-08-13 at 21:36

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     Ricky 2024-08-14

     Bonjour,

     Merci pour votre message! Oui, nous pouvons organiser un taxi privé pour vous de Pékin à Gubeikou, et il peut également vous attendre à Jinshanling. C’est pratique et facile!

     Si cela vous convient, faites-le moi savoir pour finaliser les détails.

     Cordialement,

     Ricky

     2024-08-14 at 19:30

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8. 

   Hrvoje 2024-09-17

   Hi Ricky, thank you for your great walkthrough. I’m planning to do it one day. Can you hire a local close to Gubeiko entrance and how much would it cost approximately? Thank you again!

   2024-09-17 at 17:49

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     Ricky 2024-09-19

     Hi Hrvoje, in theory, you can hire a local villager near the Gubeikou entrance, but due to language barriers, it’s not easy to find one on the spot. It’s better to book in advance to avoid any disappointment.

     2024-09-19 at 15:16

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9. 

   Dennis Jansen 2024-10-13

   Dear Ricky, thanks for the clear instructions. I’m planning to hiike this trail early November. I was just curious, you, like all others online describe the route from Gubeiko to Jinshanling. Is there a reason for not doing it the other way around? or is it just a coincidence most people do it like this? I would like to do it from Jinshanling to Gubeiko and then stay there. Looking forward to your reply. Best, Dennis

   2024-10-13 at 06:08

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     Ricky 2024-10-14

     Hi Dennis,

     Thank you for your message. Hiking the trail from Jinshanling to Gubeikou is absolutely possible and can offer a unique experience compared to the more commonly described route.

     The reason most people hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling is mainly due to the progression of the wall’s restoration and the flow of scenery:

     Scenery Progression: Starting at Gubeikou, you experience the Great Wall in its more natural and unrestored state. As you move towards Jinshanling, the wall becomes gradually more restored and well-preserved, culminating in the fully restored sections. This progression can make the hike feel like a journey through time.

     Sunlight and Photography: Hiking from east to west means the sun is generally behind you in the morning, which is ideal for photography and comfortable hiking without the sun in your eyes.

     Accessibility and Facilities: Jinshanling has better tourist facilities, accommodations, and transportation links. Ending the hike there allows hikers to easily find lodging or transportation back to Beijing or other destinations.

     However, hiking from Jinshanling to Gubeikou is just as feasible:

     Fewer Crowds: Starting at Jinshanling early in the morning might help you avoid crowds, especially if you visit during a less busy season like early November.

     Accommodation: If you plan to stay in Gubeikou afterward, this direction makes perfect sense. Gubeikou is a quieter village with local guesthouses that offer an authentic experience.

     Different Perspective: Hiking in the reverse direction provides a different visual experience and might offer unique photographic opportunities as you approach the less restored sections.

     Things to Consider:

     Trail Markings and Restrictions: Some parts of the wall between Jinshanling and Gubeikou might be restricted or less clearly marked when hiking in this direction. Ensure you have a good map or a guide.

     Transportation: Check the availability of transportation to Jinshanling in the early morning and from Gubeikou at the end of your hike, especially since services can be limited off-peak.

     Weather Conditions: Early November can be chilly, so dress appropriately and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

     Overall, there’s no strict reason not to hike from Jinshanling to Gubeikou. It largely depends on your personal preferences and logistical considerations.

     I hope this helps, and I wish you a wonderful and memorable hike!

     2024-10-14 at 14:44

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10. 

    Debra 2024-12-01

    Hi, Thankyou for the read.
    I’m wanting to I visit the wall on the 24th December.
    Potentially hiking Gubeik to Jinshanling.
    You mentioned section closed until March, are you saying this hike is not possible at this time?
    Or would you suggest other areas off the wall in the winter period?

    Also I’m intending on relaxing in the area for two nights, catching a train from Beijing on the 23rd to the wall. Would you suggest me stay in Gubeiko and transport back that way after the hike?

    2024-12-01 at 19:43

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      Ricky 2024-12-02

      Thanks for reaching out! The West Gate of Jinshanling (Taochunkou) is currently operating from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, but please note that it might be closed until mid-March 2025 – as it closed last year. For your visit on December 24th, the hike from Gubeikou to Jinshanling might be affected by this closure.

      Since you’re planning to relax in the area for two nights after arriving on the 23rd, staying in Gubeikou would be a great choice. It’s close to the Wall and will make your transport back after the hike much easier.

      Hope this helps and you have a fantastic trip!

