China

A bustling country home to over 1.4 billion people, China is a country full of rich cultural history. The history spans over four millennia and is structured through the rise and fall of differing ruling imperial dynasties and major political eras. There is a reason that China is a modern global power. From China’s largest city, Shanghai, to quiet countrysides, everything you can imagine is here. Yet, with unique natural wonders, historical landmarks, and deep cultural traditions, China has things you cannot find anywhere else in the world.

Beijing

I stopped in Beijing on my way to Mongolia. And WOW! I was not disappointed! This bustling capital of China is one that you sure that you stop by while you are visiting.

The deep cultural centers that you can explore are phenomenal! While in Beijing, you have to stop by The Temple of Heaven. This site was completed during the Ming dynasty. It is also one of the largest temple complexes in China! There is also The Summer Palace, which was a retreat for the Qing dynasty from the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is China’s most magnificent architectural complex. 24 dynasties ruled this for 500 years! It was constructed in 1420, and is home to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, which is the largest hall in the complex. It was used for major occasions. These rich cultural centers provide you an incredible way to experience Chinese cultural history in Beijing!

Aside from those esteemed culture centers, there is a great share of sightseeing in Beijing. You can sightsee along W Chang’ An Ave, where you can meet lots of friendly individuals, like I did! Along this ave, you can venture to famous places. Additionally, you can swing by the Xidan Cultural Square. This square is a cobblestone square with picturesque flower arrangements. You can also stop by Tian’an Men Square, which is a large concrete expanse surrounded by Communist style buildings with Mao’s Mausoleum as its focal point. The architecture is one you must see, and it’s also a rich cultural center, as this square has been a stage for demonstrations.

But these are just some brief highlights of all that Beijing has to hold. Read more below to find out the other treasures in this wonderful city!

The Great Wall of China

While in China, you must experience iconic history at the Great Wall of China. This expansive wall is full of more than just a wall: it too includes watchtowers and fortresses. The Great Wall of China snakes over deserts, hills, and plains for several thousand miles (13,171 to be exact!). Reading about the wall is one thing, but witnessing the expansive nature in person? I was blown away.

While walking along the wall, you will be able to see the history built into the walls. The Great Wall of China is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with only a small portion of the wall being restored. The best-preserved and most-visited parts were constructed during the Ming Dynasty. But while you are visiting the wall, be prepared to walk! Again, learning about how large the wall is is one thing, but actually walking it is another. If you are brave enough to walk to the peak of the wall, you can catch a glimpse of the many gorgeous prayer flags that are tired to the surrounding trees. Although the trek is hard, it is worth it.

This is just a glimpse into what the Great Wall of China has to offer. Read more below to find out more about the wonders of this unforgettable world heritage site.