Great Wall (Mutianyu): cable car, toboggan and overnight train from Shanghai
The Great Wall at Mutianyu (慕田峪长城) is one of the most scenic and well-restored sections, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located 70 km from Beijing, surrounded by dense forests and mountains.
Our tour is the perfect way to see the wall without the crowds. You will depart from Shanghai on an overnight train, meet your guide in the morning, ascend to the wall by cable car, stroll along the ancient towers, and descend on a fun toboggan (slide). Everything is organized for comfort: private minivan with driver, Russian-speaking guide, help with tickets.
Sights along the route
What awaits you
- Evening departure from Shanghai — board the overnight train to Beijing (soft sleeper, about 12 hours). Sleep well and arrive in the morning.
- Meeting with the guide at Beijing railway station — a Russian-speaking guide will meet you with a sign and help with luggage.
- Transfer in a comfortable minivan — drive to the Mutianyu section (about 1.5 hours). Along the way, the guide will share history and legends of the wall.
- Cable car ascent — panoramic views of the mountains and forest, the ascent takes about 5 minutes.
- Walk on the Great Wall — you will have 2–3 hours to explore the towers, take stunning photos, and walk along the battlements.
- Lunch at a local restaurant — traditional Chinese cuisine (vegetarian options available).
- Toboggan descent (slide) — a fun descent on a special sledge controlled by a handle. Enjoyed by both children and adults.
- Return to Beijing — transfer to the station, free time (you can catch a Peking duck dinner).
- Overnight train back to Shanghai — departure in the evening, arrival the next morning.
Sample tour itinerary (train + day on the wall)
*Times may vary slightly depending on train schedules and season.
| Time | Program stage | Details and important notes |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1, 20:00 | Meeting at Shanghai railway station | Meeting with the guide at the entrance to Shanghai South Station (上海南站). Help boarding train D10. |
| 21:05 | Train departure to Beijing | Take soft sleeper berths. You can rest, watch movies, chat. |
| Day 2, 09:24 | Arrival in Beijing (South Station) | Exit, guide meets you. Transfer to the minivan. |
| 09:30 – 11:00 | Transfer to Mutianyu | About 1.5 hours drive. The guide shares stories about Beijing and the wall's history. |
| 11:00 – 11:15 | Ticket purchase | The guide buys tickets (entrance + cable car + toboggan). |
| 11:15 – 12:00 | Cable car ascent | Enjoy the panorama, take photos. |
| 12:00 – 14:30 | Walk on the wall | Free time. You can walk from tower 14 to tower 20 (about 2 km). |
| 14:30 – 15:30 | Lunch | Restaurant at the foot of the wall. Try dumplings and fried noodles. |
| 15:30 – 16:00 | Toboggan descent | Attraction for everyone. You can also descend by cable car if you prefer. |
| 16:00 – 17:30 | Return to Beijing | Transfer to the station. Optional short city tour along the way. |
| 17:30 – 19:00 | Free time / dinner | You can have dinner at a Peking duck restaurant (extra cost). |
| 19:30 | Departure of overnight train to Shanghai | Train D9 or similar. Sleeper berth, rest. |
| Day 3, 07:30 | Arrival in Shanghai | End of tour. You are rested and full of impressions. |
💡 Important notes:
- Footwear: comfortable, non-slip, as there are steps and uneven sections on the wall.
- Clothing: dress according to the weather; it's windy on the wall, so bring a light jacket even in summer.
- Toboggan: allowed for children from 3 years accompanied by an adult. Controlled by a hand brake – very safe.
- Documents: be sure to bring your passport (required for train boarding and wall entry).
- What to bring: phone charger, water, sunglasses, camera.
Price and conditions
Tour cost
Train + taxi
ComfortServices of a Russian-speaking guide, minivan transfer in Beijing, help with tickets, full organization of the itinerary.
All-inclusive (upon request)
PremiumGuide + train tickets (soft sleeper round trip) + entrance + cable car + toboggan + lunch + transfers.
Additional expenses per person
- Train ticket Shanghai–Beijing (soft sleeper, round trip)~1,950¥ (~$270)
- Train ticket (hard sleeper, economy)~1,590¥ (~$220)
- Great Wall entrance ticket (Mutianyu)40¥ (~$6)
- Cable car (round trip)140¥ (~$20)
- Toboggan (descent)100¥ (~$14)
- Lunch at restaurant60–100¥ (~$8–14)
- Transfer (per group up to 3 people)500¥ (~$70)
Duration
Additional services
What else to visit in Beijing
Frequently Asked Questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid for 2026 for private individuals. The cost may vary depending on the season and holidays. Booking requires a 100% prepayment (PayPal, card, bank transfer). The conversion rate is based on the central bank rate on the payment date.
Cancellation 48+ hours before the tour – full refund. Less than 48 hours – 50% refund (train tickets are purchased in advance). Less than 24 hours – 0% refund.
In case of bad weather, national holidays, or closure of facilities, the organizer may change the program or postpone the tour. Safety is a priority.
