The Great Wall is THE landmark of China. Walking up and down the wall like Mulan – Shoulders back, chest high, feet apart, head up – is a dream for all Disney fans. Disney fan or not, everyone knows the Great Wall of China, but what do we actually know about it?
The World Heritage Site was initially built to serve as a border and to protect the territories of the Chinese emperor. Standing on several observation towers, guards were able to alert others by a fire signal. Then, the towers in visible distance also started a fire to alert others of the threat.
Hard Facts:
- Start of construction: from about the 7th century BC
- Construction time: 2,000 years
- Width: 4 to 10 meters
- Height: 6 to 12 meters
- Length: 21,196.18 kilometers
- Opening hours: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
The World Heritage Site was initially built to serve as a border and to protect the territories of the Chinese emperor. Standing on several observation towers, guards were able to alert others by a fire signal. Then, the towers in visible distance also started a fire to alert others of the threat.
But what many do not know is that the Chinese Wall is not one continuous wall. In fact, it consists of over 43,000 individual objects and locations. Many sections were also built in completely different time periods. However, over 70 % of the Ming-era wall is in poor condition.
You want to make your Mulan dream come true or admire the World Heritage of China? We absolutely understand your feelings! Here are a few tips from us:
1. Badaling & Mutianyu
Worth a trip are the two most popular sections, Badaling and Mutianyu. Both sections are very well preserved or restored. However, in these places, you will not only see the wall of China, but also a wall of tourists.
2. Take advantage of the afternoon time
If you have more time, we recommend that you go to the Great Wall in the afternoon as tourist groups usually arrive in the morning.
3. Suitable footwear
The stones are very smooth as many people have walked over it. High heels are perhaps the wrong shoe choice here. Solid footwear that is suitable for sports activities, is certainly more appropriate. Besides, it will protect your feet in case of other tourists treading on your toes.
4. Sufficient drinking
In summer, it can get very hot in China. Climbing all the steps can definitely be considered as your physical activity of the day. Calculate how much water you might need, then bring twice as much!
5. Attention, stumbling hazard!
The climb definitely requires some sportsmanship. The stairs of the Chinese wall are numerous and partly uneven. So pay attention when walking up, so you do not stumble!
Now you’ve heard a lot about the wonder of China. Ultimately, a picture always says more than a thousand words. See it for yourself. It’s better to walk thousands of miles than to read thousands of books. And remember: Shoulders back, chest high, feet apart, head up, and… strut!
