Ultimate Great Wall Adventure: One-Day Exploration of Jinshanling and Panlongshan Great Wall in Beijing - Walking the Backbone of History
Highlights
▲ Itinerary overview: Depart from Beijing (Exit F of Guomao subway station at 8:45 AM, Exit E of Shaoyaoju subway station at 9:15 AM), approximately 3.5-hour drive.
▲ Arrive at Jinshanling Great Wall around 12:00 PM to begin your visit. You can take a shuttle (fee required) from the attraction entrance to the foot of the Great Wall to save energy. Have lunch around 12:30 PM at the base of the Great Wall. We recommend bringing your own snacks and water for a picnic in one of the watchtowers or along the shaded sections of the wall—it's a fantastic experience. Note that there are limited supply points within the attraction, and prices are higher.
▲ 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Start exploring and taking photos. Starting point: Jinshanling section, ascend from Zhuanduokou, pass by Xiaojinshan Tower (classic photo spot) and Qilin Screen Wall Tower, experiencing the grandeur of the wall and the intricacy of the watchtowers. Midpoint: Jinshanling-Panlongshan border, where you can observe the gradual change in the Great Wall's style—transitioning from brick-and-stone construction to rough stone masonry, exuding a wilder atmosphere. Ending point: Panlongshan section. 24-Window Tower: Once the watchtower with the most arrow windows in Great Wall history (now partially ruined), its impressive foundation remains visible. General's Tower: The highest point of Panlongshan, with arrow windows on all four walls, showcasing its strategic significance. Black Tower: A mysterious watchtower, said to have stored gunpowder in its black-painted wooden structure.
▲ Head back down the mountain around 5:30 PM. Arrive in downtown Beijing around 10:00 PM (the trip ends at Shaoyaoju subway station or Wangfujing Street).
▲ Must-take photo spots: Xiaojinshan Tower: A classic angle where the Great Wall coils like a dragon along the ridge, especially stunning when the autumn foliage is vibrant. Qilin Screen Wall: A watchtower featuring a well-preserved Ming Dynasty relief screen wall with exquisite details. Inscribed Brick Wall: City bricks inscribed with the firing date and troop numbers from the Ming Dynasty, bearing witness to historical traces.
▲ Helpful tips: Attire: Wear non-slip sports shoes or hiking boots! Some sections have steep slopes with loose bricks and stones, requiring the use of both hands and feet. Supplies: Bring enough drinking water (at least 3 bottles per person) and energy snacks. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also necessary. Safety first: Do not climb unopened wild sections of the Great Wall. Follow attraction regulations and watch your step. Weather: Check the forecast before your trip. Clouds are more likely to appear after rain, but be cautious of slippery paths. Photography tips: Afternoon sunlight is ideal for photographing the western section, creating excellent lighting effects. If you have the energy, stay until sunset for breathtaking views.