Nestled within the Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall, No. 21 Watchtower sits in Bohai Town, Huairou District, about 70 kilometers northeast of downtown Beijing. To reach it, you’ll first arrive at the main Mutianyu Great Wall entrance, where a steep climb or cable car ride (recommended for saving energy) will lead you to the wall. From there, hiking along the winding path for roughly 40 minutes brings you to this hidden gem. Pro tip: Visit on a clear day—the views of Jiankou and Simatai in the distance are worth it!

Getting There

  • By car: Rent a vehicle or join a guided tour. The drive from central Beijing takes ~1.5 hours via the Jing承 Highway.
  • Public transport: Take Bus 916 to Huairou, then transfer to Bus X1 toward Mutianyu. Alternatively, book a private taxi from downtown for convenience.
  • Opening hours: Seasonal! Check online, but generally 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (winter) or 6:00 PM (summer).

Natural Scenery: A Photographer’s Dream

No. 21 Watchtower isn’t just a historic site—it’s a postcard-perfect spot. Surrounded by lush forests and jagged mountains, the watchtower offers 360-degree views of undulating walls disappearing into the horizon. In spring, wildflowers blanket the hills, while autumn paints the landscape in fiery reds and oranges. On foggy days, the wall looks like it’s floating above cloud seas—trust me, you’ll want a wide-angle lens!

History & Culture: Guardian of the Wall

Originally built during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), No. 21 Watchtower served as a military stronghold. Its thick walls, narrow windows, and steep stairs reveal its defensive purpose. Local guides love sharing tales of how soldiers once used these towers to signal enemy attacks using smoke or fire. Fun fact: Unlike busier sections, this spot feels “untouched by time”—perfect for escaping crowds while still connecting with China’s past.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

  • Wear sturdy shoes: The steps are uneven, and some sections require scrambling.
  • Hydrate: Bring water, as few vendors exist near the watchtower.
  • Snacks: Pack light bites—there’s a small café near the main wall, but options dwindle as you hike farther.
  • Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses, and SPF are essential; the wall has little shade.

Facilities: Prepare Before You Go

While No. 21 Watchtower itself is rugged, the main Mutianyu Great Wall area has decent amenities:

  • Restrooms: Available near the entrance and cable car station.
  • Souvenir shops: Buy kitschy statues, postcards, or traditional snacks.
  • Lockers: Store bags if you don’t want to hike with them.
  • Food: Try jianbing (Chinese crepes) or hot pot at the visitor center—pricey but tasty.

The Adventure: Why Hike Here?

Hiking to No. 21 Watchtower is part challenge, part reward. The path is narrow at times, with steep ascents that make your legs burn—but the panorama from the top makes every step worth it. Insider tip: Go early morning or late afternoon. At noon, the sun beats down harshly, and tour groups flock here. For an extra thrill, explore the unrestored sections beyond the watchtower, though they require caution.

Final Thoughts: A Hidden Gem

If you’re tired of the crowded Badaling section, No. 21 Watchtower offers a peaceful alternative. It’s less famous but equally stunning—think fewer selfie sticks and more moments to absorb the grandeur of China’s iconic landmark. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or photographer, this spot should be on your Beijing bucket list. Just remember: The journey is the reward!