Simatai Great Wall Section Pass

Located in the remote Miyun District of Beijing, Simatai is the only section that retains the original Ming Dynasty stone construction and the only night time accessible section. This wild wonder is marked by jagged watchtowers, dearing battlements and broad panoramic views out across the ridges. Tucked away from the glitterati of Badaling, Simatai offers solitude, dramatic landscapes, and a feeling of ancient age for those who want to experience an authentic and slow-paced visit to the world's most legendary fortification.

Operating Hours and Tour Recommendations

Operating Hours: 08:00–17:00

Estimated Time Required: 4–6 hours

Optimal Visiting Times: Late spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October)

Smart Planning Tips:

1. Please book tickets at least one day ahead: official WeChat mini-program or authorized platforms are welcome, because it doesn't guarantee tickets will be available at the gate during rush hour.

2. Sturdy hiking shoes will be needed because a few slopes are steep in the eastern part, and remember, jackets and sun protection are needed for daytime excursions on the slopes.

What Guests Are Saying

Simatai is always one of the most rewarding Great Wall China experiences, with visitors continually extolling its rustic, untouched personality and dramatic mountain landscape. The steep staircases and authentic brick surfaces of the east part are regarded as both challenging and stimulating by many. The night tour is highly popular, with the lantern lit battlements reflected in the reservoir below being described by the reviewers as truly magnificent. A few visitors warn that the path requires some fitness and that hiking poles are advisable to take. Many travelers consider it the best attraction in Beijing, whether visiting for the first time or again.

Related Articles & Suggested Excursions

When you're looking for a richer experience, have dinner at Gubei Water Town, a recreation of Ming-Qing townscape architecture on the foot of the wall and open to visitors 24 hours a day. We've also compiled our Beijing attractions overview and itinerary guide, adding custom suggestions for planning your visit in Beijing.