I want to go to Mutianyu on Sunday March 16 with my friend. Other than hiring a private car, what is the best way to get there and back?

I just joined a tour which included lunch and some tombs. Tickets were being sold by the hotel and cost about RMB180. I was picked up & dropped off at the hotel & included an English speaking tour guide.

Leo Hostel seems to run a good no-frills tour: http://www.leohostel.com/index_files/leotours.htm

Your best way without hiring a car is to use Sightseeing bus "You 6" which runs from Xuanwumen or Dongsishitian to Mutianyu, however, I think it only runs in summer. www.chinahighlights.com/beijing/transport/sightseeing-bus.htm.

Don't know if this is the alternate way for you, there is a green & white bus (I believe is #916) that runs from Dongzhimen bus station to Huairou, make sure it's the express bus and it takes an hour, from Huairou, take a taxi to Mutianyu. It requires a lots of asking around for direction and it may be difficult for you if you don't speak the laungage. I hope you enjoy Mutianyu as I did.

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I took the bus #916. I'm not looking for ratings, but instead of copy/pasting my tip, have a look here:
http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/a924a/fa3c0/4/#1402905