Where is the Great Wall, how to visit Great Wall of China, what to do in Great Wall of China? What is there in the world’s second largest architectural and historical work? Let’s learn about the Great Wall in China through our Great Wall of China travel blog with the fullest Great Wall of China travel guide: The history, information, top things to do, see and more in this blog!
- The FULLEST guide to Fenghuang Ancient Town: Top things to do, Eat, Tips & MORE
- Must do in Macau: 11+ best things to do in Macau for First-Time Travelers
- The ULTIMATE guide to Shanghai Oriental Pearl TV Tower: Top things to do, Ticket Prices, Tips & MORE
- The ULTIMATE guide to Fujian Tulou China: How to get there, Top things to do, Tips & MORE
- The ULTIMATE guide to Suzhou Ancient Town: Top attractions, best things to do & MORE in the Heart of the Modern City
Visiting the Great Wall is not only a journey that takes you to explore a priceless cultural heritage of China but also an impressive and attractive adventure. With the magic of ancient architecture, the power of history and the majesty of the past, the Great Wall has become a symbol of China and the world. Let’s join us to start the journey to discover one of the most magnificent works in the world.
Great Wall of China travel guide: Where is the Great Wall?
The Great Wall is one of the great architectural wonders of mankind. This work stretches from East to West, from the city of Shanhaiguan on the coast of the Yellow Sea and ends at Jiayuguan in the Gobi Desert.
What is the best season to visit the Great Wall?
Beijing Private Transfer to/from PEK Airport
The Great Wall, one of the most famous wonders of the world, is majestic and magnificent, stretching across the mountains of China. Each season, the Great Wall has its own beauty; however, the best time to visit the Great Wall is from September to November.
This is considered the best time to visit the Great Wall. The cool, pleasant weather, clear blue sky and red maple leaves create a beautiful, romantic and poetic scene.
How Long is the Great Wall?
Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour
The Great Wall has a total length of more than 6,000 km, and is one of the most resource-consuming projects in China. It is estimated that up to 800,000 people participated in its construction, many of whom were prisoners or forced laborers. Therefore, the Great Wall is often called “the longest cemetery in the world”, a symbol of the sacrifice and perseverance of the Chinese people.
The Meaning of the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall is not only a solid architectural work, but also plays an important role in demonstrating national strength and protecting territorial security. With a length of more than 6,000 km and a system of watchtowers, it is especially effective in dealing with the attacks of the Xiongnu.
In addition, the Great Wall also acts as a boundary, dividing and protecting the security of the country through many ups and downs of history. It is a symbol of the unity and strength of the Chinese nation, as well as a symbol of patriotism and pride in national identity.
How Many Provinces Does the Great Wall Extend Through?
The Great Wall is not a single road, but a system of fortifications, walls, and military outposts spread over a large area. The starting point of the Great Wall is Shanhaiguan, in northeastern China near the Yellow Sea, and the end point is Jiayuguan, in the northwest, near the Gobi Desert.
Beijing, with a section of the Great Wall preserved and open to visitors, is the most popular tourist destination. In addition, this work also runs through neighboring provinces and regions such as Hebei, Tianjin, and other neighboring regions.
History of the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall, a magnificent construction of China, is not only a solid symbol of military power but also a vivid picture of the country’s historical and cultural development.
The first stage in the history of the Great Wall began in the Qin Dynasty in 208 BC, under the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. At this time, the Great Wall was built to protect the northern border from invasions from foreign tribes.
Next, during the Han Dynasty in the 1st century BC, the dynasties continued to expand and strengthen the Great Wall. This work became a defense system against invasions from the north, and at the same time a symbol of national power. During the Sui Dynasty in the 7th century, the work continued to be expanded and renovated, in order to improve the country’s defense and territorial protection capabilities.
Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour by Bus with Options
The Song Dynasty (1138 – 1198) and the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1640) marked a period of strong renovation and development of the Great Wall. Under the leadership of these dynasties, the work was improved and new construction methods were used, enhancing its defense and preservation capabilities. This was also the period when many parts of the Great Wall that we see today were completed and preserved, symbolizing the strength and sustainability of the Chinese nation.
