Best Whistle-Stop [1]: The Great Wall at Badaling [1] is great for visitors with a limited time frame: This portion of the Wall is located only 70 kilometers (43 mi) away from downtown Beijing and can be explored in just a few hours.
Best History Lesson [1]: Learn about the Great Wall in detail at the China Great Wall Museum [1] at Badaling. The museum boasts an assortment of exhibits covering the Wall’s purpose, construction, and upkeep.
Best Luxury Hotel [1]: The sprawling Commune by the Great Wall [1] features beautifully furnished rooms and a luxurious spa, and is easily the most opulent choice for an overnight visit to the Wall.
Best Value [1]: You’ll get your money’s worth (and then some) at Great Wall Box House [1], a cozy courtyard hostel with friendly staff, good facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Best Hiking [2]: Snake through craggy peaks and steep passes for the 10 kilometers (6 mi) between the Great Wall at Jinshanling and Simatai [2]; climb a few watchtowers to cap off a strenuous, but rewarding hike.
Best Scenery [3]: The stunning views around the Great Wall at Mutianyu [3] make it a treat for the eyes in all four seasons. This part of the Wall is at its most gorgeous in fall, when the trees turn orange.
Most Natural Beauty [4]: Lakes, forests, and undulating hills make the Great Wall at Huanghuacheng [4] a good choice for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/beijing-shanghai/the-great-wall/badaling
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/beijing-shanghai/the-great-wall/jinshanling-and-simatai
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/beijing-shanghai/the-great-wall/mutianyu
[4] http://www.moon.com/destinations/beijing-shanghai/the-great-wall/huanghuacheng