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9 hour layover arrive at airport 5pm

Is it worth it and is it possible to leave the airport with a 9 hour layover but we land at 5pm? Where would be best to go, I’d love to go to the Great Wall. How much would it cost in taxis please?

With a 9-hour layover arriving at Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) at 5 PM, it is technically possible to leave the airport, but it comes with several constraints. Evening traffic in Beijing can be heavy, especially heading toward popular tourist sites like the Great Wall.

Here are some key points to consider:

  • Time Management: After landing at 5 PM, you need to clear immigration, baggage, and security for departure. This can easily take 45–60 minutes.
  • Travel to the Great Wall: The most accessible sections from Beijing are Mutianyu (around 1.5–2 hours one-way by car) or Badaling (slightly closer at 1–1.5 hours). Evening traffic may extend these times.
  • Practical Layover Window: Considering travel time to and from the airport plus time to go through security on your return, you realistically have 3–4 hours to spend at the Wall, which is quite rushed.

Cost of taxis or private car:

  • Taxi from PEK to Mutianyu Great Wall (round trip) is approximately ¥600–¥800, depending on traffic and waiting time. A private car or ride-hailing service may cost slightly more but is more comfortable.
  • Taxi to Badaling Great Wall (round trip) is slightly cheaper, around ¥500–¥700.

Alternative options:

  • If you prefer less risk and more sightseeing time, consider visiting closer attractions such as:
    • The Forbidden City / Tiananmen Square (about 1 hour from the airport by taxi or express train)
    • Temple of Heaven (about 1 hour)
    • Beijing city walk or local dinner experience
  • This way, you avoid the risk of missing your connecting flight due to traffic delays.

In summary, visiting the Great Wall is possible on a 9-hour layover arriving at 5 PM, but it will be very rushed and stressful. A closer city-center attraction might be a safer and more relaxed option for an evening layover.

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The attractions mentioned in this question

Mutianyu Great Wall
Badaling Great Wall
Beijing
Great Wall
Forbidden City
Badaling Great Wall
Temple of Heaven
Tiananmen Square
Tiananmen Square

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