Mutianyu, Section of Great Wall in Huairou District, China
Mutianyu is a fortified section along wooded mountain ridges north of Beijing, winding through hilly terrain for several kilometers. The stone walls follow natural elevation lines and connect watchtowers that serve as resting points along the way.
The first fortifications appeared in the 6th century during the Northern Qi Dynasty to secure northern frontier territories. Later expansions took place during the Ming era, when this section was developed as part of the defense line against invasions.
The watchtowers show two-story constructions with curved roofs that fit into the wooded mountain landscape. Visitors experience the change between steep climbs and flat sections, making the walk a physically felt part of the journey.
Access begins with a cable car or chairlift, while the descent can also be made on a toboggan ride. The paths on the wall are partly uneven and require sturdy footwear and some stamina for longer stretches.
The granite blocks used give the walls a light gray tone that appears differently in changing light compared to other locations. In some places, pine trees grow directly from the stone joints, forming small green islands on the old structure.
Location: Mutianyu
Part of: Great Wall of China
Website: https://mutianyugreatwall.com
GPS coordinates: 40.43802,116.56190
Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23
Beijing offers photographers a mix of imperial palaces, Buddhist temples, traditional hutongs, and contemporary architecture. The city combines the Great Wall at Mutianyu and the Forbidden City with modern structures like the CCTV Headquarters and Bird's Nest stadium. Historic sites such as the Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace stand alongside the 798 Art Zone and Sanlitun's bars. From the Bell and Drum Towers to the National Centre for the Performing Arts, this collection includes locations across multiple districts. Nanluoguxiang Hutong and Yandaixiejie Hutong showcase traditional alleyways, while Beihai Park and Jingshan Park provide elevated viewpoints. Temples like Yonghe and Fayuan, plus the ruins of the Old Summer Palace, add to the city's architectural variety for social media content.
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It was incredible, I could only walk for 1.5 hours but it was so relaxing. I sincerely advise you to take the cable car to go up and on the way back to buy a ticket at the top of the wall to slide down on a sled.
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