THE GREAT WALL
Robert Nyman
The Great Wall of China is one of the 'Eight Wonders of the World' and in 1988 was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Directory.
Just like a gigantic dragon, it winds up and down across deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus, stretching approximately 21,196 kilometres from east to west of China. The only man-made structure visible from space, this immense wall originally spanned almost 6,700 kilometres from Shanhaiguan Pass in the east to Jiayuguan Pass in the west.
Built originally to keep out the marauding raiders from the North, most now lies in ruins, with the best parts close to Beijing preserved at Badaling; Mutianyu; Simatai and Jinshanling.
It is one of the greatest sights in the world and the longest wall in the world, an awe-inspiring feat of ancient defensive architecture and historical significance. Its winding path over rugged country and steep mountains takes in some great scenery.
Along this super long wall, Beijing ranks the top destination for its proper maintenance of the abundant wall relics of the Ming Dynasty. Badaling and Mutianyu are best sections to see neat and complete walls and beacon towers; while Simatai and Jinshanling offer challenging Great Wall hiking routes with open and wild scenery.
Hanson Lu
Badaling
“He who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true man; he who has not reached Badaling Great Wall has not reached the true Great Wall.”
Badaling Great Wall is much easier to get to the top as the stairs aren’t steep.The scenic site is divided into north and south sections, each of them with cable cars for ease. There are awesome and breathtaking views of the horizon especially from the highest watchtower, also known as the “Sun-watching Spot”, it is the perfect place to overlook the Great Wall.
Mutianyu
Its speciality has 22 blockhouses and watchtowers on it. The watchtowers on the Mutianyu Great Wall are clearly different from other sections. These are famous attractions known as Mutianyuguan or Three Buildings. Climbing up into a number of watchtowers, you can have a bird's eye view of the snake wall and its surrounding area. Due to the warm and humid climate, there is an abundance of plants spread over the mountains at Mutianyu. While you hike and explore the Great Wall here, you will encounter different plants in different seasons.
Leann Captures
Simatai
Simatai Great Wall is separated into east and west parts by the Mandarin Duck Lake. The west part is relatively gentle while the east part with 15 watchtowers on the 1000 m high peaks is steep and rugged, so remember to take strong shoes. The most dangerous parts in the east are 'Heavenly Ladder' and the 'Sky Bridge', they can make even the bravest person tremble with fear. People who like taking risks and seeking for adventure will be undoubtedly love the Simatai Great Wall. However the exhilarating scenery is a real feast to your eyes, so it is definitely a heaven for photographers.
Jinshanling
Viewing from the highest watchtower, the Jinshanling Great Wall looks like a giant dragon, snaking its way along the mountain ridges. It’s less crowded, more wild and authentic. The scenery varies from season to season. In spring, wild flowers fully blossoming all over the mountain, in summer, numerous green trees are shrouded in clouds and mist. In autumn, mountains of maple trees grow, the leaves turn several brilliant hues of red in the golden sunshine, making the fruitful autumn more colourful. In winter, the wall and mountains are all covered with snow, which become a silver world.
Bruce Rottgers
The best way to visit Jinshanling Great Wall is hiking. The Jinshanling section is a perfect fusion of military defense and architectural art. While you climbing the Jinshanling Great Wall, you can not only enjoy the stunning views on the wall. If you don’t want to climb, cable cars and shuttle buses are available for you to avoid the physically trek up to the wall.
For more information about The Great Wall and Tours on offer, visit https://www.easytourchina.com