Wonders of the Wall Celebrated 600 Years On

The Great Wall is known around the world as the symbol of China, a source of pride to those born here and a 'must-see' for visitors to the world's most populous nation.

And while recent debate has centred on whether or not this wonder of the world can be seen from space or not － Chinas first astronaut Yang Liwei admitted that he wasn't able to spot it － what remains beyond doubt is that it will forever remain a source of fascination.

While the earliest sections of the Great Wall of China have been dated back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220), the greatest proportion of the structure － some 7,000km－ was erected or consolidated during the Ming (1368-1644).

The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, situated in the suburban Huairou District of Beijing, has been dubbed the"soul" of the structure during that period of time because of the advanced technology used.

In 1404, the so-called Proper Terrace of the Pass of Mutianyu was built by a general called Xu Da during the reign of the first emperor Zhu Di (1360-1424) of the Ming Dynasty. That was built on the remains of the Great Wall built in the Northern Qi Period (550-577).

Ever since, it has simply been called the Mutianyu Pass. This year, 2004, sees the 600th anniversary of the completion of this section.

Three watchtowers standing on this are unique in the architectural history of the Great Wall and have become a significant tourist attraction.

In spring apricot and pear blossom and azalea － plus a great variety of other plants－ become a major attraction for visitors at the Mutianyu section. Unlike Beijing's dry, urban areas, here a damper climate nurtures a vegetation cover that, in places, reaches 95 percent.

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Routes: Special bus no.6 at Xuanwumen and Dongsishitiao will directly take you there.

Ticket: 35 yuan for adults, and 17.5 yuan for students (return cable cars: 50 yuan for adults, 25 yuan for students; one-way: 35 yuan for adults, 18 yuan for students)

Hours: 7:30am-5:30pm, everyday

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April 17

The 3rd Beijing International Walking Convention

People all over the world are encouraged to participate in a hike on the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall; 110 yuan per person including ticket for the Great Wall, insurance and transport fees, snacks, drink and souvenirs.

Tel: 8489-6319/20/21

April 16-July 5

The 10th Flower Festival of Huairou District

May

Photo Exhibition of Mutianyu section of the Great Wall; Traditional Beijing snacks 

May-October

Calligraphy and Painting Exhibition

June 15-July 5

Chinese Chestnut Blossom Festival

September

The marriage of 300 couples at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall

In addition, the first Beijing Huairou Peony Festival will be held in Huairou District from April 24 to May to mark the 600th anniversary of this section. More than a million peonies (of over 600 species) grown in Chinas biggest flowers garden in Huairou District will be on display. The peony, the symbol of wealth and honour in China for centuries, has also long been a popular symbol of the nation.