Beijing is not only the political center of China, but it is
also the most strategic city in the north. Many dynasties in Chinese
history actively built walls in this area. Among many historical
ruins of the Great Wall in Beijing, the wall built during the
Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) is the most often seen and best preserved,
running over 373 miles and containing about 827 city wall platforms,
71 passes and countless towers. Other famous 'great wall' sections
include the Badaling,
Huanghuacheng,
Mutianyu,
Jiankou,
Gubeikou,
Jinshanling
and Simatai
sections.
If you want to experience the culture and enjoy the beauty of
the Great Wall, meandering along the bricks of the Badaling Great
Wall is your first choice. It is famous for its deep-rooted culture,
magnificent sights and complete military facilities - the essence
of the Great Wall. You may find many pictures of it in magazines
and guide books and printed on stamps. Being the must-see section
of the Great Wall, it is sometimes flocked with visitors especially
during holidays. You may want to avoid the peak seasons or visit
the Mutianyu Great Wall instead. It is even more beautiful and
has fewer tourists. If you are nostalgic for old times, the Simatai
and Gubeikou sections should be on your itinerary. These two sections
are well maintained in their original states. The strong, primitive
walls enhance the beauty of the wilderness. If you are energetic
and daring, adventures on the Huanghuacheng and Jiankou sections
await you. The steep peaks and broken bricks will challenge your
courage and curiosity. Remember to bring complete a mountaineering
outfit, food and water. Water is unavailable on the wild sections.
Different sections of Beijing's Great Wall can satisfy many different
interests. Come and explore your favorite one!
