Editor’s Note: Monthly Ticket is a CNN Travel series that spotlights some of the most fascinating topics in the travel world. In September, we’re celebrating superlatives as we look at some of the world’s biggest, tallest and most expensive attractions and destinations.
CNN — Living in Beijing for nearly 12 years, I have had ample opportunity to travel extensively in China. I have visited over 100 cities, along with numerous towns and villages in the mainland’s provinces. Reflecting back, I have realized that it was my frequent visits to different parts of the Great Wall in Beijing that fueled my desire to explore the rest of the country and its many sections of the wall beyond the capital.
Construction of the Great Wall began over 2,500 years ago during China’s Spring and Autumn Period. Additional sections were built by competing dynasties and factions in subsequent eras to assert control. The wall, which spans over 21,000 kilometers, winds through 15 provinces, 97 prefectures, and 404 counties. While some sections are popular among tourists, many parts have fallen into obscurity and disrepair.
Whether you are visiting the Great Wall for the first time or the 50th, the following destinations are worth exploring to enhance your trip to China. (Watch the video above for stunning aerial footage of these incredible sites.)
The Great Wall is not only made of bricks and mortar; it includes towers on rugged mountain peaks, fortress towns, and even wide rivers. Turtle City, part of the Great Wall’s “Yellow River Defense Line,” was built in the Ming Dynasty and completed in 1608. Located in Gansu province, this fortress city features a unique layout resembling a turtle. As one of the best-preserved walled cities in China, it offers an authentic experience. It is recommended to stay in Jingtai County center to easily access the ancient city.
Mutianyu and Jiankou are two sections of the Great Wall located in Beijing that stretch for approximately 25 kilometers. These sections are considered classic examples of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall still intact today. Mutianyu is popular among tourists as it has been restored and offers breathtaking views. Jiankou, known as the “wild wall,” is less commercialized and does not require a ticket. However, hiking in Jiankou is currently discouraged by the local government due to safety concerns. It is advisable to spend a night in the countryside to fully enjoy these sections.
Bataizi village is situated within the Motianling section of the Great Wall and is home to the ruins of a Gothic church built in 1876. The village’s historic connection with Catholicism adds to its charm. Datong, a nearby city, offers other attractions such as the Yungang Grottoes and the Hengshan Hanging Temple. Late summer is a great time to visit Bataizi to witness the contrast between the Great Wall and the lush green hills.
Laoniuwan village, located in Pianguan County in Shanxi province, is where the Great Wall meets the mighty Yellow River. The Laoniuwan Fortress and Wanghe Tower are notable landmarks in this area. Late summer or early fall is the ideal time to visit, as it avoids dangerous mountain roads during spring rainstorms and extreme coldness. A boat ride along the river offers a unique perspective of the Yellow River Gorge and the ancient architects’ remarkable feat.
Note: It can be challenging to access Laoniuwan village by public transportation.