Juyongguan Great Wall Hotel

I don’t know what the definition of a “group tour” is for the government of China, I was with a bus group of 20. I have learned since arriving home that “group tours” are limited to two hours at the Wall. That includes ALL time; climbing, walking, shopping and eating. I’ve learned that there are two routes at Juyongguan one easier than the other. I took the more difficult route. Our guide gave us the two hours for the stop. I immediately started the climb up the uneven stairs. Luckily, much of the way there was a handrail. As I grew more tired, I used the handrail more and more. Sometimes pulling myself up as much as pushing with my legs. Taking a photo is a great brief rest. As it was November, the stairs were somewhat less crowded so I and many others in my group occasionally just sat in the middle of the stairs, rested for a minute or two and let others use the railings. After one hour slowly climbing I reached “tower” 9 of 12. Not knowing how long it would take me to make my way down (going down stairs is actually harder on ones body than going up) I disappointedly started down. I counted. 755 stairs from “tower” 9 down. It took about 35-40 minutes down. I did find a mask in one of the site stores that I didn’t see anywhere else (cash only at that store; other stores at the site took Visa). If /when I go again and it’s with a group, I will try and organize enough of the group to stay longer. If there are enough people, I figure the bus won’t leave without us. I loved China but it is a BIG disappointment not to have made it to the top of the Great Wall and walked along it.