Every day, thousands of tourists worldwide plan their bucket-list trips to the Great Wall of China. Despite the wall’s 5,500-odd miles of terrain stretching from east to west across the country, most travelers find themselves at either the Badaling or Mutianyu sections, the two areas closest to Beijing.
These visitors typically rise early from their downtown hotels, cram themselves into vans, and wait in multi-hour queues to see the magnificent structures that comprise the Great Wall, navigating around groups of camera-toting tourists in hopes of snapping their own Instagram-worthy shot.
However, for those seeking an alternative experience, an hour-long drive north of the bustling capital leads to Commune by the Great Wall, a popular weekend getaway for Beijingers. Here, a series of modernist buildings form a luxury hotel, boasting award-winning design amid yellow-leaved gingko trees.
Beyond the usual amenities like an expansive breakfast buffet and cozy bed linens, Commune by the Great Wall provides a rare opportunity to simply walk to the Wall. Just 20 minutes by foot from the hotel reception lies the Shuiguan section of the wall, offering a serene contrast to the crowded tourist hubs.
Unlike the more frequented sections, Shuiguan features no long lines, no tour guides shouting into microphones, and no sea of buses in the parking lot. Tucked amid the mountains, the views from the highest turrets are breathtaking, and, more importantly, unobstructed.
Commune by the Great Wall is more than just a place to stay; it’s an albergo diffuso, or diffused hotel, where guests stay in a collection of buildings rather than one central structure. This unique setup can be initially confusing, resembling a luxury neighborhood development, but it enhances the overall experience.
The hotel was conceived by husband-and-wife developers Pan Shiyi and Zhang Xin, who initially envisioned upscale country houses for Beijing’s elite. The project evolved into a hotel, attracting a roster of top architects and designers to contribute their creations to Yangqing. A dozen renowned names from around Asia designed individual dwellings, resulting in a diverse architectural landscape.
Pritzker Prize winner Shigeru Ban crafted the “Furniture House,” integrating chairs and tables into the structure, inspired by the resilience of heavy furniture after earthquakes. Hong Konger Gary Chang’s “suitcase house” drew inspiration from micro-flats in his city, with hidden living spaces revealed by lifting sections of the floor.
Ai Weiwei, one of China’s most famous artists, served as the landscape designer, ensuring a harmonious blend with the environment. Commune by the Great Wall earned a special commendation at the Venice Architecture Biennale in 2002 when the 12 core buildings were completed.
In 2021, the hotel became part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, providing additional incentives for points loyalists. Looking ahead to 2024, plans for upgrading and renovating the original 12 buildings are underway due to wear and tear and some damage from floods in 2023.
Commune by the Great Wall offers travelers not just a place to stay but a unique and immersive experience, showcasing the beauty of the natural surroundings and the innovative designs of world-class architects. For those seeking an escape from the typical Great Wall tourist hubs, this hidden gem provides tranquility, luxury, and a closer connection to the marvels of ancient China.