The Badaling Great Wall is located in Beijing's Yanqing District. It is the most famous and best-preserved section of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, often hailed as "one of the nine great passes under heaven." Built along steep mountain ridges, its walls are tall and solid, with watchtowers and beacon towers scattered in perfect order. From afar, it looks like a giant dragon coiled along the mountaintops. Badaling served as a key outpost for Juyong Pass and has been a major transportation route since ancient times — its name literally means "leading in all directions." Construction of this section began in the Ming Dynasty and took over 80 years to complete. In 1987, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is now a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Beijing.

A Legend of the Great Wall

One of the most enduring legends about the Great Wall is the story of "Meng Jiangnu Weeping Down the Wall." According to the tale, during the Qin Dynasty, a young woman named Meng Jiangnu's husband, Fan Xiliang, was forcibly taken to build the Great Wall. Years passed with no word from him. Determined to find him, Meng Jiangnu traveled thousands of miles, enduring hardships along the way. When she finally reached the foot of the Great Wall, she was devastated to learn that her husband had died from overwork and was buried within the wall itself. Overcome with grief, she wept bitterly for three days and nights. Her cries were so sorrowful that they shook the heavens and the earth — and suddenly, with a loud rumble, an 800-li (about 400 kilometers) stretch of the wall collapsed. Though this is just a folk legend, it vividly reflects the immense toil and sacrifice of the countless laborers who built the Great Wall, reminding us that every brick carries a heavy weight of history.

What Visitors Love About It

What visitors appreciate most about the Badaling Great Wall is its well-developed facilities and visitor-friendly experience. The scenic area offers cable cars and funicular railways, making it easy for seniors and children to ascend the wall and experience the heroic spirit of "He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true man." The northern and southern sections each have their own charm — the north route is classic and grand, leading to the famous "Hero Slope," while the south route is relatively quieter, perfect for a more leisurely stroll with beautiful views. Many visitors say that the breathtaking view from the wall — with mountains stretching as far as the eye can see — is something you have to experience in person to truly appreciate; it's an unforgettable memory for a lifetime. The summer night tours are also highly praised — with lights illuminating the wall like a golden dragon under the starry sky, it offers a cool, romantic, and entirely different atmosphere, complete with interactive performances that make the visit even more enjoyable.

Quick Tip

Book your admission and cable car tickets online in advance — during peak seasons, on-site tickets sell out fast. Also, don't forget to bring your original passport/ID for entry.