Visiting the Badaling Great Wall from Beijing has never been easier thanks to the new high-speed bullet trains. The journey from Beijing North (30mins) or Qinghe stations (19mins) is very short, making it a quick and convenient trip. We booked ticket on the official railways 12306.cn app. We registered via the website and then used our app to book, change or cancel our bookings on the go. The app was very user friendly and an easy tool to use.
We could have used a bus or the suburban train S2, but we wanted comfortable seats and not jostle for space alongside the crowd. We headed to the Badaling section of the Great Wall and were genuinely impressed by the efficiency and convenience of China Railways. The bullet train service from Beijing—whether you depart from Qinghe (we arrived at this station when we returned from the wall) or Beijing North station (we used this station when we went to Badaling) —makes it incredibly easy to reach the Wall in just about 20 minutes. It’s worth double-checking your departure station since Beijing has several. Although the train ride itself is quick, the process includes security checks and check-in procedures, so give yourself a bit of extra time. Still, the reward is a fast, comfortable ride with an assigned seat and no traffic hassles—by far the best transport option available.
Our departure photos are Beijing North (Beijingbei) station.
The bullet train to Badalingchang is clean, modern, and runs with impressive punctuality. In the standard class, the seating is arranged five across—two seats on one side of the aisle and three on the other. The seats are comfortable and assigned, ensuring a smooth and orderly boarding experience.
Arriving at Badalingchang Railway Station is an experience in itself. This spectacular underground station is built right beneath the Great Wall, and it’s said to be one of the deepest high-speed railway stations in the world. After disembarking, you take two impressively long escalators up to the surface. From the station, turn left for an easy walk to the Wall entrance, or turn right if you’d prefer to take a cable car ride up the mountain. The station even features China’s second-longest escalator, an 88-meter marvel that ascends 42 meters, ensuring a smooth exit. To make the most of this efficient travel option, passengers should arrive at least 12 minutes before departure due to the station’s depth.
The station is located just 150 meters from the north cable car terminal and 450 meters from the main hiking entrance—visitors can access the Great Wall with ease. We opted for the walk, which was a pleasant and manageable stroll.
The infrastructure around the Wall is outstanding—well-organized, clean, and equipped with everything a traveler might need, from clean restrooms to food and drink options. We could easily buy tickets on arrival and there was no problem.
Standing atop the Wall, knowing it stretches over 21,000 kilometers, was truly awe-inspiring. It’s no wonder this is one of the most celebrated wonders of the world—it’s absolutely amazing.
