Mutianyu Great Wall 5-KM Premium Hike Covering All Landmarks

Visiting the Great Wall of China is a bucket-list experience for many travelers, but not all tours are created equal. This particular tour, the Mutianyu Great Wall 5-KM Premium Hike, promises a more authentic, less crowded, and physically engaging way to experience one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. From visiting all 20 watchtowers to secret vantage points, it offers a unique perspective that regular sightseeing trips often miss.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get a guided walk covering all the watchtowers along the 5 km route, rather than just a quick snapshot from the main tourist section. Second, the tour involves original pathways and unrestored sections—perfect for those craving a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-path exploration. Third, the expert guide brings history to life and takes you to secret viewpoints, perfect for capturing crowd-free photos. The only snag? This tour is quite physically demanding, so it’s best suited for active travelers in good shape.

If you’re after a more relaxed experience, or traveling with small children or those less inclined to hike steep or uneven terrain, this might feel a bit challenging. Nevertheless, for those hungry for authentic scenery and a sense of discovery, this tour hits all the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Walk original pathways and visit unrestored parts of the Wall.
• All landmarks covered: Pass through all 20 watchtowers during the 5 km trek.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides lead the way, sharing insights and secret viewpoints.
• Crowd-free photos: Discover hidden spots away from tourist crowds.
• Physical activity: Proper hiking shoes and good fitness are recommended for this active tour.
• Flexible options: You can purchase additional upgrades, like cable cars, for added convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Mutianyu Great Wall Premium Hike

How the Tour Begins and What to Expect at the Start

The journey kicks off at 8:00 AM, with a comfortable bus ride from a convenient meeting point near Dongzhimen Station in Beijing. The scenic drive sets the tone for an adventure that feels more like a day of exploration than just a sightseeing trip. Once at Mutianyu, you’ll start your 5 km hiking journey around 9:30 AM, led by a guide who’s passionate about Chinese history and the Wall’s secrets.

Why This Tour Is Different From Standard Visits

Many visitors stick to the main sections of the Wall, often crowded and heavily restored. This tour, however, is designed for those craving authenticity and physical activity. You’ll climb through original pathways, passing all 20 watchtowers, and exploring less restored sections that are steep, uneven, and covered in grass and bushes. A reviewer described it as “a fairly short section of the main tourist wall passing the General’s Tower among a couple of others, then branching off onto the longer secret section,” which offers a higher vantage point and unbeatable photo ops.

The Highlights of the Walk

The trail takes you from the bottom of the mountain to the top, including a visit to the “Hero Tower”, where panoramic views stretch across the landscape. During the walk, your guide, like Taka, may lead you along “secret” paths that few travelers see, providing a sense of discovery and peace away from the crowds.

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Secret Viewpoints and Photo Opportunities

Many reviewers highlighted the crowd-free spots they visited thanks to the guide’s local knowledge. One reviewer called it a “truly unique adventure,” emphasizing that these hidden viewpoints are worth the extra effort. From these vantage points, you can capture sweeping shots of the Wall snaking through lush mountains, especially during different seasons when the scenery changes dramatically.

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

While the tour package includes entrance tickets and internal shuttle rides, some reviews mention an additional 150 RMB (around $22 USD) fee for a cable car ride or access to the less touristy sections of the Wall. This extra cost enables you to reach higher points or descend more easily—a worthwhile upgrade if you’re comfortable with the extra expense. Keep in mind, the cable car alone costs about 100 RMB if you decide to ride it on your own.

Lunch and Rest Period

Around 2:00 PM, the group recharges with a rural-style buffet lunch at the Mubus Great Wall Restaurant. Reviewers rave about the varied, hearty options and the chance to relax after several hours of hiking. Some mention that the lunch exceeded expectations and was a perfect ending to a physically demanding day.

