Why Book This Tour
- Experience vast contrasts of hiking from wild Jiankou to restored Mutianyu.
- Be totally amazed by Jiankou Tower.
- Enjoy the incredible and spectacular views from Zhengbeikou Tower.
- Pass through towering Ox Horn Edge.
- Keep away from the masses and try this classic hike in very small groups.
- A unique and authentic insight into the Great Wall.
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Full itinerary
Full Itinerary:
Trip review:
- Xizhazi village to Zhengbeilou tower (approx. 1-hour ascent);
- Zhengleilou Tower to Ox Horn Edge (approx. 40 minutes);
- Make a detour at Ox Horn Edge West then head back to the Wall (approx. 10 minutes)
- Ox Horn Edge East to Tower 23 of Mutianyu (approx. 40 minutes)
- Tower 23 of Mutianyu to Tower 14 (approx. 1.5 hours)
- At Tower 14 take the cable car down to the exit (optional / approx. 8-minute ride)
- Walk down from Tower 14 to Tower 10, then continue to walk down the hilly trail to the exit (optional/approx. 1.5 hours)
- Walk down from Tower 14 to Tower 6, then go down by toboggan /chair lift (optional / approx. 1.5 hours)
- Mutianyu shuttle bus to the parking lot (approx. 10 minutes ride)
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure to the stunning Jiankou and Mutianyu!
Whether you prefer an early 7:30 am start or a time that suits you better, we’ll pick you up right at your accommodation.
Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Xizhazi village, situated at an impressive 587m (1926ft) above sea level.
The hike commences with a rewarding ascent to the ruined tower of Zhengbeilou, perched at 830m (2723ft) above sea level.
Along the way, make sure to pause and soak in the breathtaking views of Jiankou’s landscape, some of the best scenery you’ll ever witness!
After a well-deserved break, press on to Zhengbeikou.
Reaching the top is a triumph, as the challenging part of the hike is now behind you.
Here, a spectacular panorama of Jiankou and the unspoiled nature of the Jiankou basin await your admiration.
Next, prepare yourself for an exhilarating eastward trek to Mutianyu.
The path offers unique experiences like vertical climbs, exciting scrambles, and a walk along the very edge of overgrown bushes, providing a thrilling sense of adventure!
Your exploration will lead you through many fascinating towers to the Ox Horn Edge, a remarkable section standing at 1011m (3317ft) above sea level.
Its ox horn shape adds to its charm! A brief forest detour past a secluded campsite offers a delightful 10-minute walk through the bush, connecting you with nature before rejoining the Jiankou trail.
Soon after, you’ll reach the fully restored Mutianyu, featuring a must-try summer toboggan run.
Open from 8 am to 5 pm in the summer season, this exhilarating ride takes you down a series of zigzag bends, with an altitude drop of 100m (328ft).
For only 60RMB during the tourist season, you can enjoy a hilarious ride that’s as fast or as leisurely as you like.
Your adventure at Mutianyu’s Tower 14 offers three exciting choices to continue the journey:
- Ride the Cable Car: A relaxing 8-minute cable car ride takes you down from tower 14 to the exit. Just sit back and enjoy the view!
- Explore on Foot: Prefer to keep hiking? Walk down from tower 14 to tower 10, and then follow the hill trail to reach the exit. This usually takes around 1.5 hours and offers a unique perspective of the area.
- Extra Hiking and Toboggan/Lift Chair Fun: If you’re up for more adventure, keep walking until you reach tower 6, then enjoy a thrilling toboggan or lift chair ride down. Don’t worry, the track is easy to follow, and your guide will meet you at the exit so you can savor the additional hike on your own.
Bonus Opportunities: From Mutianyu, consider visiting the Ming Tomb (approx. 1-hour drive) or the Summer Palace (approx. 1.5-hour drive) if an early 7 AM departure from Beijing suits you.
It’s the perfect season to explore these places from April to October. Just reach out to us, and we’ll craft the perfect itinerary for you at the best price.
Looking for Flexibility and Budget Options? Choose the semi self-guided version of our guided trip.
It costs less but still offers the support and convenience you need to explore at your leisure.
Since you’re not paying for a guide, we can keep the price low, giving you the freedom and flexibility to walk on your own without worrying about the logistics.
Plus, don’t forget to download our Free Ebook: “Great Wall of China Visitor’s Quick Guide” (PDF).
Whether it’s the thrill of the guided tour or the freedom of the semi self-guided option, we have something just for you.
Our tours cater to all tastes and budgets, and we’re always here to answer your questions.
Feel free to contact us for any queries, and let’s make your Great Wall adventure a memory to cherish!
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Map the tour/Videos
Map the tour/Videos:
