Mutianyu Great Wall, located in Bo Hai Town, Haikou District, Beijing, is approximately 73 kilometers from the city center and represents the finest section of the Ming Dynasty’s 13,000-kilometer Great Wall. Construction began in 1404, overseen by the renowned general Qi Jiguang, who oversaw its repair and reinforcement. Compared to other sections of the Great Wall, Mutianyu boasts remarkably well-preserved architecture. Its structural design is meticulous, with a dense network of watchtowers, exhibiting diverse forms. There are 25 watchtowers distributed across approximately 2.2 kilometers of the main city wall, showcasing the exceptional skill of Ming Dynasty military defense engineering. The entire scenic area is embraced by mountains, with lush vegetation and a vegetation coverage rate exceeding 90%. Known as “the most beautiful section,” Mutianyu offers distinct scenery in each season: spring boasts vibrant wildflowers, summer is filled with lush greenery, autumn is painted with colorful foliage, and winter is blanketed in snow, making it an ideal destination for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.
A key feature of Mutianyu Great Wall is its relatively gentle slope, making it suitable for visitors of all ages to climb. The 14th watchtower, known as “Dagou Tower,” is a landmark building offering a spectacular panoramic view of the Great Wall winding along the mountain ridges. The 20th watchtower, “Wangjing Tower,” is believed to have been where guards once surveyed the direction of Beijing, with an exceptionally wide view. Furthermore, the area features cable cars and ski slopes, allowing visitors to take a cable car directly to Dagou Tower to conserve energy, and offering an exhilarating high-altitude ski slope experience for descending, adding to the fun of the visit.
As one of the earliest Great Wall sections to open to the public, Mutianyu has hosted numerous foreign dignitaries, earning it the nickname “Imperial Gift Wall.” It is not only an important historical site but also a symbol of cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world. In recent years, the area has continuously improved its service facilities, including visitor centers, dining areas, restrooms, and accessible pathways, enhancing the overall tourist experience. Whether pursuing historical and cultural heritage or enjoying natural scenery, Mutianyu Great Wall attracts global tourists with its unique charm, establishing it as one of Beijing’s and China’s most representative tourist destinations.