      2024-12-02 at 09:42

      Reply
11. 

    Teerat 2024-12-28

    Hello, I’m going to Jinshanling on 18th of Jan, seeing the other comment that the west gate to Gubeikou might be closed until mid-March 2025, so is there any suggested hike route in Jinshanling area? for the duration of 4-6 hours. Thanks in advance.

    2024-12-28 at 19:22

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      Ricky 2024-12-29

      You’re absolutely right—the West Gate to Gubeikou is currently closed until mid-March 2025. However, Jinshanling still offers some fantastic hiking options for your trip on January 18th.

      For a 4–6 hour hike, I recommend the classic route starting from the Main Gate and exploring the watchtowers along the Wall. This route offers breathtaking views and well-preserved sections of the Wall, making it a perfect choice for your preferred duration.

      For more details, you can check out this post: https://wildgreatwall.com/wild-great-wall/jinshanling/

      2024-12-29 at 18:46

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      • 

        Teerat 2025-01-20

        Just wanted to update for anyone who seek the knowledge on this website as I did.
        I just got back from Jinshanling day hike trip on 18th of Jan. I took the S501 to Gubeikou station and hire a taxi as recommend from some website. The taxi cost is 150CNY now for the roundtrip, Gubeikou station – Jinshanling Main Gate, Gubeikou great wall and back to the station. The ticket for Jinshanling is 55CNY and Gubeikou is 33CNY during the winter months. Although the west gate of Jinshanling is closed but you can hike from the main gate all the way to Gubeikou with the military zone in the middle of the way. The sign is clear and easy to follow, the path is not too bad to walk but surely you need to be at certain fitness level to walk this route. The view is stunning and worth the time and effort to get there. It took me around 6+ hours including rest and photography time along the wall, the total route should be around 12-13 km long.

        2025-01-20 at 14:58

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        • 

          Ricky 2025-01-20

          Thank you for sharing your experience and providing updated information! This is incredibly helpful for anyone planning a similar trip to the Jinshanling Great Wall. Your details about transportation, ticket prices, and the hiking route, especially during the winter months, will definitely assist other travelers.

          Your experience confirms the breathtaking views and makes this adventure sound well worth the effort! It’s also great to know the signage is clear for self-guided hikes. Thanks again for contributing this valuable insight!

          2025-01-20 at 17:26

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12. 

    Gustavo 2025-02-25

    Hi,
    I am willing to do the tracking from Gubeikou to Jinshanling on the 3rd of March, but I have some doubts that would be amazing to know before going.
    1. If I do the tracking from Gubeikou to Jinshanling, is it possible to head to Beijing from Jinshanling to Beijing during the afternoon? I cannot find a way to buy the bus ticket, but I think you said that there is one leaving at 4p.m, right? How can I buy it?
    2. Is it better to do the other way around (from Jinshanling to Gubeikou), so I can catch the train leaving at 5:20p.m from Gubeikou to Beijing?
    Thank you

    2025-02-25 at 21:38

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      Ricky 2025-02-27

      Hi Gustavo, Thank you for reaching out! Your trek from Gubeikou to Jinshanling sounds like a fantastic adventure.

      Unfortunately, Tourist Bus No. 8 to Beijing from Jinshanling is not operating at the moment, so you won’t be able to take a bus back to Beijing on March 3rd. It is expected to resume service in mid-April.

      It might be a better idea to start from Jinshanling and hike towards Gubeikou. This way, you can catch the train leaving from Gubeikou to Beijing at 5:20 p.m.

      Happy travels!

      2025-02-27 at 09:36

      Reply
13. 

    Diana 2025-03-03

    Hi! I will be staying at Gubei Water Town, do you perhaps have someone local who I can contact either as a driver or a guide for this part? Everywhere I read, it says that I should not rely on the public transport. And I am a bit concerned about the part where I will need to leave the wall between sections.

    2025-03-03 at 00:18

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      Ricky 2025-03-03

      Hi Diana, hank you for reaching out! You’re absolutely right—public transport to and from Gubei Water Town can be unreliable, so having a private driver or guide is a great option.

      I can arrange for a reliable local driver to assist you with transportation, ensuring a smooth trip between Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall. If you’d like a guide as well, I can help arrange that too, so you’ll have support navigating the sections of the Wall and any required transfers.

      Let me know your travel dates and preferences, and I’ll be happy to organize the best option for you! Just DM me at wildgreatwall@gmail.com for more details.

      2025-03-03 at 14:10

      Reply
14. 

