Originally Posted by jiejie

If you are in good shape and prefer a tour or just being with other people, the best tours for the money are probably those offered through the hostels (Downtown Backpackers and Leo's) put out two good ones. They usually go to good spots, do not do any of the dreaded factory tours or shopping trips, and you don't have to be staying at the hostel to sign on. But they will require the ability to hike. Otherwise, I would just get a private driver--follow some of this year's threads on this forum and you'll come up with some recommendations. Mutianyu is normally a good place that balances off reasonable accessibility, time effectiveness (can do it in a half-day trip rather than a full day) and attractiveness.