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Thrills and Fears of Conquering the Great Wall

A famous saying goes: “He who does not reach the Great Wall is no hero.”
This maxim, from Mao Zedong’s poem, inspires visitors to scale the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stretching over 13,000 kilometers, the Great Wall symbolizes China’s rich history and cultural heritage.
It showcases ancient engineering marvels and the resilience of the Chinese people.
“In 1987, the Great Wall was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of global visitors,” Xie Wd, Deputy Director at the Chinese Cultural Center for Diplomatic Missions, told the Ghana News Agency.


In 2024 alone, over one million tourists visited the Wall, boosting China’s Gross Domestic Product.
Tourism, a significant contributor to the economy, generated approximately 6.4 trillion yuan in 2023, with most revenue from domestic tourism, according to the Chinese National Bureau of Statistics.
Visitors shared their experiences of climbing the Wall, describing it as challenging yet rewarding.
Patricia Esami Lubba, a Nigerian journalist, said: “I have been here on two occasions, but each time, I find it extremely difficult to get to the peak of the Wall.”
Guo Junyou, a 14-year-old student, said: “My visit here today will forever remain in my memories because I was able to accomplish my long-cherished desire of reaching the top of the Wall.”
Shirley Shao, a Beijing Foreign Studies University student, expressed pride in conquering the summit twice, calling herself a heroine.
The Great Wall features landmarks like the Land Deity Temple, Mountain Deity Temple, and the Ancient Cannon, symbolizing China’s military power, especially during the Ming Dynasty.


Recognizing the Wall’s importance, President Xi Jinping emphasized its protection.
“It is our common responsibility to protect and pass on this historic and cultural heritage,” he said.
In 2024, he encouraged villagers near the Badaling section to safeguard the Wall as part of their legacy.
The Great Wall remains a defining symbol of China, offering visitors a window into its civilization and cultural legacy.

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