Beautiful Beijing – Day 3

This will be a quick post to get you caught up.  On our third day in China we had the pleasure of visiting one of the seven wonders of the world, The Great Wall of China.  We hopped back in the van and departed on our hour and half drive to the wall.  George shared many stories along the way that gave us a better understanding of the Chinese culture and his own background.  Further deepening our understanding and love for China and for this new friend.

As we approached the wall the landscape quickly changed from the flat lands of Beijing to the mountains.  And then we saw it.  Out of the mist on the mountains we could see the towers and sections of wall weaving through the mountains.

We got out of the van and had to decide the “beginners” side or the “advanced” side.  We chose the “beginner” side but quickly found that it did not mean that it was flat.  The wall quickly climbed the mountainside, and so did we.

We made it to the top and were able to enjoy the beautiful view.  But then it was back down which involved backwards climbing at some points to keep from falling.  It was amazing and tiring.

As we got back to the van, all of us felt exhausted but amazed at the beauty and size of the wall.  Then it was off to our next adventure, to learn about the Chinese National Treasure of Jade.  We approached the government run Jade Factory and were led in to see so many huge and intricate pieces.  We were able to take part of this treasure with us as a reminder of our trip to get Evie, and of the amazing country we were visiting.

Then back to the hotel to rest for our next adventure.