Tour The Great Wall Of China From Beijing

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization data in 2008, the People’s Republic of China ranked fourth among the most-visited countries in the world, with a whopping tourist arrivals pegged at 53 million. Wow! That sure is a lot of tourists, and there is in fact little surprise to that, knowing that this country has many notable natural and man-made wonders known throughout the world.

As China’s capital, Beijing is one of the major gateways of the country. This translates to increased occupancy rates in Beijing hotels, more shoppers in malls and diners in fine restaurants, eventually leading to increased tourist receipts vital in pump-priming their economy.

The Great Wall is one of the most famous landmarks in the country. Just a year ago, it was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Stretching from the Northeastern shores of the seaside town of Shanhaiguan to the cold and mountainous Gansu Province in the Northwest, this structure spans 8,852 kilometers (5,488 miles).

The Great Wall is a chain of stone and earthen defenses that were constantly built, rebuilt and maintained between the 5th and 16th centuries to safeguard the country from invading Mongolians and other tribes. It also provided protection to the country’s economic and cultural progress, watched over the Silk Route and secured the transmission of information and transportation. Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, facilitated the construction of the wall and the emperors of the Ming Dynasty continued and brought the wall to its present state.

The Great Wall is not just a wall. Throughout its stretch, defensive structures can be seen such as forts, passes and beacon towers which were once used to house soldiers, store grain and weapons and transmit military information.

Although the Great Wall can be treasured throughout the year, the best time to see it is during spring and autumn, primarily to avoid multitudes of people. In spring, one could see the flowers abloom with pastel colors and the lush greenery, creating an atmosphere of freshness. In the winter, when it is glacial, the surrounding terrains and the wall itself are blanketed with snow, making it the perfect time for one to see the entirety of the wall. From Beijing, a 65-minute bus drive will get you to Badaling, which is the most accessible site. Other sites are Mutianyu and Jinshanling. Many Great Wall tours are available form Beijing hotels.

The Great Wall of China is one of mankind’s best achievements. You should dress suitably for the season, bring a versatile camera, and be open and friendly to co-travelers. Wherever you stay, be it in Beijing hotels or in any accommodations from other neighboring areas, you must take time to visit this wonder.

E. Larson is a long time resident of Bejing and works closely with the Taiyue Suites Hotel Bejing.