Beijing Great Wall Simatai – Why it is my Favorite?

Beijing Great Wall Simatai – I love Simatai! Period.

One must realize that I am only comparing Simatai to Badaling.

Though I have climbed the Great Wall 5 times (three times in Simatai, twice in Badaling – I followed my clients up for their Badaling hike with a travel agency), a trip up to the top of Simatai section of the Great Wall is a spiritual moment of clarity.

I don’t know why. It just is.

If I can only get some of my colleagues to brainstorm for solutions to some of our business problems (it’s not easy to work in China) at the Summit, I am sure we’ll be more productive. Seriously, Simatai could be a great location for corporate meetings!

So, what’s the big deal about Simatai?

Simatai is 2.5 to 3 hours north-east of Beijing. When your tour bus gets near to Simatai, there is a real excitement as you can see the small watch towers that are dotted high up on the mountain ridge.

Once you’re there, there is no hassle for parking like in Badaling due to ample parking lots. In addition, there are many shops to do your last minute shopping like camera film, batteries and mineral water before your ascent.

There are also many restaurants that you can have reasonably-priced food. And best of all, you can enjoy your local Chinese food with the majestic view of the Great Wall in sight. Wow!

One of the reasons why I prefer Simatai is that you will seldom encounter that many tourists compared to Badaling. I guess most tourists/ tour agencies find it more convenient to travel to Badaling. Well, I hope it stays that way!

The View?

The Wall at Simatai is simply wonderful. The views of the mountains and the surrounding area are breathtaking. Besides that, Simatai is also one of the few sections that retained the original characteristics of the Ming dynasty Great Wall.

Take a look at this video!Beijing Great Wall Simatai

Word of Caution:

I will recommend those who are not that physically fit to take the cable car to the No.8 tower and either continues up from there or walk down to No.3 tower and then take the path to the bottom.

As for money, please ensure that you take enough money with you to pay another entrance fee of 30 RMB to get onto the Simatai section. At the end of this section you will also need to pay 10 RMB to cross the rope bridge.

There is no other way across unless you are Superman!

To end, if you are in Beijing, go to the Simatai section and ignore travel agencies who try to tell you otherwise. They like to push you to the busier Badaling (my first time at the Great Wall) which is more convenient but half the enjoyment.

There’s no point in rushing a beautiful trip up the Great Wall, isn’t it?

Take my advice and enjoy a moment of tranquility at the Simatai Summit!