    Britt 2025-03-19

    Hello Ricky, I’d like to go to Gubeikou and do the Jinshanling hike this Monday or Tuesday but I’ll be going by myself a can really effort a private driver because of this. I would love to experience the sunset there but I have no clue what the options would be then for coming back to Beijing on the same day. Will the train still go after sunset and will I be able to get to the trainstation with a taxi or shuttle service? Or a way from the wall directly back to Beijing, or the best would be a return from and to Beijng for 1000¥ or less? Thank you in advance.

    Britt

    2025-03-19 at 14:07

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      Ricky 2025-03-20

      Hi Britt! For your solo trip to Gubeikou and Jinshanling, here are some options to consider for getting back to Beijing:

      Train from Gubeikou to Beijing:

      The nearest train station to Gubeikou is Gubeikou Railway Station. However, trains from there might not run very late, so depending on the sunset time (around 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM these days), you may not catch a train after sunset.
      The last train is usually around 6:00 PM, which would make it tough to rely on trains after sunset if you want to stay for the sunset experience. It’s worth double-checking the exact train times closer to your trip.

      Taxi/Shuttle from Jinshanling to a Train Station:

      You could hire a taxi or find a shuttle to take you from Jinshanling to Luanping Railway Station, which is another train option (about 30–40 minutes drive from Jinshanling).
      From Luanping, you can catch a train back to Beijing, which would be more reliable if you’re planning on staying for sunset.
      The taxi ride from Jinshanling to Luanping can cost around 150-200¥, so it’s not too expensive.

      Private Car Service for a Roundtrip:

      If you can stretch your budget a bit, a private car hire could be a good way to directly experience the sunset and get back to Beijing afterward without worrying about schedules. There are drivers who provide round-trip services from Beijing to Jinshanling for around 600-800¥, and sometimes even less depending on your negotiation.

      Cost-Effective Alternative:

      If your budget is strictly 1000¥ or less, combining a local taxi (to a nearby train station) and using the train could work well. You might also find group shuttle services that offer a return from Beijing to Jinshanling, which could cost you around 400-500¥, but these are usually scheduled in advance, and they might not accommodate last-minute decisions..

      I hope this helps.

      2025-03-20 at 15:46

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15. 

    Gabrielle 2025-05-11

    Hi Ricky! Thanks for your informative post about hiking these sections of the great wall! I’m flying to China next week and will be in Beijing for 4 days (arriving on 20th May), with plans of hiking the Great Wall. I have a couple questions I’m hoping you can help with.
    I would like to do 2 days of hiking on the Wall – this will be self guided. I have a lot of experience with multi day, self supported hikes, so I feel confident going it alone. My original plan was to camp on the Great Wall with a tour, but I’ve had no response from any of the seemingly reputable agencies that offer this experience, so I feel like this is the next best thing.

    My plan for day 1 (21st May 2025) is Gubeikou – Jinshanling.
    My plan for day 2 (22nd May 2025) is Jiankou – Mutianyu.

    My questions are:
    1) Is it better/easier to book accommodation in Jinshanling at the end of day 1 or go back to Beijing that day? (I plan to start as early as the first train+taxi can get me there)
    1B) What are the transport options from Jinshanling back to Beijing?
    2) Is it better/easier to travel to Jiankou from Beijing, or from Jinshanling?
    2B) If travel from Jinshanling to Jiankou is an option, what are those options?
    3) Is the Jiankou section open? I understand this section is unrestored but I’ve seen mixed comments online which seem to be pretty old so the information isn’t exactly reliable.

    Thanks so much in advance for any advice!
    Gabby.

    2025-05-11 at 16:16

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      Ricky 2025-05-12

      Hi Gabby,

      Thanks so much for your thoughtful message—and it’s great to hear you’re planning two full days of self-guided Great Wall hiking! Both routes you’ve chosen are absolutely stunning and very rewarding for experienced hikers. Let me walk you through your questions step-by-step:

      1) Accommodation after Gubeikou–Jinshanling hike
      Yes, it’s much better to stay near Jinshanling on the night of May 21st. Hiking Gubeikou to Jinshanling can take 5–7 hours depending on pace, breaks, and how much you explore. Heading back to Beijing afterward would be very tiring and complicated due to limited late transportation options.

      There are local guesthouses near the Jinshanling Main Gate and some charming courtyard inns in nearby villages.

      1B) Transport options from Jinshanling back to Beijing
      Here are your main options:

      Private car (most flexible and time-saving): ~2.5–3 hours, usually ~around 1000 RMB one-way depending on your pickup point.

