marele zid la juyongguan

Another interesting climb up the Great Wall of China at Juyungguan. The elevation is quite high, and the journey up to the top platform is quite toil, but an experience that is amazing, and one that I would thoroughly recommend during a visit to Beijing. During the climb you come to appreciate the immensity of this structure and the physical endeavor that must have taken place to build the precarious walkway. The steps are weathered and worn, and come in all shapes and sizes, but they do make the journey up the mountain side somewhat easier. The views as you ascend, are incredible, the neighboring peaks are terraced with natural layers of foliage and rock, and really emphasis the contour of this rugged landscape. Each peak gradually fades and appears to merge with another rocky terrain creating a very atmospheric and absorbing view.Chairman Mao stated:”He who has not climbed the Great Wall is not a true man.” I am not sure if the climb warrants the prestigious claim, but it is such a rewarding journey both for the visual stimulus and your sense of self achievement. (Ian Murphy in China)