The Great Wall of China is a structure that has been built on the northern part of ancient China since the 7th century BC. Set along the northern border of China, the length runs approximately 8,851 kilometers, making it the longest man-made structure in the world. It is an impressive piece of architecture, created with a combination of natural and man-made barriers, such as trenches and embankments, with designed walls and fortifications to protect the northern border of the country.
For centuries, the formidable Great Wall of China has been a source of fascination and awe for both locals and tourists alike. Its rugged and steep terrain is a testament to the determination and courage of its builders and its unique design makes it one of the most remarkable engineering feats of all time.
When travelling to the Great Wall of China, it is essential to wear suitable clothing, as it can be cold and wet in the winter, whilst in the summer the sun can be extremely hot. A good pair of boots and sturdy clothing are always recommended. If the weather is good, it is a great spot for hiking, mountain climbing and camping - all of which can be done in a day.
The best way to experience the Great Wall is by visiting one of the many sections that has been restored for tourists. It is recommended that travellers spend at least 2 days visiting the wall, as there is so much to see and do in the area.
The most popular section of the Wall is the Badaling section, which is located 70 kilometers northwest of Beijing. Here, the wall snakes its way over the rugged mountains and valleys, with breathtaking views of the countryside. This section is well-restored, meaning that visitors can get an idea of how the wall looked in its glory days. The Jinshanling section of the Great Wall also offers stunning views, but is considerably less restored – meaning that visitors will be able to see the crumbling walls and parts of the wall that have not yet been renovated.
The Mutianyu section is the farthest from Beijing and the least visited. The section runs into the air, with a network of towers, watchtowers and passes that seem to ascend into the clouds. The area has been restored so that visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of the outside landscape, which includes stunning rolling hills and lush vegetation.
One of the best ways to experience the Great Wall is by taking part in a day-long excursion in a custom-built car. This gives visitors the chance to explore the wall from top to bottom, climb up the steps and get close to many of the watchtowers.
The Great Wall of China is often seen as a symbol of peace and unity, as well as hinting at an important cultural and historic timeline. And while its main purpose was to protect China from its enemies, it has since become a major tourist attraction and an essential part of an international vacation. Those looking for an adventure-filled holiday should definitely include a visit to the Great Wall of China on their list of must-dos.
