Private Tour Mutianyu Great Wall and Ming Tomb with Options

Two of Beijing’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage sites—the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Ming Tombs— await on this thoughtfully curated full-day private tour. Priced at $102 per person, it offers an ideal way to experience these historic marvels without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or train station in a comfortable private vehicle, with options for either just a driver or an English-speaking guide, making it flexible to your preferences.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is how it balances convenience and authenticity. First, visiting the less crowded Mutianyu section means you can enjoy the sweeping views and ancient stonework at your own pace—something that often gets lost at busier parts like Badaling. Second, the visit to the Ming Tombs allows for a deeper understanding of China’s imperial past, with only three tombs open for public viewing, including the impressive underground palace of Dingtomb.

One thing to keep in mind is that the car ride from Beijing to Mutianyu takes about 1.5 hours. During weekends or public holidays, traffic can cause delays, so leaving early is recommended if you want to beat the crowds. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day with flexible timing, especially if you’re traveling with family or have limited time in Beijing.

Key Points

• All-inclusive pricing with entrance tickets and shuttle bus rides
• Flexible departure times to suit your schedule
• Expertly guided options available for a richer experience
• Comfortable private transport from your hotel or station
• Access to less crowded sections of the Great Wall
• Insightful visit to the Ming Tombs with a focus on the Dingtomb and underground palace

Exploring the Mutianyu Great Wall: A Closer Look

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is one of China’s most scenic and well-preserved stretches. About 70 to 75 km from downtown Beijing, the drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. While this may sound like a long haul, the journey is well worth it for the chance to see a less touristy, more authentic part of the Wall.

What sets Mutianyu apart is its stunning natural setting—winding through mountains and valleys—and its dense watchtower network. The Zhengguan Terrace is a highlight, with three watchtowers side-by-side on a single platform, a rare sight in other sections. The scenery here is a perfect combo of lush forests, ancient stones, and sweeping vistas.

Expect to spend about 3 hours at this site. The entrance fee is included, as is the internal shuttle bus for uphill and downhill travel. Many visitors love the fact that they can explore at their own pace, taking photos or just soaking in the landscape without feeling rushed. If you’re feeling energetic, you might want to add the optional cable car or toboggan ride (not included), but even without these, it’s a fulfilling experience.

From reviews, we see many travelers enjoying the early start to beat the crowds. One reviewer mentions, “Linda picked us up at 6:30, and we were able to enjoy the wall before the busloads arrived.” This is a good tip for those who really want a more peaceful visit.

The Ming Tombs: A Journey into Imperial China

After exploring the Wall, the tour continues with a visit to the Ming Tombs, located roughly 40 km away in Changping District. The drive takes about an hour, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery. Covering 40 square kilometers, this complex is the burial site for 13 Ming emperors, along with empresses, princes, and princesses.

The tombs are some of the best-preserved imperial tombs in China, making them fascinating to explore. However, only three tombs are open to the public, with the highlight typically being the Dingtomb, which features an underground palace—a real highlight for history buffs.

Your ticket includes entry to Dingtomb, giving you a glimpse into the grandeur of Ming Dynasty burial practices. Many reviews highlight the value of this visit, with one saying, “The tombs are beautifully preserved, and the underground palace is quite impressive.” It’s a quiet, contemplative contrast after the expansive views from the Wall.

Transportation and Comfort: What You Need to Know

Depending on the option you select, your experience will include either a private car with a basic English-speaking driver or an English-speaking tour guide. Both options offer complete flexibility, and the vehicles are air-conditioned and comfortable.

The round-trip transportation from your Beijing hotel, airport, or train station ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or haggling with taxis— a big relief for most travelers. Bottled water is provided, and you can request additional comforts like baby seats or winter coats.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, relaxing day with guided insights, this tour is perfect—especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer a flexible schedule. The less crowded Mutianyu section offers a more contemplative experience, and the visit to the Ming Tombs adds depth to your understanding of China’s imperial past.

However, if you’re eager to explore other parts of Beijing or want a more in-depth guide-led experience, you might consider supplementing this tour with additional sites or guided activities. But for value, comfort, and seeing two iconic sites in one day, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This private tour is a fantastic way to experience two of Beijing’s most significant historical sites without the stress of organizing your own transfers or tickets. The all-inclusive fee means you can focus on enjoying the scenery, taking photos, and absorbing the history. Its flexibility in departure times and the option to choose guides or just a driver** make it adaptable for different travel styles and schedules.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a more peaceful and authentic visit—thanks to the quieter Mutianyu section—and for those who appreciate a well-informed guide to enhance their understanding. The overall glowing reviews about knowledgeable guides and stunning views speak volumes about the quality of this experience.

If you’re staying in Beijing for a few days and want to make the most of a full day outside the city, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a comfortable, hassle-free way to see two of China’s most treasured landmarks in one go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip private vehicle transportation from your Beijing hotel, airport, or train station is included.

Can I choose my departure time? Yes, the tour offers flexible morning departure options to work with your schedule. During weekends and holidays, leaving early is recommended.

Are entrance fees included? All entrance tickets, including to the Mutianyu Great Wall and the Ming Tombs (Dingtomb), are covered in the tour price.

What if I want to visit the Great Wall cable car or toboggan? These optional tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you wish to add those experiences.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children under 5 years old can join for free, and the comfortable private transport is suitable for families.

Can I customize the stopover duration? Yes, the flexible departure and stopover times mean you can spend as much or as little time as you’d like at each site.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, or umbrellas is advised in summer.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes about 8 to 9 hours, covering transport, sightseeing, and breaks.

Do I need a guide? You can choose between just a driver or an English-speaking guide for a more informative experience. Both options include the key site visits.

In summary, this tour offers a smooth, well-balanced way to see two of China’s most iconic sites, with the convenience and comfort that make sightseeing enjoyable. Whether you’re a history buff, a landscape lover, or simply want to check off these highlights from your Beijing itinerary, it’s a trip worth considering.