Simatai 司马台
Simatai is the most spectacular and aesthetically pleasing section of the Great Wall. Simatai is a relatively short span (5.4 km) that is situated near the town of Gubeikou, roughly 120 km northeast of Beijing.
Like most of the other sections of the Great Wall, the Simatai section was refortified by General Qi Jiguang during the Ming Dynasty (CE 1368-1644).
With 35 watchtowers it has the greatest number of watchtowers per kilometer than any other section. The extreme topography means steps are often very narrow and steep, making Simatai more suited to the adventurous and energetic.
Great Wall of China Sections
Mutianyu
The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, about 70 km north-east of Beijing, is a masterpiece of restoration, with 22 original style watchtowers.
Badaling
Badaling is about 80 km from Beijing and is the most convenient place to view the Great Wall.
