Live Your Best Lives
I've been to Beijing, the capital of China, several times since I was a child, but unfortunately, I never got to explore it properly. This time, I took advantage of my business trip to Beijing for a meeting and quickly arranged a two-day trip.
Originally, I was planning to climb some "wild" sections of the Great Wall, such as Jinshanling and Simatai. But after some online research, everyone said that it's better not to take such a big risk on a first trip alone. As for why I didn't go to Juyongguan and Mutianyu, the most famous Badaling naturally has its own reasons. I have always believed that what others say is good or bad is ultimately theirs, and you still have to go and see it for yourself and experience it. Meeting Point: Beitucheng Subway Station, Exit C (Lines 8/10) Having walked around the Summer Palace for almost five hours the previous day in boots, I was so exhausted I couldn't get out of bed that morning. I dawdled until almost 9:00 AM. Luckily, I'd booked the 10:00 AM direct bus to the scenic area. I couldn't afford to take my trip to the Great Wall lightly. I quickly changed into some light, warm shoes, took Line 10 (Line 8 is also acceptable), and exited Beitucheng Station, Exit C. I was greeted by the direct bus attendants wearing green vests. (A round-trip subway fare is just over 10 yuan, depending on the distance. A direct bus is 80 yuan per person round trip.)
To Badaling, meet at Exit C of Beitucheng Subway Station. It's often windy in the north, especially at the Great Wall. Remember to dress warmly or bring a jacket; catching a cold while out on the trail isn't worth it. Also, remember to wear sunscreen—you need it year-round, especially when visiting an open area like the Great Wall.
On the bus to Badaling Great WallA big shout-out to all the fellow travelers. They're all pretty decent these days, and no one was late. The direct bus departed right on time at 10:00 AM. The tour guide was also very considerate, helping everyone who needed it to register and purchase tickets for the cable car along the way. The journey was smooth, with no traffic jams along the highway, and we arrived at Badaling in just over an hour. Once we arrived at the scenic area, there was no need to queue, and we just swiped our ID cards to enter. It was really convenient and quick.
Badaling Great Wall Badaling Great Wall - Red Leaves Reveal Autumn
Badaling Great Wall Mist-shrouded Badaling, here I come! The return trip was at 4 PM, giving me a full four hours to explore the Great Wall. However, I had to get up early for work and a meeting the next day, so I was a little worried about being completely exhausted, so I opted to take the cable car up and down. After taking the cable car up, you can continue climbing a classic section with plenty of slopes, so the climb back down wasn't as tiring as I imagined. If it were all stairs and I had to climb the entire way myself, I'd probably be exhausted. 
Badaling Great Wall Add the blue sky and white clouds
I might not have felt tired while climbing, but when I think about how the Great Wall was built and imagine it stretching endlessly, I can really feel its grandeur. Ancient Chinese architects, craftsmen, and people were truly remarkable, creating such a magnificent architectural wonder.
Badaling Great Wall The pull-back car provided by "Basida" instantly brought me back to my childhood~~ We gathered at 4:00 and set off for the return trip. After everyone's excited play, the bus was filled with cheers. No matter where we go, we always want to return. Although the return trip took over an hour, it felt like time flew by so quickly that we were at Beitucheng Station, our starting point.
This trip to Badaling Great Wall was worthwhile. I especially loved the expansive natural landscape and look forward to the opportunity to climb other sections of the Great Wall again.
Always enjoy the journey.
Number of days: 1 day, Average cost: 200 yuan, Updated: 2022.06.23
Number of days: 1 day, Average cost: 200 yuan,
Number of days: 1 day, Average cost: 30 yuan,
Number of days: 2 days, Average cost: 1,000 yuan,
Number of days: 1 day, , Updated: 2021.03.26
Number of days: 2 days, Average cost: 2000 yuan,