Return Journey and End of the Tour

Post-lunch, you’ll board the bus at 3:00 PM to head back to Beijing, arriving around 5:00 PM. The entire experience is about 9 hours, balancing physical activity with scenic relaxation and cultural insight.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviewers mention Taka, the guide, as a highlight—his knowledge, attentiveness, and ability to find “secret” locations elevate the experience. One said, “He was kind and attentive, leading us along the ‘secret’ path, giving us a truly unique adventure.” The emphasis on small group size and personalized attention makes the tour feel intimate and special.

Travelers also appreciate that the tour is more challenging than typical visits, with some steep and slippery sections. One reviewer noted that “the walk was easy to do” but still physically demanding, so good footwear and a decent fitness level are key. Others pointed out that visiting unrestored sections offers a unique chance to see the Wall’s rugged, original state, which is rare in tourist-heavy areas.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Tourists mention local insights and hidden spots that aren’t on standard itineraries. One traveler delighted in wading through grass and bushes to reach untouched parts of the Wall, describing it as “completely worth the effort.” Several reviews highlight the quiet, crowd-free environment as a major perk, especially during busy travel seasons.

Additional Tips from Reviewers

Some mention additional costs like the RMB 150 fee for access to certain sections or cable cars, which is not included in the basic price. Be sure to clarify with your guide about these options and decide if they’re worth the extra expense. Also, reviewers advise arriving in good physical condition, as some sections are steep and slippery.

Practical Details and Tips

• Pricing: At $66 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the included transportation, guide, entrance fees, and lunch. The extra costs for optional upgrades are reasonable given the exclusivity and adventure.
• Best suited for: Active travelers, history buffs, and those keen to see a less commercialized, more scenic part of the Wall.
• What to bring: Proper hiking shoes, water, sun protection, and your passport for check-in.
• Weather considerations: Heavy rain or strong winds could lead to cancellation for safety reasons.
• Meeting point: Subway Line 2 Dongzhimen Station Exit B1, with easy taxi access by showing the address.
• Duration: Approximately 9 hours from start to finish, including transport, hiking, lunch, and return.

Final Thoughts

This Mutianyu Great Wall 5-KM Premium Hike offers a compelling choice for those wanting more than just a quick photo op. The guided route to all 20 watchtowers and secret viewpoints provides a personal, authentic experience that many visitors never get. While it requires a decent level of fitness and willingness to trek uneven terrain, the payoff is extraordinary views and a sense of discovery.

If you’re craving a more adventurous, less touristy side of the Great Wall, this tour checks all boxes. It’s especially perfect for travelers who appreciate guided insights, stunning scenery, and a chance to see the Wall’s rugged, original sections.

For anyone looking to combine physical activity with cultural depth and unique photo opportunities, this tour offers an excellent balance of value and authentic experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for active travelers and involves substantial walking and hiking on uneven terrain, so it’s not suitable for children under 12.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
While no special gear is provided, proper hiking shoes and water are recommended to handle the steep and sometimes slippery sections.

Can I upgrade with a cable car?
Yes, you can purchase an additional ticket (about 100 RMB) for the cable car if you’d like to descend more easily or reach higher viewpoints.

What if I can’t walk long distances?
This tour involves a solid 5 km walk with some steep parts, so it’s best suited for those in good physical condition.

Are meals included?
Yes, a rural-style buffet lunch is included, with options praised for their variety and quality.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The scenery varies greatly with seasons; spring and autumn are especially beautiful, but check weather conditions as heavy rain or wind can cause cancellations.

How early should I arrive for the meeting point?
Plan to arrive at the subway station by 7:50 AM to ensure a smooth start.

Is this a small group tour?
While the exact size isn’t specified, reviews indicate a personalized experience with attentive guides, often just a small group.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If heavy rain or strong winds occur, the tour may be canceled for safety reasons, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund if canceled beforehand.

This guided hike along Mutianyu’s less crowded, unrestored sections offers a rare chance to see the Wall in its rugged, authentic state, with expert guidance and stunning scenery at every turn. Perfect for adventurous spirits and history enthusiasts alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: