Visiting the Great Wall of China – Restored and Wild Sections for ESL Teachers in China

For anyone teaching English in China, visiting the Great Wall is likely high on your bucket list—and rightly so. As one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, the Great Wall offers unforgettable scenery, centuries of history, and endless opportunities to explore both restored and wild sections. Fortunately, when you live and work in China as an ESL teacher, you’ll have the time and flexibility to experience both the popular areas and hidden gems of this 5,500-mile wonder.

Why ESL Teachers Love Visiting the Great Wall of China

Living in China gives you the unique chance to go beyond the typical tourist experience. While most travelers only have time to see one or two parts of the Wall, ESL teachers can explore a variety of routes over weekends, holidays, or school breaks. Whether you’re seeking the convenience of well-maintained sections like Badaling and Mutianyu or the adventure of wild, unrestored paths like Chenjiapu, teaching in China gives you the time—and the insider access—to experience it all.

Badaling and Mutianyu – Best Restored Sections of the Great Wall for Expats

If it’s your first time visiting the Great Wall, start with either Badaling or Mutianyu, two restored sections known for their accessibility and historical preservation.

• Badaling is especially popular with local Chinese tourists and offers an authentic but crowded experience.

• Mutianyu tends to attract international visitors and offers stunning views with fewer crowds.

Both locations are ideal for new ESL teachers living in Beijing or nearby cities. You’ll find helpful amenities like cable cars, chairlifts, and even toboggan rides back down the mountain—perfect for an adventurous weekend getaway.

How to Get to Badaling

• Take Bus 877 from Deshengmen Bus Station (reachable via Jishuitan, Line 2, Exit A)

• Cost: 12 RMB | Travel time: 90 minutes

How to Get to Mutianyu

• Take Bus 916 Express from Dongzhimen (accessible via Line 2, Line 13, or the Airport Express)

• Cost: 15–20 RMB | Travel time: 90–120 minutes

ESL Teacher Tip: Watch out for unofficial “fake buses” at these stations. They often display the correct route number but may stop at overpriced souvenir markets.

Great Wall Fresh – Explore the Wild Wall Like a Local

For ESL teachers in China who crave off-the-beaten-path travel, Great Wall Fresh in Chenjiapu Village is a must. This section of the Wall remains wild and unrestored, free from large tourist crowds and perfect for hiking and photography.

The Chen family welcomes visitors to stay in their home at the base of the Wall, offering local hospitality, homemade meals, and guided treks through the surrounding hills. You can choose from easy, moderate, or challenging hikes—and even see the Wall right from their garden.

How to Get There

• Contact the Chen family via their website (Great Wall Fresh) to arrange a pickup from Huilongguan Station, Line 13 of the Beijing Metro.

What to Know Before You Go:

• Only the son speaks some English, so it’s helpful to learn a few phrases in Mandarin before you arrive.

  • “Hǎo chī!” (好吃) – Delicious!

  • “Piào liàng!” (漂亮) – Beautiful!

Make the Most of Teaching and Traveling in China

Visiting the Great Wall of China as an ESL teacher offers something no short-term traveler can experience: time to fully explore. You’ll have the flexibility to visit in different seasons, uncover remote sections, and return as often as you like. Living in China not only enhances your cultural experience—it opens the door to truly exploring the Great Wall of China like a local.

At China Link ESL, we help teachers not only find great jobs but also discover the adventure that living in China can offer. From guiding you through the visa process to helping you settle into your new city, we’re here to support your journey.

Ready to explore the Great Wall during your teaching adventure?
Apply now and make your experience in China unforgettable—on and off the Wall.