China's Great Wall, an iconic symbol of the country's rich history, stretches over 21,000 kilometers across 15 provinces. While some sections are well-trodden by tourists, others remain lesser-known, offering unique experiences for those willing to explore beyond the usual paths.
One such lesser-known treasure is the Turtle City in Gansu province. Built during the Ming Dynasty as part of the Great Wall's "Yellow River Defense Line, " this fortress town once housed 2,000 infantrymen and 500 cavalry units. Its distinctive shape, resembling a turtle, gives the town its name, with the south gate as the head and the oval wall as the body. Today, Turtle City stands as one of China's most authentic walled cities, offering a glimpse into the past.
Visitors to Turtle City can stay in Jingtai County, just a 30-minute cab ride away. The area is also known for its culinary delights, including spicy vegetarian dishes like five Buddha tofu and Jingtai cold mixed noodles. A stroll through the bustling night market in Jingtai County People's Square, featuring over 50 snack stalls, is a must for food enthusiasts.
For those seeking a more traditional Great Wall experience, the sections at Mutianyu and Jiankou in Beijing are ideal. These areas, part of the "Stone Dragon, " span roughly 25 kilometers and are renowned for their Ming Dynasty architecture. Mutianyu, restored in the 1980s, is a popular tourist destination with a cable car for easy access. In contrast, Jiankou, known as the "wild wall, " offers a more rugged experience, though local authorities have raised safety concerns about hiking there.
Both Mutianyu and Jiankou are within a 90-minute drive from downtown Beijing. Visitors can enhance their trip by staying overnight in the countryside. The Brickyard offers comfortable accommodations near Mutianyu, while The Barracks, run by Great Wall historian William Lindesay, provides a unique stay near Jiankou.
In Shanxi province, Bataizi village offers a fascinating juxtaposition of history and religion. Nestled within the Motianling section of the Great Wall, Bataizi is home to the ruins of a Gothic church built in 1876. Despite numerous repairs, only the bell tower remains intact. The village's "new" church, where Father Pan welcomes visitors, highlights the area's long-standing Catholic ties.
Nearby, the city of Datong offers additional attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes and the Hengshan Hanging Temple. Late summer is an ideal time to visit Bataizi, as the lush green hills provide a stunning backdrop to the ancient wall.
Finally, Laoniuwan, or the Old Ox Bend Great Wall, is where the Great Wall meets the Yellow River. Located in Pianguan County, Shanxi province, Laoniuwan Fortress was built in 1467, with the Wanghe Tower added in 1544. This area offers a unique perspective on the wall's strategic importance and its integration with the natural landscape.
Exploring these diverse sections of the Great Wall not only provides a deeper understanding of China's history but also offers travelers a chance to experience the country's cultural and natural beauty in a way that the more popular tourist spots cannot.
