Went to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall in October 2011. This was my 2nd visit to the Great Wall, the 1st time I went in Dec 2007 and visited Jiayuguan. I must say both are spectacular. if you only get one chance to see the Great Wall, then either one is fantastic, you won't be disappointed. Mutianyu is a bit nicer though, it felt less tourists, and the walk was longer. which spread out the tourists. more photo opportunities. Also, after you get off the cable car, you have the option of walking a flatter section, or a steeper one. I took the steeper one. but walked very slowly. the towers in between are interesting. From memory, the Jiayuguan one was a very steep climb up straightaway and didn't have as many towers. The 'steep" path in Mutianyu still was gradual, and it sloped up & down a bit, with a very steep bit towards later. Views are literally breath taking on either one!! I hear Badaling is the most crowded so avoid that one if you can, although I personally haven't been there. It just amazes me how people built this over 2000 years ago without machinery. just incredible. Make sure you have very comfy shoes (trainers or hiking boots) a jacket that you can easily put on/take off, and water! they do sell drinks though even cold beer!! but didn't see any toilet for like 1.5 hrs...
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