The Great Wall of China isn’t just one of the most iconic landmarks in Asia, it's one of the most awe-inspiring feats of human engineering the world has ever seen. Stretching thousands of kilometres across northern China, this ancient fortification continues to captivate millions of travellers each year.

As one of the world’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Great Wall of China weaves through mountains and myths alike. It's not just a landmark, it’s a chapter of history you can hike, with every brick echoing tales of empires and endurance.

You're free to explore its past, admire the engineering, or just take in the views. Read on to discover everything you need to know before setting foot on this monumental marvel.

The Great Wall’s story dates back over 2,000 years. It was initially built by various warring states as early as the 7th century BC, and later unified under Emperor Qin Shi Huang during the Qin Dynasty to defend against northern invasions.

The Wall was expanded and fortified during the Han and Ming Dynasties, with the Ming period contributing most of the surviving structure we see today. Over time, the Wall evolved from a military defence line into a symbol of Chinese strength and national identity.

The Great Wall stretches over 21,000 km, constructed from stone, bricks, tamped earth, and wood — depending on the region. Its impressive length winds across deserts, mountains, grasslands, and plateaus.

Key features include watchtowers, beacon towers, and fortresses strategically placed for signalling and defence. Restoring and maintaining such an enormous structure has proven challenging, with only certain sections now fully preserved and open to visitors.

The Great Wall is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, but not everything you’ve heard about it is true — for instance, it’s a myth that the Wall can be seen from space with the naked eye. While it’s incredibly long and impressive, astronauts have confirmed that it's no more visible than a regular road when viewed from orbit.

Stretching across mountains, deserts, and grasslands, the Wall wasn’t built in a single era. It took centuries and the labour of millions — including soldiers, peasants, and prisoners — to construct the various sections that make up the Wall we know today. Each dynasty added its own touch, turning it into a historical patchwork.

While many tourists flock to popular spots like Badaling, the Wall has lesser-known sections such as Jiankou, which remains rugged and largely unrestored. These parts are perfect for adventurous travellers seeking dramatic landscapes and fewer crowds — offering a glimpse of the Wall in its raw, untouched glory.

This is the most visited and well-preserved section of the Wall, popular with both domestic and international tourists. It features wide walkways, safety railings, and restored watchtowers.

Easily reachable from central Beijing (about 1.5 hours by car or train), it's the most convenient option for day-trippers and is also wheelchair-accessible, making it great for families or elderly travellers.

Located about 1.5–2 hours from Beijing, Mutianyu is known for its picturesque scenery with dense forested hills — especially beautiful in spring and autumn.

It offers a cable car, chairlift, and even a toboggan slide for a fun descent. It's less crowded than Badaling, allowing for a more relaxed experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

This section is a favourite for serious hikers, offering a 5–6 km trail with sweeping vistas of mountains and untouched landscapes. The hike takes 2–4 hours depending on pace.

Jinshanling is partially restored while Simatai retains a more weathered look, giving visitors a sense of how the Wall might have appeared centuries ago. This area is also great for sunrise and sunset views.

Often considered the most dramatic and photogenic part of the Wall, Jiankou features steep inclines, crumbling watchtowers, and sharp ridgelines.

It's a favourite among photographers. Because it’s completely unrestored, this section is recommended only for experienced hikers with proper gear. It’s technically “wild” wall, so safety and weather conditions should be carefully considered before visiting.

The best seasons are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is cool and visibility is high. Avoid public holidays like Golden Week (early October) to skip the crowds.

In winter, the snow-covered Wall is stunning but slippery, so bring proper gear. In summer, bring sun protection and plenty of water.

1. Jiadu Resort

Just 5.1km from the Great Wall, Jiadu Resort is a hidden gem that offers more than just great views. Unwind with a game of table tennis, enjoy a peaceful picnic in the garden, or sing your heart out at the karaoke lounge.

Travelling with little ones? There's babysitting available so the adults can relax while the kids are entertained. With an on-site bar and a chilled atmosphere, Jiadu combines leisure and luxury in the best way.

2. Renji Hotel

A little further out at 8.9km from the Great Wall, Renji Hotel is where stylish comfort meets playful perks. After a day of hiking and history, kick back in the game room or gather your travel crew for some karaoke fun.

There's even a lovely picnic area if you fancy an outdoor nibble with a view. Renji Hotel is perfect for travellers who want a blend of relaxation, entertainment, and easy access to one of China's most breathtaking landmarks.

1. Xinshuangquan Hostel

Located just 1.8km from the Great Wall, Xinshuangquan Hostel is a fantastic option for backpackers, budget travellers, and anyone looking to keep it simple (and fun!). Don’t let the low price tag fool you — you’ll still get extras like a game room and even karaoke to belt out your favourite tunes after a day of hiking.

It’s basic, cheerful, and perfectly placed for early-morning adventures or sunset strolls along the Wall.

2. Yueli Great Wall View Homestay

Yueli Great Wall View Homestay offers an excellent base for exploring the iconic Great Wall while enjoying the tranquillity of Yanqing. The property combines homely comfort with thoughtful amenities, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking value without sacrificing convenience. Rooms are clean and cosy, and the friendly staff ensure you feel well taken care of throughout your stay.

A highlight of this homestay is its in-house dining, where you can savour local Chinese dishes freshly prepared with care. After a day of hiking or sightseeing, returning to a warm meal and a peaceful atmosphere is a treat. With great views and a welcoming environment, Yueli Great Wall View Homestay is a top pick for budget-conscious visitors.

3. Red Sun Guesthouse

Located in the picturesque Huairou district, Red Sun Guesthouse is a charming and affordable option for those wanting to explore the nearby Great Wall sections, including Mutianyu. It offers simple yet comfortable accommodation, with all the basic facilities needed for a pleasant and restful stay. The guesthouse is known for its helpful hosts who go the extra mile to assist guests.

Dining at Red Sun Guesthouse is also a delightful experience, featuring homemade meals with authentic local flavours. If you're on a short weekend trip or an extended stay, this guesthouse combines affordability with heartfelt service, making it a smart choice for Great Wall adventurers.

1. Is the Wall visible from space? No. It’s a myth — the Wall is too narrow and blends with the land.

2. How long is the entire Wall? About 21,196 km, including all branches and ruins.

3. Can you walk the entire Wall? Yes, but it takes months. Many parts are broken or wild.

4. Which section is best for first-timers? Mutianyu — fewer crowds, great views, and easy access.

5. What is special about the Great Wall? It’s a UNESCO site, built for defence and trade. Shows ancient Chinese skill.

6. How long is it and why was it built? 21,196 km long. Built to block northern invaders like the Xiongnu.

7. What is the true story of the Wall? Built by many dynasties over 2,000 years. Ming parts are best kept.

8. Why did China build it? To defend borders, control trade, and show empire power.

The Great Wall of China is more than a landmark, it’s a living journey through ancient dynasties and breathtaking mountain views. With Traveloka, you can easily plan your trip from start to finish.

Book your flights to Beijing, reserve hotels near top Wall sections like Mutianyu or Badaling, and even secure guided tours or attraction passes, all in one app.