The Great Wall of China is arguably the most impressive and
stunning man made structure in the world. Casually spanning more than 8,000kms, it
is obvious why this sat as my number one thing to do whilst in China. Fitness,
however, was not sitting quite as highly on my priorities list. It was for this
reason that I felt some slight apprehension when it was suggested that we walk
the Jinshangling to Simatai leg of the wall. This 12km hike was not suggested
for the faint of heart, but well worth the travel and physical exertion for the
stunning scenery.
Travel to the wall was relatively streamline- with a subway
ride followed by a two hour bus trip. Disembarking in Minyun, we were greeted
by a man- as if fate were smiling upon us. “Great Wall, Jinshangling, I give
you ride, private car”. After some slight bartering on price, we hopped in the
car and began the final leg of our journey to the wall. For the first time in
over two months, Matt and I searched violently for seat belts, securing them
tight. Narrow roads resulted in the drivers engaging in constant games of
chicken, swerving out into the oncoming traffic to pass trucks, only narrowly
avoiding head on collisions.
Arriving at the wall slightly shaken, we thanked our driver,
and agreed to meet back at 5pm at the end of the section- giving us four hours
of hike time. The wall itself proved to be a fantastic journey, and void of
almost all signs of tourists. The cool breeze combined with bright sunshine
made for ideal weather conditions, and significant autumnal colours.
Returning back to Dongcheng, we found a restaurant, ate a
substantial meal, and returned to our dingy hotel room to fall into a heavy
slumber after the days tiresome activities.
