Mutianyu is roughly 70 km north east of Beijing in a lush rural area where 90% of the land is covered in orchards, forests and grasslands. The slightly longer drive from the capital, compared to Badaling, is well worth the effort as Mutianyu claims usually fewer crowds but displays a particularly well preserved section of the Great Wall and a more rugged mountainscape.
The Great Wall of China at Mutianyu
Erected under the Northern Qi in the mid-6th century, the wall was rebuilt by the Ming dynasty on earlier foundations. Most of what you see today dates to the second half of the 16th century.
The Mutianyu section formed part of the northern barrier designed to protect the capital and imperial tombs from marauding nomadic tribes. Snaking up and down spectacular ridges for over two kms, it connects the Juyongguan pass to the west and the Jiankou pass to the east.
Scenic spots have names that say it all, Bull’s Horn Ridge, Arrow Nock and Eagle Flying Belly Up.
Unique Features at Mutianyu Great Wall
Built mostly of granite, the Great Wall in Mutianyu is stunning, 7 to 8 metre high and 4 to 5 metre wide at the top. Unusually, it is reinforced by two perpendicular extensions designed to augment its defensive power.
Here, the Great Wall has a higher than average density of defensive towers, with 22 of them, spaced roughly 100 metres apart, over 2,25 km. This must have been quite a sight and truly intimidating for any would-be invaders.
Unlike Badaling, both the inner and outer parapets at Mutianyu have crenelations, allowing defenders to shoot arrows from either side, should an astute enemy attempt to approach from an unexpected direction.
But the most unusual structure, found on no other pass, is the Zengguantai Gate which consists of three interconnected terraced towers, with a gate allowing entrance to the Great Wall from the south.
Best Things to Do at Mutianyu
Taking the cable car up to the wall is a sensible option, saving you time and energy to enjoy what matters most, walking along the top to the highest point. Climb as far as you can but don’t forget that it will be a long way back. Expect steep slippery sections (sturdy footwear essential), plenty of steps and fabulous views across the mountains and over the plain, especially beautiful in the spring when trees are in blossom. There are towers to explore, quiet niches to rest, out of the wind, and more photo opportunities than you ever imagined.
Come down on the cable car or if you would like a shot of adrenalin, there’s a tobogan to whiz you down in next to no time.
You’ve seen the wall, you’ve walked on it, now take time to enjoy the traditional villages scattered in the valley, among chestnut and apricot trees, where descendants of the great builders still live to this day. There are farmhouses and craftshops and myriad natural springs tumbling through scented pines and orchards.
Enjoy a gentle hike through authentic rural lands and if you can manage an overnight stay, treat yourself to the most spectacular sunset, and sunrise, over the Great Wall of China.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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