Great Wall of China
- Admission:Free
Must-Do Experience, Off-the-Beaten Path, Walking/Hiking, Monument - Military, Ruin - Ancient
11:36 AM Friday, May 25
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The Great Wall of China is the greatest symbol of ancient Chinese engineering and one of the world's most famous structures. Its name in Chinese means 'Long Fortress', and it was built to protect the northern edge of the Chinese empire against invasions from Mongolian nomads.
All up, the Great Wall, including trenches and natural defensive features such as rivers, stretches 8,850km (5,500mi). It was begun in the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) on a very simple scale, and was expanded and fortified in the Ming Dynasty. Truth to tell, the Wall was never that effective against Mongol invasion, but eventually the threat abated anyway as the Mongol nomads were converted and assimilated.
A wander on the Great Wall these days takes you back to the Ming empire as well as affording you sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Latest Reviews All Great Wall of China Reviews »
Jason-tour guide
on time/early
Absolutely engaging full day-guide explained what we needed to get from tour-3 important points - Old Beijing, New Beijing, Axion
He chatted the entire tour- very informative and a joy as we went thru all the sights including ricksaw, Drum Tower, Great Wall
highly recommend but w/an engaging and delightful guide as JASON
Great trip and great guide great value.Excellent chinese style lunch as well.Well worth doing the gondola as there is still a few steps and you can do as much of the wall as you want
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Great tour at an unbeatable price! I'm so glad we chose this option. It was our first time in China and this was a great introduction for us. It covered all the basics - Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace and Forbidden City. It was the perfect mix between the must-see "tourist" attractions and cultural immersion we would not have been able to do on our own. Great sights, friendly people and amazing country! Continue Reading »
Practical Info
Much of the Great Wall is now in disrepair, but certain sections are maintained for visitors. One of the most popular is Badaling, close to Beijing; this section is often crammed with tourists.
The Mutianyu section offers a quieter alternative, also close to Beijing, This section features an optional cable car ride, or an opportunity to climb more than 1,400 steps to the top.
