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8 Unusual Things to Do at the Great Wall of China

While hiking remains the most popular activity at the Great Wall, there are far more ways to immerse yourself in this iconic landmark than just walking its length. Below are 8 unique experiences to elevate your Great Wall adventure.

1. Ride a Toboggan down the Great Wall

One of the top things to do on the Great Wall of China is try a toboggan or slide down the Great Wall, available in both Mutianyu and Badaling Great Wall. Compared to a leisurely hike or steady cable car, a twisty toboggan ride is far more exciting with high speed, especially suitable for visitors who love challenges.

Ride a Toboggan down the Great Wall

2. Take a Night Tour of the Great Wall

A night tour of the Great Wall delivers a visual spectacle that ranks among its biggest highlights. As the sun dips below the horizon, the ancient structure is bathed in the soft glow of lights, transforming into a sight vastly different from its daytime appearance. The Simatai Great Wall stands out as the premier spot for night visits, offering year-round evening tours. Adding to its allure, the ancient and charming Gubei Water Town lies at its foot; the town’s bustling night scene contrasts with Simatai’s tranquility, creating an unforgettable experience. Additionally, the Badaling, Mutianyu, and Juyongguan sections open for night tours in summer, often accompanied by traditional Chinese performances.

Simatai Great Wall at Night

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Simatai Great Wall at Night

3. Overlook the Badaling Great Wall by Helicopter

The “Helicopter Tour over Badaling Great Wall” has emerged as a sought-after experience, drawing long queues of tourists eager to take part. As the helicopter ascends gently, passengers are treated to a brand-new perspective of the Badaling Great Wall, allowing them to more vividly appreciate the wall’s winding path and the grandeur of its watchtowers. Departing from Badaling Airport, the 30-minute flight takes you over the Badaling Great Wall, Wildlife Park, and Wetland Park, showcasing a diverse range of landscapes - it is truly an experience not to be missed.

Visit the Great Wall by helicopter

Top 8 Things to Do on the Badaling Great Wall

4. Camping at Jinshanling Great Wall: Stars and Sunrise

A campsite is nestled at the foot of the Jinshanling Great Wall. Pitch a tent here, and the magnificent Great Wall will be right before your eyes. Settle back in a chair, savor delicious food, and gaze at the wall - an effortlessly comfortable and wonderful experience. A small river runs adjacent to the campsite, where you can fish or go boating to unlock even more recreational fun. When night falls, the sky fills with stars, casting a romantic ambiance over the area.

The sunrise at Jinshanling Great Wall is widely acclaimed as the most stunning. As golden morning light bathes the entire wall, paired with wispy mist, the scene resembles something out of a fairy tale. Rise early, set off from the campsite, and climb the Jinshanling Great Wall to witness this awe-inspiring view!

Sunset at Jinshanling Great Wall

Camping on the Great Wall of China

5. Watch the Train Running in “Peach Blossom Sea” on Juyongguan Great Wall

This train has been vividly dubbed the “Train to Spring.” Standing atop the Juyongguan Great Wall and looking down, you’ll be greeted by a sea of blooming apricot and peach blossoms. Pink and white petals blanket the mountains and valleys, harmonizing with the ancient Great Wall and the passing train to create a breathtaking tableau that turns the entire valley into a floral wonderland. The prime time to catch this sight is from March 20 to April 15 each year; if your Great Wall visit falls within this window, be sure not to miss it.

6. Picnic on the Great Wall

Seek out an open spot along the Great Wall, spread out some snacks and drinks, and your perfect picnic is ready. After a strenuous climb, the food tastes all the more delicious; the gentle breeze and the ancient wall’s presence add an extra layer of charm to the meal. For an extra touch, bring a bottle of champagne to toast your achievement of reaching the top.

Picnic on Great Wall of China

7. Run a Marathon on Huangyaguan Great Wall

The Huangyaguan Great Wall Marathon has earned a spot on the list of the “Top 10 Coolest and Most Challenging Marathons in the World.” Held annually on the third Saturday of May, the event offers three categories: a full marathon of 42 km (26 miles), a half marathon of 21 km (13 miles), and a short course of 8.5 km (5.3 miles). The entire route covers 5,164 steps of the Huangyaguan Great Wall, along with 30 km (19 miles) of mountain trails and village roads. As runners make their way, they can enjoy the majestic grandeur of the ancient Great Wall, the scenic beauty of mountains, rivers, and valleys, and the simple, genuine charm of rural villages.

8. Graffiti on the Mutianyu Great Wall

Inside the No. 14 Watchtower of the Mutianyu Great Wall, three graffiti walls, covered in white cloth, have been set up. Here, tourists can sign their names, create drawings, or leave any marks they wish. This is the only location along the entire Great Wall where graffiti is permitted.