Jiankou-mutianyu vs jinshaling great wall

Question

Hello, we are going to China in April and we are unsure about which segment to visit.

We'd prefer a less crowded place so in that

sense jinshaling should win, but at the same time the hike from jiankou to mutianyu looks amazing and we love hiking.

We would go with a private car arranged to maximize our time there.

Any feedback?

Thanks a lot!

Answer

When deciding between Jiankou-Mutianyu and Jinshaling sections of the Great Wall, your choice depends on your priorities: hiking experience, scenery, and crowd levels. Both offer unique experiences, but they differ significantly in accessibility and challenge.

Jiankou to Mutianyu: This is a famous hiking route connecting the wild Jiankou section with the restored Mutianyu section. It offers dramatic scenery, steep climbs, and a sense of adventure as Jiankou is largely unrestored, featuring rugged walls and watchtowers.

The hike is physically demanding and requires good stamina, proper shoes, and caution, especially in sections that are uneven or partially crumbling.
Scenery is spectacular, with panoramic views of mountains and valleys, making it ideal for photography and hikers who enjoy natural landscapes.
Because Jiankou is less restored and less accessible, it is generally less crowded than Mutianyu or Badaling, but you should still start early to avoid meeting tour groups coming from Mutianyu.
Mutianyu end of the hike is fully restored, with cable car access, making it easier to descend if needed.

Jinshaling: Jinshaling is part of the Simatai section, known for being less crowded than Mutianyu or Badaling, but more restored than Jiankou. It is a good choice for those who prefer solitude and a less touristy experience while still having a safe walking environment.

The section has moderate hiking difficulty, with steep stairs but generally safe and well-maintained paths.
It is quieter than Mutianyu, especially on weekdays, allowing for a more peaceful visit and opportunities for photography without large crowds.
It is accessible by private car and offers parking and facilities, making it convenient for a day trip.

Additional tips if you are using a private car:

Start early in the morning to maximize hiking time and avoid midday crowds, especially at Mutianyu.
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, particularly for Jiankou, as facilities are minimal along the wild sections.
If you want a combination of adventure and safety, consider hiking from Jiankou down to Mutianyu and then taking the cable car down, which allows you to experience both the wild and restored walls without excessive fatigue.

In summary, if you prioritize hiking challenge and dramatic scenery, Jiankou-Mutianyu is an excellent choice. If you prefer a quieter, easier, and less touristy experience with moderate hiking, Jinshaling is the better option. Since you have a private car, either option can be tailored to your schedule, but Jiankou-Mutianyu requires careful planning and an early start for the best experience.

Jiankou-mutianyu vs jinshaling great wall

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