10 Best Tours & Experiences In Chengde (With Prices)

Chengde is a city that offers more than just its famous summer palaces. It’s a place where historic sections of the Great Wall, famous landmarks in Beijing, and less-trodden routes come together to provide travelers with a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re interested in hiking untouched parts of the Great Wall, exploring imperial sites, or enjoying private tours, Chengde’s tours bring these attractions to life in authentic and memorable ways. One of our favorites is the Beijing: Jinshanling Gt Wall Trip, which offers a quieter, more scenic walk along one of China’s most beautiful sections of the Wall with minimal crowds. It’s operated by ZANBUS, ensuring comfort and reliability, and is perfect for those seeking an authentic Great Wall experience away from the tourist crowds.

If you want to maximize your time, the Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City Tour is a fantastic choice for a quick yet enriching visit to Beijing’s most iconic sites, guided by experts who will share insights into their history. For a more active adventure, the Great Wall Hiking Tour from Jiankou to Mutianyu combines trekking across unrestored wild sections with a fully restored area, providing a deep dive into the Wall’s diverse landscapes. And for those who want a truly unique experience, the Great Wall Camping Tour lets you spend a night beside the ancient stones, waking up to sunrise views few travelers get to see. These tours highlight Chengde’s variety—whether you’re seeking culture, outdoor adventure, or relaxing luxury.

Quick Overview

In this list, we cover half-day tours like the Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City that give a snapshot of Beijing’s highlights, as well as full-day excursions such as the Gubeikou and Jinshanling Great Wall Hike for those wanting more depth. For adventure lovers, the Great Wall Camping Tour offers a multi-day journey with overnight camping (more details here), while the Jinshanling Small-Group Secret Adventure keeps the experience intimate and peaceful. And for travelers who want flexibility, the Mutianyu Great Wall Private Self-guided Tour by Car provides a customizable day exploring at your own pace.

1. Beijing: Jinshanling Gt Wall Trip, Depart 7:30 Bus w/ Ticket

At number 1, this Jinshanling Great Wall tour offers a rare chance to walk along a section with few visitors and breathtaking views. Operated by the trusted brand ZANBUS, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free day with door-to-door pickup and a comfortable coach ride. The tour includes about 5.5 hours of self-guided exploration, allowing you to hike, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery without a crowd. The Jinshanling section is renowned for its well-preserved battlements and mountain vistas, making it a favorite for photographers and adventurers alike.

What makes this tour stand out is its affordable price of $43 per person for a full day of exploration. The meeting point is centrally located, with easy access via subway or taxi, and the service is reliable. Reviews highlight the authenticity and tranquility of the experience, with one saying, “This was the most authentic part of the Great Wall I’ve seen.” It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, yet independent, experience of one of China’s most scenic sections.

Bottom line: If you seek an authentic, uncrowded walk on the Great Wall with excellent value, this trip is hard to beat.

2. Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City Tour with Entry Tickets

Number 2 on our list is a short but comprehensive visit to Beijing’s most iconic sites. This small-group tour combines a walk through Tiananmen Square, where you’ll see the Monument to the People’s Heroes and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum, with an inside tour of the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City. The tour offers in-depth commentary by a professional guide, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want to understand the significance behind each monument and palace.

The tour includes entry tickets, so you skip long lines and maximize your time. At just 3 hours, it’s perfect for travelers tight on time but eager to see the essentials. Reviews are glowing, with one calling it “the perfect quick immersion into China’s imperial history.” It’s a great choice if you want a guided overview of Beijing’s top attractions without the hassle of planning tickets or navigating alone.

Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for a brief, insightful visit to two of Beijing’s most famous sites, especially for history buffs and first-timers.

3. Beijing: Great Wall Hiking Tour from Jiankou to Mutianyu

Number 3 is an adventurous hiking tour that covers both the wild, unrestored Jiankou section and the fully restored Mutianyu part of the Great Wall. For around $254, you get an immersive day that combines the rugged beauty of the untouched Jiankou, famous for its steep ascents and dramatic scenery, with the more tourist-friendly Mutianyu. The tour includes transportation, guided hikes, and a delicious local lunch.

What makes this tour special is the contrast: you’ll step into the “wild” China, where the wall has a rugged, ancient feel, and then walk the more accessible, picturesque Mutianyu. The guide shares insights about the wall’s history during the hike, helping you appreciate both the architectural marvel and its strategic importance. Reviewers mention “the guide’s knowledge and the stunning scenery made it unforgettable.” It’s best suited for those physically prepared for a full day of walking and climbing.

Bottom line: For those seeking a combination of adventurous exploration and beautiful scenery, this hike provides a meaningful, well-guided experience.

4. Great Wall Camping Tour

Number 4 offers an overnight experience beside the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, rated 5/5 by recent travelers. This tour is a rare chance to camp at the foot of the Wall, witnessing the sunrise and sunset from this historic site. The tour includes camping beside the ancient stones, enjoying a local BBQ, and experiencing the tranquility of the Wall in a way few travelers ever do.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of adventure and serenity. The host’s attention to detail is evident in reviews praising the guide Amber’s thoughtfulness and the “10/10” experience. Guests get to walk multiple sections of the Wall with minimal people, and the overnight camping provides a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a unique, immersive experience.

While pricier at $506, this tour delivers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to sleep beside one of China’s most famous landmarks. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with camping and looking for genuine solitude.

Bottom line: If you’re after a deep, tranquil connection with the Wall, this multi-day camping trip is hard to beat.

5. Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Private Self-guided Tour by Car

Number 5 is perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility and independence. This private tour offers a worry-free trip with hotel pickup and drop-off, giving you the freedom to explore the Mutianyu section at your own pace. Costing around $92 per person, it’s an affordable way to avoid crowded buses and enjoy a tailored experience.