      Public bus: As of now, no direct public bus runs consistently from Jinshanling to Beijing since the pandemic, especially not in the late afternoon. You’d usually need to taxi to Luanping or Gubeikou, then transfer to a bus or train—which is slow and unreliable.

      Didi: Not always available near the Wall—so it’s not a dependable option.

      So, a private transfer is the most practical way back to the city.

      2) Travel to Jiankou from Beijing vs. Jinshanling
      It’s much easier from Beijing.

      Jinshanling to Jiankou is quite a long and complex trip (~3–3.5 hours). There’s no direct route, and you’d need to arrange a private transfer (~900–1100 RMB) that takes you from Jinshanling across to the west side of the Wall.

      Logistically, it’s better to return to Beijing after day 1, rest for the night, and start fresh for Jiankou early on day 2.

      2B) If you must travel from Jinshanling to Jiankou
      It must be by private car, and you should pre-book it, as local taxis may not be willing or able to go that far. The drive cuts through mountainous areas with poor public transport.

      If you’re open to this, I can help arrange a reliable local driver for that route.

      3) Is Jiankou open?
      Great question—and yes, Jiankou is accessible, but here’s the nuance:

      Jiankou is an unrestored “wild wall” section, so it’s technically not officially open to the public in the same way Mutianyu or Jinshanling are.

      That said, hiking from General Guarding Pass to Sky Stairs is very common and generally accepted.

      Just a quick note: Tower 20—where Jiankou meets Mutianyu—sometimes has security guards on duty, particularly on weekends or public holidays. If they are present, they may not allow hikers to continue into the Mutianyu section directly.

      Some areas are steep, overgrown, or eroded—so your confidence in multi-day hiking will help. Still, use GPS/Maps.me and avoid hiking alone in foggy or rainy conditions.

      2025-05-12 at 07:20

      Reply
16. 

    Reno 2025-07-16

    What a good page you made!
    My wife and I are not that young anymore and have problems with knees and hips. But we have been hiking alot when we were younger.
    We want to hike a less visited part of the wall this summer, but we also know that we wont be able to do the trek anymore.
    Is there part of it, where we could take the cablecar up and do a easy 2 hour trek on the wall?
    – and do we need to book the entrance in advanced?
    Thanks!

    2025-07-16 at 10:55

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      Ricky 2025-07-16

      Thank you so much for your kind words—I’m so glad you found the page helpful!

      Absolutely, there are Great Wall sections that offer cable cars and easy, scenic walks. For your needs, I’d recommend Mutianyu. It’s very visitor-friendly, with facilities like a cable car, chairlift, toboggan, and shuttle buses. You can take the cable car up near Tower 14 and enjoy a relaxed 1.5–2 hour walk along the wall with beautiful views and good paths, then return the same way or take the chairlift or toboggan down if you like.

      Another option is Jinshanling, which is less crowded and offers a more natural atmosphere. It also has a cable car, but the path is a bit more rugged, so Mutianyu would likely be the most comfortable and accessible choice.

      As for entrance tickets, they can usually be purchased on-site, but during peak season (especially summer), it’s a good idea to book in advance—just to be safe and avoid any hassle. I’d be happy to help you arrange everything!

      Let me know your travel dates, and I’ll help you organize a smooth and enjoyable experience.

      Warm regards,
      Ricky

      2025-07-16 at 20:12

      Reply
17. 

    Andy 2025-07-22

    Hi Ricky
    Your page is fantastic n informative
    A quick question
    I’m planning to hike from Gubeikou to Jinshangling in end October 25.
    Can google map work or what map can you recommend.
    TQ

    2025-07-22 at 13:39

    Reply
    • 

      Ricky 2025-07-22

      Hi Andy,That sounds like an amazing hike! Here’s what you need to know:

      ️ Can Google Maps help?
      Google Maps can give you a general sense of roads and rough terrain, but it doesn’t show official hiking trails between Gubeikou and Jinshanling. The route includes sections through military zones and areas without regular signage—so it’s easy to get off-track without proper guidance.

      Recommended Maps & Apps
      Wikiloc / GPS-guided trail files
      You can download .GPX tracks of the hike (e.g., from Wikiloc), then follow with an app like BackCountry Navigator. This is strongly recommended to stay on route.
      That Adventurer

      AllTrails
      Useful for planning and seeing trail difficulty/duration. It frequently shows multiple routes in the Jinshanling area.

