Great Wall of China - one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World

Great Wall of China - one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World

Any visit to China would be incomplete without walking the Great Wall of China. The Chinese believe that if you have not been to the Great Wall at least once in your life, you are not really human.

Considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China is the largest human-built structure in the world and is 2,119.18 kilometers long, although currently only about 5,000 kilometers. Along the mountains to the north of Beijing are many great spots to hike the Wall of China. But which parts are best for walking?

Here is some information about the history of this amazing building:

As we all know the Great Wall of China was built to defend the northern border of China. It dates back to the years 770-256 BC. When the emperors of the state built defensive devices around the borders. Therefore, you will find watchtowers, beacon towers, and many castles in different areas of the wall.

Over time, many emperors of different dynasties restored and rebuilt the Great Wall. The largest amount of work occurred in the Ming Dynasty, about 500 years ago.

In recent decades, the Chinese government has worked hard to restore and preserve this priceless cultural heritage. A more complex renovation was carried out at Badaling in 1957.

Sections of the Great Wall of China in the Beijing area:

In Beijing, there are four sections of the Great Wall of China which are the most famous. Each of them has unique attractions. If you have enough time and money we suggest you visit all parts of it. Otherwise, choose one section and enjoy the experience because we are sure that it will not be compared to anything else.

Great Wall of China - Badaling

The Badaling section has undergone massive restoration. Here you'll find travelers of all kinds, from fashion forwards and ladies in heels to sporty gents. This is a sign that Badaling is for everyone. After the walk, we recommend that you take the cable car back.

Badaling also has the majority of souvenir sellers. They tend to insist that visitors buy from them, so don't be surprised that someone will follow you even meters away trying to sell you something.

Great Wall of China - Juyongguan

The Great Wall of China at Juyongguan is famous for its strategic military importance. The Chinese described Juyongguan as "one guard, whose walls ten thousand soldiers could not pass".

Apart from its strategic location, Juyongguan is famous for the beauty of the surrounding landscape. This part of the wall is built over a 15 km long valley, surrounded by mountains and forests. In fact, Juyongguan is one of the most picturesque places near Beijing.

It can be very difficult to get around this section of the wall. However, you must be properly equipped to walk on smooth floors.

Great Wall of China - Simatai

Simatai is said to be the most authentic, quietest but also the most dangerous section of the Great Wall of China.

And because Simatai is still in its original state you have to be very careful when walking because there are a lot of bricks and ruins that can fall from one moment to the next. However, if you want to visit the authentic wall that has been untouched for 500 years, this is the place to go.

Great Wall of China - Mutianyu

Visiting the Great Wall of China through Mutianyu might be your best option. Since it's been well restored, it's close to Beijing and it's not always crowded and you won't have to make an extraordinarily physical effort to get by. In addition, the surrounding landscape is beautiful all year round.

If you are very tired or if you are with children, you can choose to travel by cable car. However, the real experience of the Great Wall of China is only living on its feet.