The Great Wall of China has been a popular tourist destination for centuries. In fact, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The first recorded instance of tourism on the Great Wall dates back to the 7th century AD, when the Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai wrote about visiting the wall. In the following centuries, the Great Wall became increasingly popular with Chinese tourists, as well as with foreign visitors from Europe and Asia.
By the 19th century, the Great Wall was one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. In 1872, the first group of foreign tourists to visit the Great Wall was led by the American travel writer Thomas Cook. In the following decades, the number of foreign tourists visiting the Great Wall grew exponentially. By the early 20th century, the Great Wall was one of the most popular tourist destinations in China.
Tourism on the Great Wall Today
Today, the Great Wall is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. In 2019, over 100 million tourists visited the Great Wall. The most popular sections of the Great Wall for tourists are the Badaling section, the Mutianyu section, and the Jinshanling section. These sections are located near Beijing and are easily accessible by public transportation.
Types of Tourism on the Great Wall
There are many different ways to experience the Great Wall. Some of the most popular activities for tourists include:
* Hiking: The Great Wall is a popular hiking destination for tourists of all fitness levels. There are hiking trails of all different lengths and difficulties, so everyone can find a trail that is right for them.
* Biking: Biking is another great way to see the Great Wall. There are bike trails along many sections of the wall, and it is a great way to cover more ground than you could on foot.
* Horseback riding: Horseback riding is a unique way to experience the Great Wall. It is a great way to get up close to the wall and see it from a different perspective.
* Camping: Camping is a great way to experience the Great Wall at night. There are campgrounds located at various points along the wall, and it is a great way to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Chinese countryside.
Tips for Visiting the Great Wall
Here are a few tips for visiting the Great Wall:
* Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you wear shoes that are comfortable and supportive.
* Bring water and snacks. It can get very hot on the Great Wall, so make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized.
* Dress in layers. The weather can change quickly on the Great Wall, so make sure you dress in layers so that you can adjust to changing temperatures.
* Be prepared for crowds. The Great Wall is a very popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds. Try to visit during the off-season (October-March) if you want to avoid the crowds.
* Take your time. The Great Wall is a vast and impressive structure, so make sure you take your time exploring it. Don't rush through your visit - take your time to enjoy the scenery and the history of this amazing place.
