Busda:Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer and Old Summer Palace Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Beijing and want to experience some of its most iconic sights without breaking the bank, the Busda Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer and Old Summer Palace Day Tour might just be the right fit. At $33 per person, this roughly 9-hour journey takes you to one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall—Mutianyu—along with the sprawling Summer Palace and the haunting ruins of the Old Summer Palace.

What we love about this tour is its straightforward approach to showcasing Beijing’s imperial history through efficient transportation and knowledgeable guides. The tour’s focus on less crowded sections of the Wall offers a more relaxed experience, and the inclusion of entry tickets for all the main sites saves time and hassle. Plus, the chance to see the Summer Palace’s stunning gardens and lakes makes for excellent photo opportunities.

One thing to keep in mind is that some optional attractions—such as the cable car, toboggan, or boat rides—cost extra. If you’re on a tight budget, you might prefer to skip these, but if you want to include them, plan for an additional RMB outlay. Also, while the itinerary is well-paced, some travelers have expressed disappointment when their main activities were canceled last-minute, so it’s worth checking the weather and confirming reservations.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, guided experience that hits the highlights of Beijing’s most celebrated sites. It’s ideal for those with limited time or who prefer a structured day with all logistics taken care of, but who still crave authentic views and insightful commentary from local guides.

Key Points

• Affordable price with all main entrance tickets included
• Expert guides providing historical insights and practical assistance
• Flexible optional activities like cable cars, boats, and toboggans available for purchase
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning
• Small group size (up to 47 travelers) for a more personalized experience
• Potential last-minute cancellations or changes, so check ahead

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

Starting at 7:30 am from a convenient meeting point in Beijing, this tour offers a roundtrip ride on an air-conditioned bus, taking you from the heart of the city to its most famous sights. The cost covers all main entrance tickets—to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, the Summer Palace, and the Old Summer Palace—making it a budget-friendly way to see these top attractions without additional surprises. The tour also includes an English-speaking guide and a shuttle inside the sites, which is especially helpful at sprawling locations like the Summer Palace.

However, some optional extras may add to your experience. The cable car at Mutianyu costs around 140 RMB, and the toboggan ride same amount, both offering a fun way to ascend or descend. The boat rides in the Summer Palace and Old Summer Palace are available for 100 RMB and 80 RMB respectively, and can transform your sightseeing into a relaxing water-based experience.

The Mutianyu Great Wall: A Less Crowded Marvel

Arriving at Mutianyu after about 1.5 hours of comfortable coach travel, you’ll meet staff in green vests with the Busda logo, guiding you smoothly onto the site. Mutianyu is known for its less crowded, more preserved sections compared to Badaling, which makes it a favorite among visitors seeking a more authentic experience.

Once there, you’ll collect your tickets and can choose to take the internal shuttle uphill, saving your energy for exploring the ancient stones and watchtowers. The views from Mutianyu are stunning, with lush hillsides rolling into the distance. Many travelers appreciate the less hurried pace here, giving ample time to walk along the wall, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

A popular optional add-on is the cable car, which can give a quick ascent and descent, but it does come at extra cost. The toboggan ride is another fun option, especially if you’re looking for a bit of thrill.

The Summer Palace: Imperial Grandeur and Scenic Beauty

After a roughly 1.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive at the Summer Palace, often called the “Garden of Gardens.” Here, your guide will lead you through the Palace Area, revealing stories about the imperial family’s luxurious life. One highlight is walking along the long corridor adorned with intricate paintings, a peaceful stroll that offers a glimpse into Qing Dynasty splendor.

You’ll have approximately 2.5 hours to explore. Favorable weather makes the Kunming Lake and the surrounding gardens especially photogenic. The optional Imperial Ferry Boat (cost 100 RMB) allows you to cross the lake and enjoy views that are truly postcard-worthy, though it’s a separate purchase.

The Old Summer Palace: Ruins of Grandeur

Closing the day at the Old Summer Palace, which was looted and burned in 1860, provides a poignant contrast to the lush gardens of the main Summer Palace. The Yuanmingyuan Ruins Park offers a mix of ruined palaces, lakes, and gardens that hint at past opulence. It’s a quieter site, often less crowded, and provides a reflective ending to your imperial Beijing experience.

With around 1.5 hours here, you can walk through the remnants, imagining the original grandeur, and learn about its tragic history. The optional tour boat (cost 80 RMB) adds a leisurely water experience, but it’s not included in the base price.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Multiple reviews mention knowledgeable guides, with one noting that “Selina was our guide—she was excellent and made the experience worthwhile,” highlighting how a good guide can turn a busy day into an engaging journey.

Some travelers have expressed disappointment when their main activities, particularly the Summer Palace, got canceled last-minute, which underscores the importance of confirming your reservations and checking the weather. Despite such hiccups, many still found the Wall and the scenery to be worth the trip, praising the stunning vistas and well-organized logistics.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Be prepared for the optional costs—if you want the cable car or boat rides, budget extra RMB accordingly.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking quite a bit at each site.
• Bring water and sun protection—the outdoor sites can be sunny and exposed.
• Check the weather forecast before your day, especially since some cancellations are weather-dependent.
• Arrive early to meet your guide promptly and start the day on time.
• Consider skipping the optional boat rides if you’re on a tight schedule or budget; the main sites are quite fulfilling on their own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers who want to see the must-visit sites with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided insights and don’t mind a somewhat structured schedule. If you’re someone who prefers to explore independently or wants a more immersive experience, this might feel a bit rushed or predictable.

It’s also ideal if you want a balanced view of Beijing’s imperial history with scenic spots and cultural stories, especially if you’re short on time but still want to get a solid sense of the city’s grandeur.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

For just $33, this tour offers remarkable value, especially considering all entrance tickets are included. You get the chance to walk along the Great Wall—probably the most iconic symbol of China—and explore the Summer Palace’s lush gardens, both of which provide fantastic photo ops and memorable experiences.

While a few last-minute cancellations or optional costs may temper expectations, the knowledgeable guides and stunning views make this a worthwhile option for first-time visitors or anyone who wants a well-organized overview of Beijing’s imperial legacy.

Just remember to manage your expectations about optional extras and confirm your reservations in advance. It’s a busy day, but one that can leave you with a genuine appreciation for China’s rich cultural tapestry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am from a designated meeting point in Beijing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation is provided on an air-conditioned bus from central Beijing.

Are entrance tickets included?
All main entrance tickets—Great Wall at Mutianyu, Summer Palace, and Old Summer Palace—are included in the price.

Can I buy optional activities on the day?
Yes, optional activities like the cable car, toboggan, and boat rides are available for additional RMB and can be purchased based on your preferences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, and perhaps a camera. Optional extra spending may include tickets for the cable car, boat rides, or toboggans.

Is the group size large?
The tour accommodates up to 47 travelers, but it’s generally manageable and guided to ensure you’re not lost in the crowd.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This guided day trip is a practical, scenic, and educational way to see some of Beijing’s most famous sites without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and transfers. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, historical insights, or just want a day out that covers a lot of ground, this tour offers a balanced, budget-friendly option.