In early October a large group of Aihua teachers not only visited and climbed – but camped and slept on top one of the most amazing wonders of the world: The Great Wall. Known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance, visiting the Great Wall is a surreal, breathtaking once-in-a-lifetime experience – never mind spending the night atop it.
Together with a few guides from BackpackingChina.com a group of over 30 Aihua teachers visited the Huanghuacheng Great Wall, one of the less crowded and more scenic parts of the Great Wall about 65 kilometers from Beijing.
This section of the Great Wall, surrounded with mountains and a beautiful lake, was built in the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644) and situated close to Jiuduhe Town in the Huairou Distric – about 2 hours’ drive from the Aihua headquarters.
Geared with warm clothes, water, walking boots, beer and other refreshments for the night – all teachers had to climb the steep wall carrying their sleeping bags, tents and ground sheets. A daunting task indeed!
After enjoying a beautiful sunset the night was spent relaxing, star gazing, chatting and enjoying each other’s company. Tired from the day’s climbing, it did not turn out a late night for most.
The next morning the tour was woken up by a beautiful sunrise over the mountains before packing up and heading back down the Great Wall to the waiting bus that took everyone back to the Aihua headquarters.
A big shout-out to Padraig, Heather and everybody else that not only suggested the trip but put it all together and made it happen! Absolutely an experience that will last a lifetime!by