Xinjiang Odyssey: Heritage & Natural Wonders
Uncover the Untamed Beauty of China's Coastal Fortifications
Day 1: Coastal Origins - From Dragon's Head to First Pass Under Heaven
Beijing - Qinhuangdao - Laolongtou - Shanhaiguan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Recommended Hotel: Hotel near the Wall
Today's Hiking Time & Length: 1.5 hours
Highlights: Coastal Great Wall, Great Wall Museum, Shanhaiguan Fortress
Morning train journey from Beijing to Qinhuangdao begins our frontier expedition. After lunch, we explore the legendary Old Dragon Head Fortification where the Great Wall meets the Bohai Sea. Our inaugural hike commences from this coastal stronghold, tracing the wall's path toward the renowned Shanhaiguan Pass. This gentle 1.5-hour trek passes through authentic villages, offering glimpses of local life. Upon reaching Shanhaiguan, we delve into the "First Pass Under Heaven" fortress and its comprehensive Great Wall Museum, understanding the strategic importance of this eastern terminus. Overnight accommodation near the wall prepares us for tomorrow's wilderness adventure.
Day 2: Mountain Wilderness - Jiaoshan to Sandaoguan Trek
Qinhuangdao - Jiaoshan - Sandaoguan - Dongjiakou
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Recommended Hotel: Guesthouse at the Bottom of the Wall
Today's Hiking Time & Length: 6-7 hours/12 km in total
Highlights: Mountainous Great Wall sections, remote villages, panoramic views
Today's challenging 12-kilometer trek begins with an ascent from Jiaoshan Mountain base to the wall above. Our route alternates between preserved wall segments and mountain trails, heading northeast through pristine wilderness. Experience the wall in its most authentic state, far from tourist crowds. The trail reveals breathtaking vistas of Mount Longevity, tranquil valleys, ancient forests, and crystal-clear mountain streams. Our destination is the secluded Sandaoguan Village, home to just 35 families, where we rest before transferring to Dongjiakou. Overnight in a traditional guesthouse at the wall's base offers authentic cultural immersion.
Day 3: Guardian's Path - Dongjiakou to Ancient Towers
Dongjiakou - Great Wall Village - Qinhuangdao - Beijing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's Hiking Time & Length: 5-6 hours/10 km in total
Highlights: Cihou Tower, local village interaction, original wall preservation
Our final day begins with a morning climb from Dongjiakou Village to the remarkably preserved Cihou Tower. We then explore village ruins and meet local residents - direct descendants of the wall's original builders and guardians. These families have maintained these sections for generations through community effort, without governmental support. Our westward 3-hour hike along the wall includes a trailside lunch amidst spectacular scenery. The expedition concludes with transfer to Qinhuangdao station for our return train to Beijing, carrying memories of the Great Wall's wildest, most authentic eastern frontier.