Beijing is a city full of culture and history, and one of the main attractions of the city is the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications that were built to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire from invasions by nomadic tribes. The wall is one of the most iconic monuments in the world and it is a must-see for any traveler visiting Beijing.
History of the Great Wall
The Great Wall of China was originally built during the Qin Dynasty in the 3rd century BC, and it has been added to and rebuilt over the centuries. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the wall was extensively rebuilt and it reached its current form. The wall stretches from Shanhaiguan in the east to Lop Lake in the west, and it is around 6,000 kilometers long.
The Sections of the Great Wall
The Great Wall is divided into several sections, each of which has its own unique features. The most famous section is the Badaling section, which is the closest to Beijing and is the most visited section of the wall. Other sections include Mutianyu, Jinshanling, Simatai, and Huanghuacheng.
Getting to the Great Wall
There are several ways to get to the Great Wall from Beijing. The easiest way is to take a bus from the city to one of the sections of the wall. Buses run regularly from Beijing to the Badaling section and other sections. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or hire a car with a driver.
Hiking the Great Wall
One of the best ways to experience the Great Wall is to hike it. There are several sections of the wall that are suitable for hiking, such as the Jinshanling and Mutianyu sections. Before you start your hike, it is important to wear appropriate footwear and to bring enough water and food.
Things to Do at the Great Wall
Once you are at the Great Wall, there are plenty of things to do. You can explore the various sections of the wall, take in the stunning views, and learn about the history of the wall. You can also take part in activities such as cable car rides, toboggan rides, and zip-lining.
Accommodation near the Great Wall
If you want to stay close to the Great Wall, there are several hotels and guesthouses in the area. The most popular accommodation options are the guesthouses near the Badaling section, which offer comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.
Conclusion
The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic monuments in the world and it is a must-see for any traveler visiting Beijing. There are several ways to get to the wall, and once you are there, you can explore the various sections, take in the stunning views, and take part in activities such as cable car rides and zip-lining.