Just 120 km from Beijing’s bustling city center lies a hidden gem for history buffs and adventurers alike: the Simatai Great Wall. Tucked between Simatai Village and the picturesque Gubei Water Town in Miyun District, this unrestored Ming Dynasty marvel offers raw, unfiltered glimpses into China’s imperial past. 🏯
Unlike crowded sections like Badaling, Simatai’s steep slopes and watchtowers draped in ivy let you walk through history literally – some steps are so narrow you’ll feel like a Ming soldier guarding the frontier! Pro tip: Visit at sunset for Insta-worthy views of the wall snaking across misty ridges. 📸
With 2026 marking 660 years since the Ming Dynasty’s founding, there’s no better time to explore this UNESCO site. Bonus? The adjacent Gubei Water Town adds modern charm with lantern-lit canals – perfect for post-hike dumplings! 🥟
