“Nobody told me that the Great Wall is vertical.”
Those are the words of TikTok content creator Lybell Chen (@lybellchen), who recently shared a video on the social media platform depicting her challenging experience at one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, the Great Wall of China.
In the video, viewers are treated to a candid glimpse of Chen struggling to catch her breath as she ascends the steep steps of the wall.
At one moment, she is seen sitting with a defeated expression, taking a moment to recover from the rigorous climb.
“That was humbling,” she remarked, tagging her post with the hashtags #greatwall and #greatwallofchina.
Chen’s struggles resonated with many netizens, sparking a flurry of comments worldwide.
User @shivshiv echoed her sentiment, stating, “I’ve been telling people this for years. It’s a hike, not a walk.”
Another user, @xoxklsefwjm, shared their own experience, noting, “I thought I was pretty fit when I went. I was very much humbled, especially when the guards climbed past in the middle with their hands behind their backs.”
@lybellchen That was humbling #greatwall #greatwallofchina #chinesischemauer #nothingbeatsajet2holiday ♬ Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday – Chels
@k67720 said: “It was built on top of mountain tops to make it harder for the enemy to penetrate, so it’s gonna feel like climbing a mountain.”
@silverbeauty24 said: “I heard it would take about 18 months to walk the Great Wall of China from the beginning to the end.”
The Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” offers a unique chance to witness a historical marvel while immersing oneself in Chinese culture and history.
For those considering the adventure, be prepared: walking the entire length of the Great Wall, including its many branches, could take an estimated 17 to 18 months.
The main section, built during the Ming Dynasty, measures around 5,500 miles, while the total length of the wall stretches approximately 13,000 miles across various dynasties.
To fully enjoy this monumental trek, it is advisable to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip and dress in layers for the varying temperatures that can occur, even in summer.
Travellers should carry sufficient water, energy-rich snacks, and consider packing a waterproof jacket and sun protection.
Choosing less crowded sections and avoiding peak hours can significantly enhance the experience, while having a first-aid kit handy and utilising trekking poles can make the hike smoother.
