🇨🇳 The Great Wall: Why I Chose Badaling

Having always dreamt of witnessing one of the world's most iconic landmarks, my recent trip finally took me to the Great Wall of China – remarkably, the first of the Seven Wonders I've had the privilege to explore. I couldn't have timed my visit better, arriving in the early embrace of winter. The weather was absolutely perfect: bright sunshine illuminating the ancient stones, a gentle breeze whispering through the watchtowers, and a refreshingly cool temperature that made walking along the wall an absolute pleasure. This crisp air and clear visibility truly enhanced the grandeur of the experience. One of the first dilemmas for anyone planning a trip to the Great Wall is choosing which section to visit, with Badaling and Mutianyu being the most popular options. While Mutianyu is often lauded for its relatively smaller crowds – a significant factor, as throngs of tourists can indeed detract from the experience – I ultimately opted for Badaling. My primary reason was accessibility. Badaling's closer proximity to Beijing city centre makes it a significantly easier journey, especially for a day trip. What truly sealed the deal was discovering the convenient high-speed train from Beijing North Railway Station directly to Badaling Great Wall Station, a surprisingly affordable option at around 30 yuan. Booking these train tickets in advance is highly recommended, as they can sell out quickly. For those who miss the train, there are also direct buses to and from the Bird's Nest Stadium for approximately 50 yuan. While it's true that Badaling is a popular choice and can get crowded, particularly near the main entrance points, I discovered a simple yet effective way to mitigate this. My advice is to dedicate more time to exploring the section and venture further along the wall. As you walk beyond the initial heavily populated areas, the crowds gradually begin to thin out, allowing for a more serene and immersive experience. You'll be rewarded with stunning vistas and a greater sense of the wall's immense scale and historical significance. As a delightful bonus, I even encountered a few friendly feline residents along the wall, happy to accept any offered tidbits – a charming and unexpected encounter on this ancient wonder. #china #beijing #greatwall #greatwallofchina