Day trip to Mutianyu Great Wall + Summer Palace with Tickets by CITS x ZANBUS

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the cable car up to Mutianyu's Watchtower 14 for sweeping panoramic views of the wall snaking through lush mountains

• Slide down the mountain on the thrilling 2.2 km alpine slide for an unforgettable adventure

• Stroll along Kunming Lake and visit the iconic 17-Arch Bridge at the Summer Palace

• Explore the towering Tower of Buddhist Incense and admire the exquisite classical Chinese garden landscapes

Hidden Gems

• Visit Mutianyu early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the wall bathed in golden sunrise light—the towers look like they rise from the earth themselves

• The Summer Palace's Suzhou Street, a faux waterway lined with shops, is a lesser-known gem that recreates Qing Dynasty commercial life

• Between Watchtowers 14 and 20 at Mutianyu, the wall becomes wilder and more rugged, offering a more solitary and atmospheric experience

What Makes it Special

• Dual UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one tour—nearly every other day trip covers only one of these landmarks

• Zero shopping stops guarantee a respectful, uninterrupted experience focused entirely on history and culture

• Professional CITS-licensed English-speaking guide provides deep historical context you won't find in any guidebook

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery—spring brings blooming flowers along the wall, while autumn paints the mountains in golden and crimson hues. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter may see some areas of the Great Wall closed due to ice and snow.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Position yourself at Watchtower 14 for the classic postcard shot of the Great Wall winding through the mountains—early morning light casts dramatic shadows that highlight the architecture

• At the Summer Palace, capture the 17-Arch Bridge framed by the willow trees and Kunming Lake for a timeless composition

• Use a wide-angle lens at Mutianyu to convey the sheer scale and grandeur of the wall disappearing over the horizon

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the Summer Palace, remember that it was once the private residence of Chinese emperors—maintain a respectful demeanor and avoid loud conversations near sacred sites like the Tower of Buddhist Incense It is customary to remove shoes before entering certain temple areas within the Summer Palace complex Tipping is not expected in China, but showing appreciation to your guide with a sincere thank you is always welcomed

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Mutianyu Great Wall Marathon—held annually in autumn, this event draws runners from around the world to race along the ancient wall

• Summer Palace Ice Skating Festival—during winter, Kunming Lake freezes and transforms into a natural ice rink, a beloved local pastime

• Beijing International Tourism Festival—usually held in September, offering special cultural performances and activities at major landmarks

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay on designated pathways at Mutianyu—the wall can be steep and narrow in sections, and railings are not present along every segment

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas at both attractions, especially on public transportation and at ticket checkpoints

• Stay hydrated throughout the day, as walking on the Great Wall and through the Summer Palace grounds can be physically demanding