The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China is scenic delight as well as historic treasure. Partially restored in recent decades, this part of the wall crosses the hilly landscapes outside Beijing, which makes for tough climbing and spectacular views. Fortunately, Mutianyu also features a cable car service that will ease your ascent and offer an excellent platform from which to take in the full beauty of one of humanities great feats of engineering.
Built in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi Dynasty, Mutianyu is older than the Badaling section of the Great Wall. Several upgrades took place during the Ming dynasty, although it was vastly renovated in 1569. Because of this, Mutianyu is considered to be among the most well preserved sections of the wall. It is also one of the most unique, including as it does an unusually high frequency of watch towers, and ramparts on both sides of the wall itself, suggesting that this was considered an area of strategic importance.