FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about climbing the Badaling Great Wall.
How far is Badaling Great Wall from Beijing?
It is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) northwest of the city center. The site sits in Yanqing District. Travel times range from 20 to 90 minutes depending on your transport method.
How to get from Beijing to Badaling Great Wall?
You can take a High-Speed Train from Qinghe Railway Station. This takes 20 to 60 minutes. Alternatively, take Bus 877 from Deshengmen Bus Terminal, which takes 70 to 90 minutes. See our Train vs. Bus guide.
Can I buy Badaling tickets at the entrance?
It is not recommended. You must book online in advance using your passport details. The daily visitor limit is 65,000, and tickets regularly sell out.
How much does the Badaling Great Wall ticket cost?
Adult admission is ¥40 between April and October. It costs ¥35 between November and March. Minors under 18 and seniors aged 60+ enter for free.
Does Badaling Great Wall have a cable car?
Yes. There is a North Aerial Cable Car and a South Ground Funicular. Both cost extra and are not included in the standard admission ticket.
How long does it take to walk Badaling Great Wall?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours hiking. Hiking up to North Tower 8 takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from the base. The South Section takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Is Badaling Great Wall wheelchair accessible?
Yes, parts of it are. There is a 180-meter long accessible ramp and elevators near the North Wall. These are reachable from Wangjing Square.
What is the S2 train to the Great Wall?
The S2 is a slower, scenic commuter train that runs from Nankou to Badaling Station. It does not offer reserved seating. You must travel to Nankou first to catch it.
When is the best time of year to visit Badaling?
April, May, September, and October offer the best weather. Avoid Chinese national holidays and the peak summer travel season to limit crowd exposure.
Where does Bus 877 leave from in Beijing?
Bus 877 departs directly from the Deshengmen Bus Terminal. It drops passengers off near the Bear Park and cable car at the Badaling base. Beware of fake buses in the area.
Is the Badaling Great Wall too crowded?
It can be. It is the most popular section of the wall. To avoid the worst crowds, arrive at 6:30 AM or explore the quieter Quiet Southern Route instead of the busy North route.