Walk a restored morning stretch at Mutianyu and return at night to the steeper, lantern-lit towers of Simatai with included cable cars and a private guide. This full-day circuit pairs accessible hiking with dramatic sunset and night views over Gubei Water Town.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You round a low ridge before the van eases onto a narrow road and the wall arrives: stone spine, crenellated watchtowers stepping across the ridgeline. At Mutianyu the morning light picks out weathered bricks between watchtowers 14 and 23; at Simatai the wall becomes a silhouette that glows after sunset over lantern-lit Gubei Water Town.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate — able to climb and descend multiple flights of uneven stone steps over several hours
Wildlife
History
The wall sections date from Ming dynasty reconstruction efforts; Mutianyu was fortified to guard approaches northeast of Beijing while Simatai protected local waterways and passes.
Conservation
Visitor pressure can erode unrepaired sections; stick to marked paths, avoid graffiti, and support local conservation fees that fund repair and management.
Reserve your spot on the Great Wall Day and Night tour to Mutianyu & Simatai today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy, broken-in shoes
Stone steps at both Mutianyu and Simatai can be steep and uneven; closed-toe hiking shoes with good traction are essential.
Bring a light layer for night
Temperatures drop quickly after sunset at Simatai—pack a windbreaker or fleece for the evening portion.
Use the cable car if knees complain
Round‑trip cable cars at both sites save significant vertical gain; take them for descent if you prefer to avoid steep drops.
Carry a small headlamp or phone flashlight
Sections at Simatai after dusk have limited lighting; a light source improves footing and photography setup.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Support and traction for uneven, often-steep stone steps.
Light jacket or fleece
Evening temperatures near Simatai drop noticeably after sunset.
fall
Small daypack
Carries water, snacks, layers, and a phone or camera for the day.
Headlamp or flashlight
Useful for moving safely at dusk and for low-light photography at Simatai.
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