      Topo Hiking Maps
      Offline topo maps with GPS are ideal—especially since parts are remote/unmarked.

      Quick Hike Overview
      Distance & Time: ~12–15 km, taking approximately 5–7 hours one‑way.

      Terrain: Starts at Gubeikou, passes through wild/unrestored sections, bypasses a military zone, then joins the restored Jinshanling section.

      2025-07-22 at 13:49

      Reply
18. 

    Robert Lamb 2025-07-31

    Hi. Do you have any recommendations of local guides to do the Gubeikou to Jinshanling hike?

    Also, am I correct that if we do the hike we will need entrance tickets for both areas?

    Thank you for your great post!

    2025-07-31 at 18:25

    Reply
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      Ricky 2025-08-01

      Hi,

      Thank you for your kind words — I’m so glad you found the post helpful!

      Yes, we can absolutely arrange a local guide for your Gubeikou to Jinshanling hike. It’s a beautiful and memorable route!

      And you’re absolutely right — you’ll need two entrance tickets for this hike:

      One for Gubeikou, usually paid at the entrance.

      Another for Jinshanling, which is charged when you exit that section.

      2025-08-01 at 09:30

      Reply
19. 

    Chris 2025-08-15

    Hello Ricky,

    first of all thank you very much for the information provided here!

    I’m planning to hike the Gubeikou-Jinshanling trek next month (September 2025) with a couple of friends, and have some questions about that:

    1. I’ve read that the West Gate/section of the Jinshanling section was (is still?) closed for maintenance, but should reopen no later than September 1st. Do you have any information about that?

    2. Mentioned West Gate has the official opening hours of 9am to 5pm. We are planning to start our hike in Gubeikou after lunch around 1pm, so that we would arrive at the West Gate/section in Jinshanling where we get back on the Wall around 4:30 – 5pm. The reason for that is so that we can watch the sunset around 6:30pm on the Jinshanling Wall (probably on the West Five Window Tower) and afterwards head down.
    Do you know if the closing time for the West Gate at 5pm would affect us? Since we are not actually coming from the West Entrance area, but from the path next to the Wall that circumvents the military zone. Do we absolutely have to reach the West End of the Jinshanling section, meaning the place where we get back on the Wall, before 5pm otherwise we won’t be let back on the Wall?

    Thank you very much!

    2025-08-15 at 21:45

    Reply
    • 

      Ricky 2025-08-23

      Hi Chris—love your plan! That Gubeikou → Jinshanling route with a sunset on the west side is if the timings line up. Here’s the freshest, practical answer to your two questions:

      West Gate / west section status

      The Jinshanling West Gate (Taochun Tower) is open. The scenic area announced that the West Gate officially reopened on Mar 15, 2025, after which entry times were adjusted.

      Note there was a temporary full-park closure due to heavy rain on Jul 27, but the park reopened on Aug 8, 2025 (routes like Zhuanduokou, Shalingkou, East Five-Window open; Houchuankou remained closed in that notice).

      Will a 5pm “close” block you if you re-enter from the west side after the military detour?
      Short answer: Yes—plan as if it will.

      Official hours currently state: Main Gate last entry 17:00 (close 18:00), and West Gate (Taochun/Taochunkou) is 09:00–16:00. After those cutoffs, rangers start clearing and won’t allow additional entry to the wall—even if you’re coming in via the detour from Gubeikou. If you reach the Jinshanling boundary after ~16:00, you risk being stopped at the re-entry arch/checkpoint on the west end.

      The Gubeikou → Jinshanling route uses a valley detour around the military zone and rejoins the wall at the western end of Jinshanling (near the West Five-Window/Taochun area). That re-entry point is within the managed scenic area and subject to their last-entry controls.

      Sunset in Beijing in September is ~18:15–18:35, so to actually enjoy golden hour inside Jinshanling you need to be through the gate before last entry and ready to start descending when staff begin clearing.

      How I’d adjust your plan (so you still get the sunset shots):

      Option A – Start earlier from Gubeikou. Begin hiking no later than ~11:30–12:00, pace for West Gate re-entry by 15:30–16:00, then continue to West Five-Window for golden hour and descend before clearing. (Build a ~30–45 min buffer for the detour and photo stops.)

      Option B – Reverse the day. Enter Jinshanling Main Gate around 14:30–15:00, hike westward to West Five-Window for sunset light, then descend via Zhuanduokou/Shalingkou to the Main Gate by closing. This avoids the West Gate cutoff altogether. (Common strategy for sunset.)

