China Travel

The Jinshanling section of the Great Wall is well-known as the starting point of  the 10.5 km hike along the wall ending at Simatai. While the initial section of the wall has been restored to original condition, the condition of the wall deteriorates towards its natural state as it approaches Simatai. Jinshanling has had less restoration than other parts such as Simatai, Badaling and Mutianya and is popular among travelers who want to get an "authentic" experience away from the tourist hordes who flock to sections of the wall that are within closer proximity to Beijing.  

The hike between Jinshanling and Simatai is truly amazing. The wall snakes over the mountains and the views on the hike are spectacular. Along the way, there are a numerous of watch towers and beacon towers of various constructions and in levels of disrepair to explore. 

Because much of the Jinshanling wall has not been renovated, the ancient steps are often uneven and you won't find the convenient iron handrails and garbage pails every 100 meters like you would at more touristy parts of the wall.

The hike takes four to five hours and is well worth it. You can also start the hike from Simatai and end in Jinshanling, but it's generally best to start at Jinshanling as it's more remote and it's easier to get transportation back to Beijing from Simatai. 

At the ticket gate to Jinshanling, there are a few shops, but nothing in the way of accommodations. If you are looking to stay overnight, there are a few modestly priced hostels and guesthouses in Simatai where you can stay.

A cable car has been constructed to take visitors up to the wall, but the hike up the steep path to the wall takes about 15 minutes.