The Great Wall of China at Badaling

1. Chinese Characters for the Great Wall

The Badaling section of the Great Wall is the best preserved and the most popular one amongst all the sections. It is more than 1,000 meters (3281 ft) above sea level, and commands a strategic position for transportation and defense in ancient times. Badaling, literally meaning "reach eight directions," got its name because the maze of its ridges stretches in all directions. While it is the most popular it remains quite crowded and commercialized. Well worth seeing but the wall at Mutianyu can be a better choice if you have time for just one.