      Option C – Keep your 13:00 Gubeikou start but skip re-entry. Enjoy late-day light from Gubeikou’s 24-Eyes / Haowang side and exit at Gubeikou instead of pushing into Jinshanling after cut-off.

      Practical tips

      Tickets: Peak-season tickets are typically ¥65; buy in advance (or at Main Gate) and carry your QR/ID—staff may check at the west boundary re-entry. (Times/prices can vary with notices.)

      Have a Plan B: Weather or ad-hoc maintenance can change access the week of your hike—Jinshanling’s notices and hotline +86-314-8830222 are the quickest way to confirm day-of.

      Safety: Bring headlamps and layers; rangers do clear the wall at closing. Don’t count on staying after clear-out for sunset—plan to be on your way down by ~18:00 unless an updated notice extends hours that week.

      2025-08-23 at 06:46

      Reply
      • 

        Chris 2025-08-28

        Hello Ricky,

        first of all thank you so much for your detailed and thoughtful reply!

        However in the meantime I have read even more worrying news: it seems like the Gubeikou section of the Great Wall has been severly damaged during the recent heavy rainfalls in the area, and is now completely closed 🙁 I’m not sure if this is true for both the Wohushan as well as the Panlongshan parts.
        Do you have any information about this that you can share here?

        If that is indeed the case, a Gubeikou-Jinshanling hike is downright impossible in any case, and we will have to settle for “just” the Jinshanling section. Which is nice too, but it would be really sad if the Gubeikou section as we know it has disappeared…

        Hope you have some better information about this!

        2025-08-28 at 17:51

        Reply
20. 

    Céline 2026-02-23

    Hi RICKY
    How is the Gubeikou to Jinshanling hike now ? I would like to do it in April but I cannot find any information..Is it open again?
    Thanks for your help!

    2026-02-23 at 05:41

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    • 

      Ricky 2026-02-23

      Hi Céline,

      Yes — it’s open daily now, no problem, and people are still hiking at Gubeikou regularly (there are recent trip reports and photos online).

      If you tell me your date in April and where you’ll be staying in Beijing, I can suggest the best start time and a smooth plan for the day.

      Thanks!
      Ricky

      2026-02-23 at 07:48

      Reply
21. 

    Edgar 2026-03-21

    Hi! I’m planning to hike Gubeikou → Jinshanling on March 24th and this guide has been super helpful — thank you!
    I just wanted to check: is the route still accessible as of early 2026? I’ve seen mentions of partial closures due to military restrictions and storm damage. Has anyone done this recently and can confirm the trail is open?
    Appreciate any update!

    2026-03-21 at 10:36

    Reply
    • 

      Ricky 2026-03-22

      Hi Edgar! Thanks so much for your message, and I’m really glad the guide was helpful.

      From what I’ve found, the Gubeikou → Jinshanling route is still generally doable in early 2026, but not as a fully continuous on-the-wall hike. The section beyond 24-Window Tower is still affected by military restrictions, so hikers normally need to leave the wall and take the valley/farmland detour before rejoining toward Jinshanling. I also saw references to earlier storm damage, which seems to be part of the reason some sources mark it as only partially open. Jinshanling itself appears to be open.

      So the safest way to describe it is: yes, the hike is still accessible, but in a modified form with an off-wall detour rather than the original uninterrupted wall-to-wall route.

      2026-03-22 at 12:20

      Reply
22. 

    Leandro 2026-03-29

    Hi Ricky! In first place let me thank you for this outstanding and clear guide which helped me a lot. I’d like to ask you a couple of questions in order to end my planning for this hike. I’m going on monday 6 of April, I’ve read in another sources that between April and October there’s a bus connecting Beijing and Jinshanling, running on weekends and public holidays. I understand the 6 of April is a public holiday in China, do you think the bus will be available? If I’m not wrong, the bus back to Beijing departs 16 from Jinshanling parking (I think close to the main gate).

    My 2nd and last concern is about the detour because of the military area. The part when you climb back to the wall after the hilly trail is clear enough? Or is it possible to continue walking and miss it?

    Thanks again for this guide, I’ll surely check the rest of the website!

    2026-03-29 at 05:08

    Reply
    • 

      Ricky 2026-03-29

      Hi Leandro! Glad the guide helped — and yes, your reading of it is basically right.

      April 6, 2026 is part of the Qingming/Tomb-Sweeping holiday period in China, and official holiday notices list April 6 as a public holiday, with some notices showing the holiday stretch as April 4–6.

