is the great wall worth the extra drive for peace and quiet?
So, I finally made it to the Great Wall, but not the usual touristy spot everyone talks about. Instead, I drove all the way out to Jinshanling, which took me almost two hours longer than the popular Badaling section. Honestly, I was a bit grumpy about the long drive—my back started to ache, and I kept wondering if it was really worth it. But when I got there, I was shocked: there was hardly anyone around! It felt like I had the whole Great Wall to myself. The views were breathtaking, and the air was so fresh. Plus, the wall here looks much more original—less shiny, more rugged, and you can really feel the history.
But here's my dilemma: was all that extra driving and hassle really worth it just to avoid the crowds? Sometimes I wonder if I should've just gone to the closer, more convenient section, even if it meant dealing with more people and a bit of a tourist trap vibe. Have any of you ever gone out of your way for a more 'authentic' experience, only to question if it was worth the trouble? Or do you prefer the convenience, even if it means sharing the spot with a crowd? Would love to hear your stories—especially if you’ve tackled the Great Wall or any other famous place!
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