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Interesting Facts About the Great Wall of China
Looking for fun facts about the Great Wall of China? A visit to The Great Wall is a must for anyone traveling to China. Whether it be for its breathtaking views, an amazing feat of human ingenuity, or historical importance, The Great Wall will be a memorable experience that you will be talking about for the rest of your life. However, there are some considerations to think about in planning your trip to maximize your enjoyment.
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Interesting Facts About the Great Wall of China
Choose Your Location
When planning your visit to the Great Wall of China, the most important factor to consider is the location you choose to visit. There are several parts of the wall that you can explore, and the quality of your experience will greatly depend on your choice. The most popular part of the wall is Badaling, largely due to its affordability, convenience, and fame. For those on a budget, you can join a group tour bus for an inexpensive option. If you're short on time, Badaling is one of the closest sections to Beijing and offers frequent guided tours. However, it's important to note that being the most well-known section, Badaling tends to be crowded and commercialized, with many local vendors trying to sell souvenirs, contributing to a less-than-ideal tourist experience. Additionally, being a popular spot, Badaling is more susceptible to scams and crime.
Travel Further From Beijing
Alternatively, to maximize your experience at the Great Wall, consider traveling further from Beijing to less crowded areas. One great alternative is Mutianyu, which is about an hour away from Beijing and not accessible by group shuttles. To visit Mutianyu, you'll need to schedule a guided tour, which includes a driver and a personal tour guide. The cost of the tour itself is relatively affordable, around $60 USD, covering the tour, gas, and fees. However, it's recommended to tip both the driver and guide at the end of the tour.
Once at Mutianyu, you'll find far fewer tourists, creating a more serene atmosphere. Unlike some other sections of the wall, the portion at Mutianyu is largely intact and extends for a considerable distance. The area also offers picturesque views with the wall structure, trees, mountains, and sunsets, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, the tour guide at Mutianyu is knowledgeable about local history, international affairs, financial issues involving China, and more, providing valuable insights during your visit. You can even ask the guide to take photos for you, enhancing your overall experience.
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Interesting Facts About the Great Wall of China
Be Aware & Ask Questions
All of this might seem too good to be true, right? Well, there are some possible downsides depending on your level of patience and curiosity. I made a reservation (which is easily done at most hotels) thinking I would simply go to the Great Wall and back. But that's not the case. It turns out the tour company has arrangements with vendors along the way where you will make stops. For example, one-stop might be at the tombs of the Ming Dynasty. Fortunately, nobody will ask you for money, but instead, you'll receive an educational lesson about Chinese history during the Ming Dynasty.
Another stop might be at a jade factory, silk factory, or ceramic factory. All of these places are interesting, but all of them lead to a store where you will be encouraged to make a purchase. However, you are not obligated to do so. I've heard stories of tour guides pretending to run out of gas or having their vehicle break down, but I'm not sure how often that happens. Also, due to all these stops, you may not want to make any evening plans because the tour lasts all day and is quite tiring.
Timing
Another thing to consider is timing. The Great Wall can get very cold during the winter months, so be sure to check the average temperatures in Beijing and remember that it will be even colder on the wall. Also, try to visit on a clear day if possible. The views are even more breathtaking without bad weather or the smog from the city.
Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and sneakers since there will be a lot of walking during your visit, especially if you opt for the Mutianyu tour.
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Interesting Facts About the Great Wall of China
With this advice in hand, you are ready to go out and see the beauty of one of the world's greatest wonders, the Great Wall of China. Enjoy and be safe!