      For the Jinshanling bus, the best current public info I found says this holiday/weekend line runs on weekends and public holidays, departing Beijing at 8:00 AM from Dongzhimen Wai and returning from Jinshanling at 4:00 PM. A couple of current travel references say the return is from the same drop-off/parking area near the main gate. So based on what’s published, I’d expect the bus to run on Monday, April 6, and yes, the return is around 16:00.

      That said, I did not find a fresh operator notice specifically saying “the April 6, 2026 bus is confirmed,” so I’d treat it as very likely, but not 100% guaranteed until the day before.

      On your second question: I would not count on the detour being foolproof without a map/GPX. One current guide says the hilly trail around the military zone is hard to follow and that there are no signs for the detour, while another source says hikers have seen red-dot markings and found it clear enough. In other words: many people make it fine, but it is definitely possible to walk past the right turn or hesitate at the re-entry point if you are not watching carefully.

      My honest take:

      Bus: probably yes on April 6.
      16:00 return: yes, that matches the sources I found.
      Detour: doable, but bring an offline map or GPX and do not rely only on “the path will obviously reveal itself.”

      A small practical note: one current guide says the detour rejoins Jinshanling near the western end of the scenic area and that re-entry is subject to Jinshanling’s last-entry controls, so don’t start too late.

      2026-03-29 at 08:40

      Reply
      • 

        Leandro 2026-04-01

        Thanks for such a detailed response, Ricky. You’re great! I’ll be in Beijing from April 4th so on site I’ll try to confirm if the bus will operate, just in case I’m booking the train back from Gubeikou. Regarding the GPX, I already downloaded one.

        Thanks again for your help!

        2026-04-01 at 13:49

        Reply
        • 

          Ricky 2026-04-01

          You’re very welcome, and thank you for your kind message.

          That sounds like a good plan. Once you are in Beijing, you can check on site whether the bus is running and then decide about the train back from Gubeikou accordingly.

          Great as well that you already downloaded the GPX file.

          Wishing you a wonderful hike, and please feel free to message me anytime if you need any further help while you are in Beijing.

          Best regards,
          Ricky

          2026-04-01 at 14:14

          Reply
23. 

    Anders 2026-04-08

    Hi Ricky,

    Thanks for a very comprehensive guide. We are two adults planning on hiking from Jinshanling to Gubeikou in the labor day weekend. We will start early in the morning from Jinshanling (staying there the night before), so we can start early morning when the main entrance opens up.

    We have bought tickets called “Jinshanling great wall single tickets” valid in the period 1st of April 2026 to 31st of October 2026 via GetYourGuide. Do we need an additional ticket for the Gubeikou part of the wall? If so, can we buy that when we reach the Gubeikou part of the wall, or do we need to buy it in advance as well?

    Thanks for your help and best regards,
    – Anders

    2026-04-08 at 18:59

    Reply
    • 

      Ricky 2026-04-08

      Hello Anders,

      It is wonderful that you are planning to hike from Jinshanling to Gubeikou! Starting early in the morning will give you the best experience of this magnificent stretch of the wall.

      To answer your questions:

      Do we need an additional ticket for the Gubeikou part of the wall?
      Yes, you will need a separate ticket for the Gubeikou section. The “Jinshanling great wall single tickets” you purchased are only valid for the Jinshanling Great Wall scenic area.

      Gubeikou is a distinct section of the Great Wall, and the entrance fee for it is not included in your Jinshanling ticket.

      Can we buy that when we reach the Gubeikou part of the wall, or do we need to buy it in advance?
      You can buy the Gubeikou ticket when you reach that section of the wall. There is a ticket checkpoint or entrance point between the two sections where a staff member will check for a ticket. If you do not have one, you can purchase it right there from them. Based on common traveler reports, they may require you to pay using mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay or Alipay. It is highly recommended to have these apps set up and ready to use before your hike, just in case they do not accept cash.

      Key Things to Keep in Mind for Your Hike:
      Detour Around Military Area: There is a section on this hiking route where you cannot continue along the wall because it passes through a military restriction area. You will see clear detour signs (often in pink) on the wall and the surrounding path. These signs will guide you to go down the mountain to bypass the restricted area and then climb back up to rejoin the wall. The detour takes about an hour and will bring you to the Gubeikou (Panlongshan) section entrance point, which is where you will need to buy your Gubeikou ticket.

      Payment Methods: As mentioned, be prepared to use mobile payments for tickets and any other small purchases you might need to make during the hike.