How to Getting to the Great Wall?
To get to the Great Wall in Beijing, there are many options for transportation, but air travel is still the most popular. Currently, there are many airlines operating flights from Vietnam to Beijing, including Vietnam Airlines, China Southern, Air China, Sichuan Airlines,… This gives you the flexibility to choose the airline and schedule that best suits your needs.
After arriving in Beijing, you can rent a car with a driver to travel to the Great Wall conveniently and save time. Renting a car with a driver will help you avoid traffic troubles and the local tour guide can also provide useful information about the attractions. You can book this service through websites such as Klook.
4G/5G WiFi (HK Airport Pick Up) for Hong Kong/Macau/China from Song WiFi
Note: Preparing a SIM card and Wifi when traveling to the Great Wall is extremely necessary so that you can maintain communication and access the internet easily and conveniently. Klook is a unit specializing in providing SIM card and Wifi pre-booking services with many packages to suit all your needs.
Must-See Great Wall Sections
Badaling
Badaling is the best preserved part of the Great Wall system. Located about 60km northeast of Beijing, this is not only an impressive tourist attraction but also a historical symbol of China.
From the location of Badaling, you can admire the panoramic view of the vast land of mountains, forests, seas and ancient architectural works. The landscape brings a wonderful feeling, making you feel like you are being drawn into ancient space and time.
Mutianyu
Not only is it a majestic natural area with a delicate combination of mountains, rivers and forests, Mutianyu is also a destination with special historical and cultural value of China. Watchtowers and fortresses were built continuously along the length of Mutianyu, creating a solid military system. The harmonious and meticulous arrangement of these structures is a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Chinese people.
Jinshanling
Known as the most beautiful section of the Great Wall, Jinshanling is a must-see destination when you visit the Great Wall. It is part of Luanping County, Chengde City, Hebei Province and is located close to the Miyun border of Beijing.
Jinshanling is a destination that attracts you with its stunning beauty in all four seasons. In spring, flowers bloom and trees are green. In summer, Jinshanling begins to glow with the growth and prosperity of nature. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow and red. In winter, the entire surrounding space turns into a magical world covered in white snow.
Juyongguan
As one of the ancient citadel sections closest to Beijing, Juyongguan is a historical and cultural symbol of China, carrying fascinating stories from 770 – 221 BC.
Juyongguan Great Wall & The Ming Tombs Day Tour from Beijing
From Juyongguan, you can see the panoramic view of the majestic Taihang and Jundu mountains stretching endlessly in the distance. Visiting Juyongguan is not only an exciting experience of natural scenery but also an opportunity for you to explore the unique history and culture of China.
Shanhaiguan
Temple of Heaven Admission Ticket in Beijing
Shanhaiguan is the first pass of the Great Wall system. Located between the borders of Liaoning and Hebei provinces, Shanhaiguan is not only a military structure, but also a beautiful picture of the intersection between mountains and sea.
The pass is built squarely with a circumference of up to 4 km, creating a solid defense system stretching across this land. The wall is 14m high and 7m thick, showing the solidity and durability of Shanhaiguan. In particular, in the center of Shanhaiguan is an extremely impressive towering bell tower.
Jiayu Pass
Jiayu Pass is a great architectural work from the Ming Dynasty. It is not only one of the important landmarks on the Silk Road but also a symbol of the power and authority of the Chinese dynasty.
With three defensive lines of inner and outer walls, interspersed with moats, Jiayu Pass provides security and protection for important trade routes. Each layer of defense and moat is part of a tight military system, protecting the entire territory.
Yanmenguan Pass
Nestled in a vast valley, Yanmen Pass is about 20km from Da County to Xinzhou. The name Yanmen Pass represents that only swallows can overcome the challenges of this pass.
