Great Wall is by far mankind’s most extensive construction endeavor. In its heyday in the 16th and 17th centuries, it snaked 6400 kilometers or 4000 miles across northern. To make the most of your visit, take some advice from these dos and don’ts.
DOS
DO choose a section of the wall that’s right for you.
Most travelers visit one of these sections from their hotel base in Beijing:
Juyongguan section (60km) )is closest to Beijing but less interesting than most other sections;
Badaling (80km) is close but extremely crowded ;
Mutianyu (90km) is farther away but less crowded and set among gorgeous mountains;
Jinshanling and Simatai (140km) is farther away still, but perfect for adventurers (Simatai is currently closed for site improvements.).
DO go in the spring or fall, when the weather is fine and the crowds are few. Summertime is often too hot, and winter can be treacherous.
DO consider signing up for a day tour at your hotel’s activities desk. It’s the simplest way to go. Tours cost around $35 per person and include a bus transportation with an English-speaking guide and driver.
Do wear put on warmer clothes, for Great Wall is in moutain areas and you will feel somewhat cooler than that in city areas.
DO wear windproof scarves to protect your face. It is quite windy in spring, autumn and winter, especially on the Great Wall due to its high altitude.
DO visit either Badaling or Mutianyu if you have mobility concerns; they both have cable cars. Only Badaling is wheelchair accessible.
DO take a ride on the wild, mile-long toboggan track that leads down from the wall at Mutianyu to the village at the base of the wall.
DON’T
DON’T spend less than two hours exploring the wall. You’ll need at least that much time to get the true flavor of the centuries-old structure.
DON’T forget plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat if you visit during the blazing summer. You’ll need it all.
DON’T visit the wall on rainy days, Great Wall is on top of each moutains and is often attacked by by lightning strike.
DON’T be bold to climb the undeveloped sections where the areas are insecure or damaged, or you may injured by the breakage of the wall (especially in Simatai Great Wall)
DON’T visit the wall on weekends or holidays, when it is most crowded. Remember, it’s not just foreigners who tour the Great Wall. Chinese love to visit as well on their days off.
