Jiuyanlou is the largest watchtower on the Great Wall and boasts the most arrow slits—nine on each of its four sides, totaling 36. It is hailed as the “First Watchtower of the Great Wall.” This article provides a detailed overview of its location at the junction of the Inner and…
Jiankou is Beijing’s most treacherous section of the Wild Great Wall. Its three notorious “gates of death ”—the “Heavenly Ladder,” “Eagle’s Flight,” and “Beijing Knot”—have left countless hikers trembling. This article breaks down the Zhengbeilou Viewing Platform, its archaeological-style restoration, essential gear, and safety warnings. Recommended only for well-prepared adventurers;…
When people think of the Great Wall, the image that comes to mind for most is that of a gray dragon coiled along a barren, dry, and desolate mountain ridge—exposed to the wind and sun, lonely and rugged. But if you visit the Huanghua Water Great Wall in Jiuduhe Town,…
The Jinshanling Great Wall, rebuilt under the supervision of Qi Jiguang, features the “Three Architectural Wonders”—inscription bricks, parapets, and horse-stopping walls—making it a favorite section of the Great Wall among photographers. This article provides a detailed guide to the three iconic photo spots, hiking routes, transportation tips to avoid pitfalls,…
Simatai is the only section of the Great Wall that retains its original Ming Dynasty appearance, and it is also the only Great Wall site in the country open for night tours. This article provides a detailed explanation of the history behind the “ inscribed bricks,” the Heavenly Ladder, Fairy…
Many foreign friends visiting Beijing for the first time specifically ask to go to Badaling. That’s fine—Badaling is indeed spectacular. But the Juyongguan section of the Great Wall also has its own unique historical significance and scenic beauty. ⭐Visiting Juyongguan for the First Time: 6 Things You Should Know Your…
Beijing’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, it once served as the “home” of Emperors Yongzheng and Qianlong. With its yellow tiles and red walls, it’s even more majestic than the Forbidden City. Direct access via Subway Lines 2 and 5; admission is 25 yuan (about $3.50). The site features an 18-meter-tall…
The Mutianyu Great Wall is the most scenic and versatile section of the Great Wall in Beijing. This article provides a detailed overview of its history, architectural wonders (the Main Watchtower and double-sided crenellations), options for cable cars, ropeways, and toboggans, the best hiking routes, prime photography spots, and tips…
Many first-time visitors to Beijing, when planning a trip to the Great Wall, immediately think of Badaling. Visiting Beijing for the First Time and Not Sure Which Section of the Great Wall to Choose? Start Here If this is your first time in Beijing and you’re planning just one Great…
