Emily Zhang Yunji, G9, RDF International School

As the capital of China, Beijing is the second-largest city in China and is a tourist destination. Beijing has a wealth of traditional culture, and everywhere you go reflects a background of thousands of years of history.

During the National Day holiday in 2020, my family took a seven-day trip to Beijing. It was my first trip to Beijing, and I was very excited. We visited many places of interest, such as Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Fragrant Mountain, the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, the Old Summer Palace, and the National Museum. We admired the historical sites along the way, and our hearts were filled with emotion.

What impressed me the most was the Great Wall. I still remember when I was sitting on the cable car up to the mountainside, looking down from the top of the mountain, I saw the endless mountains and the endless Great Wall and I was amazed by the splendid scenery. Located in northern China, the Great Wall of China is an ancient series of fortifications with a total length of more than 21,196 km. It is also the most recognizable symbol of China. The original purpose of building the Great Wall was to prevent incursions from barbarian nomads. The best-known and best-preserved section of the Great Wall was built in the 14th to 17th centuries during the Ming Dynasty. The Great Wall is one of the top 10 architectural wonders in the world, as well as a treasure and symbol of the Chinese nation. Stepping on the Great Wall, you could see the footprints left from the Ming Dynasty, the slopes of different heights, and the nearly vertical stairs. Every step is frightening and awe-inspiring.

Through the trip to Beijing, I not only visited many famous places, but also studied the history of Beijing. This trip is also the first time in the past two years for me to travel with my family. I cherish the time I spend with my family.