About
Badaling is a section of the Great Wall of China, and it is the one most visitors see first. Its restored Ming Dynasty fortifications have been kept in good condition, and the site is set up to receive large numbers of people, with cable cars, museums and a range of visitor services on hand.
What to expect
- The wall itself: Walking the restored stonework gives a clear sense of how the fortifications were built and how they run along the ridgelines.
- Cable cars: For those who would rather not climb the whole way, cable cars offer an easier route up and along the wall.
- Museums: On-site museums add background to the wall and its place in China's history.
- Visitor services: The site is equipped for day visitors, so you can plan a visit without much difficulty.
Planning your visit
Because Badaling is the most visited part of the wall, expect crowds, especially at busy times. Wear comfortable shoes, since the steps and slopes are steep in places, and allow time both for the climb and for the facilities at the base. Many travellers combine a visit here with a trip to the wider Beijing area, which is where the site sits.
Badaling suits anyone who wants a well-supported, accessible introduction to the Great Wall, whether or not they have visited it before. Those seeking quieter, less developed stretches may prefer to look at other sections of the wall.