visit wild great wall with kids

Question

My kids (3 very athletic 9-14 year old boys) really want to see a part of the wild wall, but I'm not about to take them to the most dangerous bits. I read that someone took kids from Jiankou village, hiked 20 min to the wall, then 2 hours to Mutianyu. This sounds perfect, but I can't find Jiankou village on any maps. He hired a guide form Beijing. Anyone know how to get there and whether I can find a guide in the village? Thanks so much,Rachel

Leo · Answer

What you talked about is the east section of Jiankou. It is relatively easier to climb compared with other parts. There is no Jiankou Village. The most famous village at the foot of this section of wall is Xizhazi. As you are going to hike the east section, you are advised to start from the second team of the village. You can find a local villager as your guide. They must be very familiar with the wall. But I'm afraid they cannot speak English.

Rachel · Answer

I can speak Chinese passably, although my family cannot. I read that you need a guide to get to the wall because the path is hard to find, but do you know whether it is necessary to have a guide once you are on the wall and headed towards Mutianyu. I've read about the detour to bypass Oxhorn edge. Is it obvious? Also, what might I expect to pay a guide from the village to the wall or from village to past the detour?Thanks for answering!Rachel

Nick · Answer

The signs for hiking are not quite clear. Instead of having a tour guide, you can simply find a local or a Chinese traveler as companion.

Visit wild great wall with kids

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