Busda:Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Guided Bus Tour

Traveling through Beijing can feel overwhelming—so many sights, so many stories, and a lot of ground to cover. But if you’re looking for a well-organized, budget-friendly day that includes two of the city’s most iconic attractions, this Busda guided tour might just be your ideal introduction. For $29, you get a roughly nine-hour journey that takes you from the less-crowded Mutianyu Great Wall to the magnificent Summer Palace, complete with transportation, guided insights, and some optional extras.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its thoughtful pacing and focus on authenticity. You’ll enjoy more relaxed time at the Great Wall, avoiding the rush often found at the heavily visited Badaling section. Plus, the chance to stroll through the Summer Palace’s vast gardens and iconic corridors gives a glimpse into imperial leisure and grandeur.

A potential consideration is the added cost of optional upgrades like the cable car, toboggan, or ferry boat. These extras are tempting if you want the full experience but are not included in the base price. Also, be prepared for cash transactions at the Great Wall, as credit cards aren’t widely accepted there.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially good for those who value knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences over luxury or extended downtime. If you’re eager to see two major sights with a group and gain rich insights from your guide, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At only $29, this tour offers excellent value for a day spent exploring two top attractions.
• Balanced Itinerary: Enough time at both sites to appreciate their beauty without feeling rushed.
• Expert Guidance: Guides help with tickets and share interesting stories, enhancing your understanding.
• Optional Upgrades: Cable car, toboggan, and ferry boat available for a more immersive experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned bus ensures a smooth ride between sites.
• Practical Details: Starts early at 7:30 am, with a convenient meeting point and free cancellation.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Easy Meet and Knowledgeable Guides

The journey begins at a central Beijing meeting spot around 7:30 am. We liked the straightforward check-in—show your reservation and meet your guide, who will be wearing a green vest. The bus ride, which lasts about 1.5 hours, provides a chance for the guide to share tips on how to explore the Mutianyu section and help you purchase tickets.

What sets this apart is the guidance on ticket options, including the cable car and shuttle—perfect for those who want to avoid the strenuous climb or enjoy panoramic views without a hike. The guide’s helpful suggestions mean you’re well-prepared before stepping onto the Great Wall.

Exploring the Mutianyu Great Wall

Once there, you’ll collect your tickets and have the chance to ride the internal shuttle uphill. The Mutianyu section is known for its rugged beauty and fewer crowds—a noticeable contrast to Badaling. We loved the chance to walk along the winding wall and take in the stunning hillsides that frame it.

You can choose between the east or west line, each offering different perspectives and views. If you’re craving a bit of adventure, the optional cable car (140 RMB) and toboggan are fun extras, especially the sled-like ride down—an exhilarating way to conclude your visit.

Reviews highlight how “less crowded and more authentic” this part of the wall feels, allowing for a more relaxed experience. We also appreciated the internal shuttle that saves you from climbing steep steps, especially if you’re short on time or energy.

Transition to the Summer Palace

After about four hours at the Great Wall, the tour continues with a drive to the Summer Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a sprawling royal garden complete with lakes, pavilions, and the famous Longest Corridor covered in intricate paintings. The guided walk helps you understand the stories behind these structures—and offers plenty of photo opportunities.

The Imperial Garden and Optional Ferry

The highlight here is the walk along the corridor and a chance to board an Imperial Ferry Boat (extra 100 RMB). The boat ride on Kunming Lake offers a peaceful view of the Palace’s sprawling grounds, giving you a different perspective on this imperial retreat. As one reviewer mentioned, “The guide made the stories come alive, and the views from the boat are stunning.”

You’ll spend about three hours in total, enough time but not too long to feel rushed. The guide’s storytelling about the “Dragon Lady” and imperial life adds a layer of depth to your visit, making these historic sites more meaningful.

Ending the Day at Olympic Park

After the Palace, the trip concludes at Beijing Olympic Park, roughly 9 hours after departure. It’s a logical endpoint and easy for travelers to access public transportation from there.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Bring cash: The Great Wall area doesn’t accept credit cards, and optional upgrades like the cable car, toboggan, or ferry are paid in cash.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking and possibly hiking; sturdy shoes are a must.
• Consider optional extras: They add fun and convenience—especially the toboggan for a quick thrill or the cable car for panoramic views.
• Plan for the early start: Starting at 7:30 am helps you beat some crowds and makes the most of your day.
• Group size: The tour can host up to 47 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable group.
• Weather considerations: The tour relies on good weather; if conditions are poor, the guide may reschedule or refund.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

From the perspectives of travelers, the knowledgeable guides bring these sites to life with stories and helpful tips. One reviewer remarked, “Our guide was very knowledgeable, and we loved the way she explained the history behind each spot.” This human element makes a big difference when you’re trying to connect with the sites rather than just see them.

The stunning views at Mutianyu are consistently praised—less crowded than Badaling and offering better photo opportunities. The optional cable car and toboggan add a layer of fun, especially for those who want a quick thrill after a walk along the wall.

At the Summer Palace, the expansive gardens and intricate corridors give a sense of imperial leisure. The optional ferry boat grants you a relaxing break with beautiful vistas, which many travelers find worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Budget-conscious travelers looking for a comprehensive day in Beijing without breaking the bank
• Those wanting to see two iconic sights with the guidance of an expert who enhances your understanding
• Visitors preferring a relaxed pace and less crowded experiences, especially at the Great Wall
• Travelers interested in cultural stories and historic details, thanks to guides who bring the sites alive
• Tourists who don’t mind optional costs for a more personalized experience, such as the cable car or ferry

The Sum Up

This Busda guided bus tour offers excellent value for those eager to see Beijing’s highlights without the hassle of independent planning. The combination of the less crowded Mutianyu Great Wall with its stunning scenery and the vast, beautifully restored Summer Palace makes for a memorable day. The guided aspect ensures you gain insights that transform sightseeing into learning, and the optional extras allow flexibility for different interests.

While it’s not a luxury experience, it’s a practical, well-organized way to enjoy some of China’s most famous sites. The tour’s focus on authentic, less crowded spots and knowledgeable guides makes it especially appealing to travelers who want meaningful experiences rather than just ticking boxes.

In all, if you’re looking for a good-value, straightforward, and engaging tour that balances sightseeing with storytelling, this trip covers many bases and leaves plenty of room for personal discovery.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned bus is included, starting and ending at convenient locations in Beijing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing at each site, and optional extras.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at BXC99+GF8 in Chaoyang, Beijing, with an early start at 7:30 am.

Are tickets for the Great Wall included?
Yes, your entry tickets to Mutianyu Great Wall are included in the price.

Can I buy optional extras during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase optional upgrades like the cable car, toboggan, and ferry boat on-site based on your preferences.

What should I bring?
Cash for optional activities, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers can participate, consider the walking involved and optional attractions; the tour is generally suitable for most age groups with some mobility.

This guided tour offers a practical and authentic way to experience two of Beijing’s most treasured sites, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those short on time.