The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic structures in the world. This magnificent building is one of the seven wonders of the medieval world, and it is 13,170 miles long. It was built over a period of about 2000 years by successive dynasties in China, and it was primarily built as a defense mechanism.
Location
The Great Wall of China stretches across several provinces in China. It starts in the east at Shanhaiguan, Hebei province, and ends in the west at Jiayuguan Pass, Gansu province.
Why was it built?
The Great Wall of China was primarily built as a defense mechanism against enemy invasions. The Wall was built during a tumultuous time in Chinese history when rival states constantly fought for dominance.
Types of Great Wall
There are different types of Great Wall sections to visit, such as Mutianyu, Jinshanling, Badaling, and Simatai. Each section offers unique features, and visitors will love the hiking that comes with each.
Mutianyu
Mutianyu is among the most beautiful and popular Great Wall sections, where visitors often opt to take a cable car or ski-lift to the top. For those looking for a more traditional way to treek the wall, hiking is a great option. Mutianyu is surrounded by lush green hills and valleys, and you can take a few minutes to appreciate the beautiful scenery that abounds it.
Jinshanling
If you are the type that prefers to have a spectacular overview of the Great Wall, then Jinshanling is the right place to be. You can take a helicopter ride to get a breathtaking top view of the Great Wall. The Jinshanling Great wall is found in Heibei Province and takes roughly three hours’ drive.
Badaling
Badaling is the most visited and well-preserved section of the Great Wall. It is also the most recommended section of the wall for first-time visitors, as it offers the easiest and safest walk up to the wall’s ramparts. Badaling receives plenty of both national and international tourists, and it is crowded year-round. To appreciate Badaling, one must find the best climate conditions to visit the wall.
Simatai
The Simatai wall section is situated on the eastern side of the Great Wall of China. It is approximately 12 miles away from the Jiankou wall, which is another famous section to visit. Simatai is remarkably steep, dominant, and has some scenic surroundings, and therefore one must be careful when exploring the section.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Great Wall of China is during the fall (September-October). The weather is mild during the day, the skies are clear, and the crowds are smaller. During the Spring Festival (February), the Great Wall is also a great place to visit because you can participate in the traditional Chinese New Year customs that are often done on the wall.
Conclusion
The Great Wall of China is a historical, remarkable, and beautiful structure that depicts China’s illustrious history. It is worth the visit of anyone interested in going on a historical tour to experience China’s past, present, and future. Plan your trip to the Great Wall, and you will not be disappointed!
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