Considered “China’s No. 1 Pass”, Yanmen Pass is not only beautiful but also carries special historical and military significance. With its strategic location between two rugged cliffs, this structure played an important role in protecting China from invaders.
Sima Tai
Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall Day Tour
Built during the Ming Dynasty, Sima Tai is considered the only part of the Great Wall that retains its original shape and is also the longest section of the Great Wall in China today.
Sima Tai is not only famous for its majestic architectural beauty but also for its danger. Designed as a vertical staircase along the high cliff, Sima Tai is truly a challenge for anyone who wants to conquer it. The 900 meter deep pit below creates a sense of horror and is difficult to overcome without courage and patience.
Huanghua – The Great Wall of Water
Universal Studios Beijing Ticket
Also known as the Great Wall of Water, Huanghua was built during the Ming Dynasty and has a history of more than 600 years. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this structure embodies the elegant and graceful beauty of the Jiangnan water town. The combination of grand architecture and wonderful natural scenery has created a unique and attractive space, captivating people from ancient times to the present.
As one of the most important scenic spots in China, Huanghua attracts you with the beauty of ancient architecture as well as the feeling of peace and serenity that this place brings.
Gubeikou
Located from East to West, Gubeikou and Juyongguan form a main road connecting the North China Plain to the Inner Mongolia Plateau. These two gates are important parts of China’s military system.
The wildness and majesty of Gubeikou make it a destination that attracts the attention of tourists from all over the world. Imagine yourself standing in front of the ancient wall, looking far away towards the North China Plain and the Inner Mongolia Plateau, this promises to be an unforgettable experience when you come to the Great Wall.
Top Things to do in the Great Wall of China
Visit the Wall
Mutianyu Great Wall & Bird’s Nest Day Tour by Bus with Transfer
The section of the wall in Beijing is considered the most attractive place for tourists. In this section, the wall is meticulously preserved and restored, thereby preserving the architectural beauty and strength from centuries ago. You can walk on the historical stones, admire the surrounding natural landscape and immerse yourself in the mysterious historical space of China.
Enjoy the Scenery
From the highest points of the Great Wall such as watchtowers or high mountain peaks, you will have the opportunity to admire the entire surrounding landscape. In addition, at sunset and sunrise, the sunlight creates warm colors on the walls and mountains, creating romantic and unique moments. These will be unforgettable moments and make your trip to the Great Wall impressive.
Take Check-in Photos
You can choose the highlights on the walls or at the entrances to create unique and impressive photos. With the unique architecture and solid strength of the walls, each photo will convey the ancient beauty and attraction of the Great Wall.
Buy Souvenirs
Buying souvenirs is an indispensable part of every trip and visiting the Great Wall is no exception. Here, you have a wide range of choices for souvenirs to bring back as souvenirs or gifts for relatives and friends such as items made of stone, ceramic, wood or calendars, paintings, jewelry, etc.
Visiting the Great Wall is a journey to explore the history, culture and natural beauty of China. From the sturdy stone walls stretching across the mountainside to the ancient watchtowers, every corner of this structure contains interesting and fascinating stories.
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Beijing you can refer to
- Beijing Palace Museum Ticket (The Forbidden City)
- [Cool Summer] Universal Beijing Resort Ticket
- [Sale] Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour from Beijing (With Pick Up)
- Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) Admission Ticket in Beijing
- Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour by Bus with Options
- [Sale] Mutianyu Great Wall-Downtown Beijing Round Trip Bus Pass
- Mutianyu Great Wall Ticket & Cable Car
- The Old Summer Palace (Yuanmingyuan) Ticket in Beijing
- Beijing Wildlife Park Admission Ticket
- Beijing Happy Valley Ticket
- CMHK | HK 7 Days unlimited data + 200 HK Local Mins + 1GB Mainland China and Macau data (HK Airport Pick Up)
- [Unlimited Data] 4G Portable WiFi for Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau from Uroaming (HK Airport Pick Up)
- 4G WiFi (HK Airport Pick Up) for Hong Kong/Macau/China (No Speed Limited) from Song WiFi
Read more China guide here.
