The Great Wall at Badaling, Beijing

A very nice place. It is considered to be one of the greatest wonders of the world. When visiting, take enough water, snacks, and strong comfortable walking/hiking shoes. It is an intermediate to hard hike to the top. Unless, you take the cable cart to the top. If you are just a little fit, the hike is worth it. Phenomenal views which you will not see if you take the cable cart. Also, there's a slide down if you get worn out as you make your way down. It gets windy as you walk to the top. A jacket is recommended! Public transportation is available to reach the wall if you don't want to be limited by the time restrictions from a group tour. It takes some to maneuvering your way to the Wall in public transportation. Only cost 11 RMB from Beijing to Badaling. Take Cash. Also, book online for the tickets. Badaling is the most famous but there are other sites as well. Research before going.

Amazing place, but can get VERY crowded around holidays. Be sure and take the cable car to the top. It will save you time. However, I would suggest you visit one of the other Great Wall sites other than Badaling. Badaling is VERY commercial, and because of its proximity to Beijing, there are few days when you won't have to wait in line. Unfortunately the Great Wall tours to Badaling are mostly tourist rip-offs. They take you to see a Jade exhibit (which is just a jade store) where they try and sell you jade pieces that the tour company gets a kick-back from, along with a "tea exhibit" which is just a tea store. They also take you to see the Ming Tombs which are a waste of time in my opinion, and by the time you visit all of these places they give you very little time at the Great Wall. Their tour guides also speak poor English. Most of the people on my tour said they could only understand him forty percent of the time. My recommendation would be to visit one of the other Great Wall areas, other than Badaling, and rent a car and guide for the day. It will cost a little bit more, but you'll be Much happier.