The Simatai Great Wall Of Beijing China

If you have already been to the world-renowned Badaling Great Wall and are searching for somewhere more untamed, why not try the Great Wall at Simatai section? Located 120 km north of Beijing in the county of Miyun, Simatai is renowned for its steepness and amazing state of preservation. Simatai Great Wall has 35 beacon towers. Constructed under the supervision of Qi Jiguang, a famous general in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), it is the only part of the Great Walls that still has the original appearance of the Ming Dynasty.
 The main tourist attractions include the Stairway to Heaven, the Fairy Tower, the Heaven Bridge and the Wangjing Tower.
The Simatai Great Wall is divided into eastern and western parts by a lake, named the Mandarin Duck Lake, which is fed by two springs. One is warm, the other is cold. Even in winter, the surface of the lake will never ice up.
In order to reach the Fairy Tower, tourists must climb the 85 degree slope Stairway to Heaven which is about 100 meters long and allows only one person to pass. Legend has it that the Fairy Tower was transformed from an antelope and that once the Lotus Flower Fairy lived there, hence its name. On the tower, there are some marble arches carved with lotus patterns.
Simatai also offers a wide range of activities. Tourists can go boating, swimming or fishing in the Mandarin Duck Lake. Besides, to taste the local authentic "peasant food" is also a good pastime.  Located in Simatai Great Wall Scenic Area, Simatai Hotel (Simatai Great Wall Mountain Villa) is a traditional Chinese courtyard which offers good board and accommodation. Visitors can also go there to enjoy traditional Chinese musical instrument performance. The untamed beauty and isolation at Simatai section make it an attractive alternative to Badaling and a great way to spend a day in Beijing for the tourists.