Grande Muraille de Simatai - Billets, heures d'ouverture, points forts et conseils

Simatai Great Wall (司马台长城) is a section of the Great Wall of China located in Beijing, about 120 km northeast of the city center. It is known for its steep gradients, narrow paths, and picturesque views. Simatai Great Wall is one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The wall at Simatai was first built during the Northern Qi Dynasty (550-577 AD) and was later renovated and expanded during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD). The section is characterized by its unique features such as the double-layered walls, densely packed watchtowers, and steep staircases.

Simatai Great Wall is divided into two parts: the eastern section and the western section. The eastern section is known for its steep gradients and 15 watchtowers, while the western section is famous for its 20 watchtowers and stunning scenery.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities at Simatai Great Wall, such as hiking, camping, and sightseeing. The best time to visit is during the autumn when the foliage turns golden and the weather is mild. Simatai Great Wall is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Table des matières

Informations de base
Localisation et transport
Highlights of Simatai Great Wall
Vlog about Simatai Great Wall
Conseils utiles résumés à partir d'études
Facts about Simatai Great Wall
Autres sections des Grandes Murailles de Pékin

Informations de base

Site web	http://www.wtown.com/
Durée estimée de la visite	Plus de 3 heures
Prix du billet	The wall: 40 RMB Admission + Single-Way cable car: 110 RMB Admission + Return cable car: 180 RMB Night Tour (Admission to the wall + return cable car): 160 RMB
Heures d'ouverture	Day tour: 9.00 – 17.00; Last admission: 15.00 Night tour: 18.30 – 20.40 (1st May – 31st October) 17.30 – 20.10 (1st November – 30th April the next year)
Numéro de téléphone	0086-010-81009999

Localisation et transport

Simatai Great Wall is located in the northeastern part of Beijing, in the Gubeikou Town of Miyun County. It is situated on the rugged mountains and ridges of the Yanshan range, which stretches across northern China.

You can take a coach at Dongzhimen Station (东直门) and then transfer to the shuttle bus at Gubei Water Town. The whole journey takes about 3 hours. Alternatively, you can use the private transfer service, which will pick you up at your hotel or home and take you directly to Simatai Great Wall.

Highlights of Simatai Great Wall

Steep Gradients and Narrow Paths

The steep gradients and narrow paths of the Simatai Great Wall are some of its most challenging and exciting features. The wall is built along a rugged mountain range, and the terrain is steep and uneven. The gradients are so steep that visitors often need to use their hands to climb up or down. The narrow paths are only wide enough for one person to pass through at a time, adding to the wall’s sense of adventure and exploration. These features also made it more difficult for invading armies to scale the wall, making it a crucial military fortification during ancient times.

Double-Layered Walls

Unlike most sections of the Great Wall, which have a single-layered wall, the Simatai section has two layers of walls. The inner wall is higher and thicker than the outer wall, providing extra protection against invaders. The walls were built using bricks and stones, and they have stood the test of time, with some sections dating back to the 6th century. The double-layered walls are a testament to the wall’s advanced construction and engineering techniques, and they offer visitors a rare glimpse into the ancient military defenses of China.

Watchtowers

The Simatai Great Wall is renowned for its dense and compact watchtowers, which played a crucial role in the defense of the wall. There are a total of 35 watchtowers in the eastern and western sections of the wall, with varying shapes and sizes. The watchtowers were strategically placed along the wall to provide maximum visibility and communication between the different sections. Visitors can climb up the watchtowers and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some of the watchtowers have been restored to their original condition, while others have been modified for easier access.

Night Tours

Simatai Great Wall is one of the few sections of the Great Wall that offers night tours, providing visitors with a unique and unforgettable experience. During the night tour, the wall is illuminated with soft lights, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can explore the wall under the stars, taking in the peaceful and serene surroundings. The night tours also offer a break from the crowds and heat of the day, making it a perfect option for those who prefer a more relaxed and intimate experience.

Beauté naturelle

Simatai Great Wall is not only renowned for its impressive military architecture and engineering, but also for its stunning natural beauty. The wall is built on rugged mountains and ridges, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and panoramic views. Visitors can take scenic walks and hikes, exploring the surrounding forests, valleys, and lakes. The nearby Miyun Reservoir and Gubei Water Town offer a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Beijing city.

Vlog about Simatai Great Wall

Conseils utiles résumés à partir d'études

Duration and Physical Preparation: Climbing the entire length of Simatai Great Wall typically takes around 4 hours, with half the time spent ascending and the other half descending. It’s essential to be well-prepared with sunscreen and carry an ample supply of water. If you’re not confident in your physical stamina, it’s advisable to consider taking the cable car for either the ascent, descent, or both.

Challenging Terrain: Some sections of the wall feature high and narrow steps, requiring careful footing. Additionally, certain segments lack the protective barrier of the wall, with cliffsides secured only by iron chains. This can be particularly daunting for those with a fear of heights.

Scenic Highlights: The most breathtaking scenery at Simatai Great Wall is concentrated between Watchtowers 4 and 10. Some of these watchtowers offer views through their doorways that seem to overlook sheer cliffs and precipices. From Watchtower 9 to 10, you’ll encounter the flattest section of the west segment, with two watchtowers perched precariously atop rocky outcrops, flanked by steep cliffs on either side, creating a truly awe-inspiring vista.

Day or Night Visit: Simatai Great Wall can be visited both during the day and at night. Night tours offer a unique perspective, especially during the summer when the scenery is illuminated. However, it’s important to note that during night tours, only a small section of the Great Wall, typically from Watchtowers 5 to 6, is open for exploration. Additionally, there are time restrictions on nighttime visits. If you’re unable to catch the sunset, the experience may not be as rewarding, making it more suitable for photography enthusiasts.