🌺 秦皇岛: Great wall, Coastline and Nature !

Day 1 My journey began at Shanhaiguan Pass (山海关), famously known as the "First Pass Under Heaven." Unlike the often crowded sections of the Great Wall near Beijing, Shanhaiguan offered a rare and refreshing experience — I could explore the ancient fortress and climb the wall with almost no other tourists around. The peacefulness made the atmosphere truly special. Standing atop the massive stone ramparts, I marveled at the immense architecture stretching far into the horizon, where the wall blends seamlessly into the rugged mountains. The combination of weathered bricks, watchtowers, and the dramatic natural landscape created stunning photo opportunities at every turn, untouched by crowds. It felt as though I was stepping back centuries, absorbing the profound history and strategic importance this pass once held as the eastern gateway guarding the empire. Day 2 I ventured to the less well-known but equally breathtaking Jiumenkou Great Wall (九门口长城). This unique section is famed for its integration with the surrounding mountains and sea, where fortress gates are nestled into steep cliffs and the wall meanders along jagged ridges. Again, I was fortunate to find the site relatively quiet, allowing me to truly appreciate the beauty and engineering of this fortress without the usual hustle of tourists. The panoramic views of valleys, forested slopes, and distant sea were simply mesmerizing. The blend of natural and man-made defenses was a perfect reminder of the ancient military ingenuity that went into protecting the realm. I highly recommend visitors to include Jiumenkou in their itinerary — it’s one of China’s most photogenic Great Wall sections and an unforgettable experience for those seeking beauty and history in a serene setting.