      Supplies: This is a long and challenging hike. Make sure to carry enough water and food, as there are not many places to buy supplies once you are on the wall.

      Time and Fitness: The hike from Jinshanling to Gubeikou (including the detour) typically takes about 4 to 6 hours depending on your pace and the number of breaks you take. It requires a good level of physical fitness and appropriate hiking footwear.

      I hope you have an absolutely incredible and memorable hike! Enjoy the stunning views and the history of this remarkable place. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.

      Best regards,

      Ricky

      2026-04-08 at 19:21

      Reply
      • 

        Anders 2026-04-08

        Thank you very much for a very comprehensive and great answer, Ricky. It is much appreciated 🙂

        Best regards,
        – Anders

        2026-04-08 at 19:26

        Reply
24. 

    Sharon 2026-06-27

    Hello!
    I am thinking of hiking from Gubeikou North Gate to Jinshanling East Five-Window Tower and catching the sunset there in early September. Will I be able to stay on the wall until sunset, and would I be still be able to exit the wall on Jinshanling?

    2026-06-27 at 09:18

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    • 

      Ricky 2026-06-27

      Hi, Sharon, In early September, I would not recommend planning to exit from the Jinshanling East Gate after sunset.

      The East Gate near the East Five-Window Tower usually closes early, around 5:00 PM, which is before sunset at that time of year. So if you hike from Gubeikou North Gate to Jinshanling East Five-Window Tower and want to stay for sunset, you would need to walk back along the wall toward the main Jinshanling entrance / Zhuanduokou Tower area, where it is usually possible to exit after sunset.

      So in short: yes, you can enjoy the sunset on Jinshanling, but you should not rely on the East Gate exit after sunset. Please allow enough time to walk back to the main gate safely, and bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case.

      2026-06-27 at 09:45

      Reply
25. 

    Steven 2026-09-12

    Hey Ricky! Thanks for a very informative write up. I was planning to hike Gubeikou to Jinshanling and then take the train from Gubeiko back to Beijingbei @1720. How do I ensure that the taxi driver takes me to Gubeiko Panlongshan to start the hike instead of Jinshanling. Also, the military detour has me a little concerned, any tips to ensure I don’t get lost? Thank you!

    2026-09-12 at 01:22

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    • 

      Ricky 2026-09-12

      Hi! Steven— glad you found the write-up helpful.

      Yes, your plan is possible, but there are two things I’d be especially careful with: **the exact Panlongshan drop-off point and the 17:20 train timing**.

      For the taxi/Didi driver, don’t just say “Gubeikou Great Wall,” because that can be misunderstood. Show the driver this Chinese:

      **古北口蟠龙山长城北门**
      **请送我到蟠龙山长城入口，不是金山岭长城。**
      “Please take me to the Panlongshan Great Wall entrance, not Jinshanling.”

      Panlongshan is the correct Gubeikou section for starting the classic hike toward Jinshanling. The usual route is **Panlongshan → General Tower → 24-Eye Tower → military-area detour → Jinshanling**.

      For the military detour, your concern is reasonable. When you reach the **24-Eye Tower**, do **not** continue straight along the Wall into the restricted area. You need to leave the Wall and follow the valley/farm-track detour before climbing back toward Jinshanling. Recent hikers report trail markings such as pink dots, but I would **not rely only on painted markings**, as these can change. Download an offline GPX track before you leave and keep your phone well charged. ([Great Wall of China Travel Guide][1])

      The other thing I’d watch carefully is your **17:20 train from Gubeikou Station**. That train is currently scheduled to reach Beijing North at about **19:52**. The complete Gubeikou–Jinshanling traverse is generally quoted at around **15–16 km and roughly 5–8 hours**, depending on pace and exactly where you enter/exit. So I would try to be off Jinshanling by around **16:00 at the latest** and have transportation back to Gubeikou Station arranged beforehand rather than hoping to find a taxi at the last minute. Jinshanling is roughly 12 km from Gubeikou, but local taxis are not always waiting there.

      If you’re hiking independently, I’d say the **military detour is the one section where having a GPX route really matters**. The Great Wall itself is fairly obvious; the countryside detour is where people are much more likely to take the wrong path.

      Hope that helps — it’s a fantastic hike, especially once you transition from the unrestored Gubeikou section into Jinshanling. Just give yourself a little more time than you think you’ll need, particularly with that 17:20 train.

      2026-09-12 at 07:58

      Reply

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