This tour is best suited for those who want to set their own schedule, perhaps spending more time at specific watchtowers or hiking routes. The guide’s role is minimal, but the convenience and comfort make it worthwhile. The tour’s value lies in customization and comfort, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family who appreciates privacy.

Because reviews aren’t provided, it’s important to clarify expectations upfront. It’s ideal for travelers who know what they want to see and don’t mind taking control of their itinerary.

Bottom line: For independent explorers willing to organize their own adventure, this private self-guided tour offers flexibility and comfort.

6. Beijing: Gubeikou and Jinshanling Great Wall Hike

Number 6 combines two less commercialized sections of the Great Wall—Gubeikou and Jinshanling—for a full-day guided hike. Starting from Beijing, you’ll enjoy the peacefulness of the Gubeikou area, known for its quiet, untouched landscape, then move on to Jinshanling to capture stunning photos of its well-preserved battlements.

The tour includes 2.5 hours at Gubeikou and 3 hours at Jinshanling, with a break for lunch. It’s designed for hikers who want to experience diverse scenery and fewer crowds. The itinerary offers a deep dive into the wall’s architecture and history, with an English-speaking guide offering insights during the hikes. Travelers describe the experience as “feeling like a true explorer,” thanks to the tranquility and scenic views.

This tour is perfect for fit travelers who want an active day combining adventure and cultural discovery. It’s a longer, more comprehensive way to see the Great Wall beyond the typical tourist hotspots.

Bottom line: Ideal for hikers craving quiet, scenic spots and a meaningful walk through history.

7. Beijing Jinshanling Great Wall Small-Group Secret Adventure

Number 7 takes you on a small-group exploration of Jinshanling, with fewer than 20 travelers. This tour offers a peaceful, intimate journey through well-preserved battlements and watchtowers, avoiding tourist crowds. The round-trip transport, entrance tickets, and shuttle bus are included, making logistics simple.

The focus here is on discovering Jinshanling’s scenic mountain vistas and historic watchtowers in a quiet, guided setting. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photographs. Reviewers note the serenity of the experience and the beauty of the well-maintained structures. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a more relaxed, less crowded tour with friendly guidance.

Bottom line: If you prefer a small-group, peaceful visit to one of the most scenic parts of the wall, this tour delivers.

8. From Ruins to Legends: A Story-Led Great Wall Experience

Number 8 is a story-driven tour that combines hiking and storytelling. You’ll explore a wild, unrestored section of the Wall at Gubeikou, then walk the more restored Jinshanling, with a narrative focus that adds depth and color to your experience. The tour includes 2.5 hours at Gubeikou and 2 hours at Jinshanling, with a small-group atmosphere and a live English guide.

This tour emphasizes the stories behind the Wall, making it engaging for travelers interested in history, architecture, and folklore. The hike involves rugged paths, suited for those with a moderate fitness level. Travelers have praised the storytelling approach that makes the history come alive, offering a more immersive experience than standard sightseeing.

Bottom line: Perfect for curious travelers who want to connect emotionally and intellectually with the Wall’s past.

9. Beijing: Jinshanling Great Wall Direct Entry Ticket

At number 9, this direct-entry ticket provides instant access to Jinshanling—skip the line, swipe your passport, and start exploring. It’s a simple, no-fuss option for travelers confident in their planning. The section features a mix of restored and wild architecture, with stunning watchtowers and steep gradients.

This ticket is ideal for independent travelers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy the Wall at their own pace. The hike from Zhuanduokou to the East Five-Window Tower offers a satisfying trek for those comfortable with walking. Reviewers value the ease of entry and the chance to explore this less crowded, authentic part of the Wall.

Bottom line: Best for confident explorers seeking hassle-free access to Jinshanling’s scenic and historic sites.

10. Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Private Tour

Rounding out our list is a luxurious, private experience combining the Mutianyu Great Wall with the Summer Palace. This 9-hour tour is perfect for travelers wanting to see two iconic sites in one day with personalized service. It includes a visit to the Olympic Stadium, a tea tasting experience, and the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful gardens and pavilions of the Summer Palace.

Rated 4.9/5, this tour is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, private experience with flexible timing. It’s particularly suited for families or couples who want a rundown without rushing. The early start helps beat crowds, and the tour’s tailored approach ensures you see what interests you most.

Bottom line: For a comfortable, private day exploring top sites, this tour offers great value and convenience.

How to Choose

Choosing the right tour in Chengde depends on your interests, fitness level, budget, and time constraints. If you’re after authentic, less crowded Great Wall experiences, tours like the Jinshanling Gt Wall Trip or the Great Wall Camping Tour are excellent. For those wanting a quick cultural overview, the Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City is ideal. Adventure seekers should consider the Jiankou to Mutianyu hike, while travelers craving flexibility might prefer the Self-guided private tour.

Book early, especially for popular tours or those with limited capacity, to secure your spot. Think about whether you want an independent exploration, a small-group guided experience, or an overnight adventure—each option offers something unique.

Final Thoughts

Chengde and the surrounding area provide a wealth of diverse tours and experiences suited to different interests and activity levels. For a peaceful walk, the Jinshanling section stands out, while for immersive storytelling, the Story-Led Great Wall is unbeatable. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Great Wall Camping Tour promises an unforgettable night under the stars. Budget travelers may prefer the direct entry tickets, while those seeking a luxurious day can enjoy the private Mutianyu and Summer Palace Tour.

Whatever your style, these tours help you experience the history, beauty, and authenticity of the Great Wall and Beijing’s landmarks. Be sure to consider your priorities and book early—these experiences tend to fill up quickly. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to come away with stories to tell and memories to cherish.