Juyong Pass of Great Wall, Beijing

I loved climbing on the Great Wall. There were a lot of people there that day. School children and tourists trying to make sense of the world. The girl that sat thinking on the steps of the great wall probably had the greatest enlightenment. The main thing I thought about as I climbed higher and higher along the wall was: how many people died building this wall? And how long did the wall protect the people that ordered it being built? Such a great sacrifice by so many. For what? I hope the workers found purpose in their lives. I am still thinking about these things. Cold and windy day Hiking along the Great Wall Warmed my heart and soul

Absolutely incredible experience, so worth it, even though a 38°C day. A not to be missed destination.

Brutal hike to the top lookout point but worth it. Will take maybe an house for those of medium to low physical ability. The first stretch in the hardest with no breaks and some steps over a foot tall. The views are incredible and there is a store near the stop with refreshments. There are also Chinese style toilets at the top and western at the bottom. On the day I went, smog was minimal. It can be crowded and with the pathway being narrow, you will need to wait at times.

I visited this section of the wall in March 2018. It was cold and it had snowed the day before but by the time we climbed up the very very steep and uneven steps to the top of Fortress 12, we shed our jumpers and jackets. Make sure you wear comfortable and supportive sneakers and sunglasses or a hat. The climb is pretty difficult and most people don’t make it up all of the way but no matter how far up you climb, you will see spectacular views of the mountains and the wall. It’s definitely one for the bucket list. If you get to Fortress 10, I think, you will see a little gift store selling gold medals saying you climbed the Great Wall. They can also engrave your name and date onto the medal.

No Wonder! It is one of the 7 wonders of the world! Great place that everyone should visit once in their lifetime. It's mighty and beautiful to see.