Greatwallforum.com Speaks Out About Simatai Redevelopment

Last week we noted the Simatai section of the Great Wall has been closed indefinitely for “renovation.” Shortly after, the Global Times reported the restoration will actually involve redevelopment of Simatai village, including the construction of a five-star hotel, golf course, and swimming area, built in the name of “aiding Simatai's tourist attraction value.”

Greatwallforum.com, a website for tourists and local Great Wall enthusiasts, has lamented the closing of this “authentic” section of the Wall that offers something different to the commercialism of Badaling. The site provides Great Wall news, as well as section-specific reviews and advice. TheBeijinger.com asked the site’s administrator, Bryan Feldman, for his views on the upcoming changes at Simatai.

What’s your opinion on the imminent development of Simatai?

I think it's a very unfortunate decision. The entire Great Wall including Simatai should be preserved in its present state. There are already too many areas that have been restored and I just can't see any justification for further development. In addition, Simatai has already been restored recently and any further development is going to make it more touristy rather than more authentic.

What are the pros and cons you see in developing Simatai and similarly “less touristy” sections of the wall?

The pros are purely perceived financial advantages. It's not good for the Great Wall itself and it's not good for Great Wall enthusiasts. It's damaging a World Heritage site and spoiling the beauty of the Great Wall and its environment, as well as causing serious problems for people who currently live in the area.

What do you think the effects of the renovation and development will be?

Just take a visit to Badaling and you will see what can happen.

Do you think adding attractions like a golf course, five-star hotel, and swimming area will actually draw more visitors, or will tourists be put off by the development?

More casual visitors will be attracted, while visitors who have a genuine interest in the Great Wall will be discouraged. So it will probably change the nature of visitors [rather] than change the quantity. Simatai is not close to Beijing compared to Mutianyu, Badaling, and Juyongguan, so I don't think it's likely to see a significant increase in visitors.

Do you have any recommendations for less-frequented sections of the Wall?

The Wohushan Great Wall at Gubeikou is high on my list. It's just as impressive as Simatai structurally, is in wonderfully authentic condition, is never crowded, and it's easy to reach by public transportation. I dread the day that development is announced there.

Comments

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HuanChu wrote:
Bryan - Sorry I didn't contact you when i wrote my article for Global Times. We looked for someone to comment on how bad it would be, but didn't find anyone in time.

Good to read your comments here though. If only they could have a positive effect.

You did a nice job on that article. It was helpful and very interesting.

Bryan - www.greatwallforum.com

Bryan - Sorry I didn't contact you when i wrote my article for Global Times. We looked for someone to comment on how bad it would be, but didn't find anyone in time.

Good to read your comments here though. If only they could have a positive effect.

A very smart man wrote:
Remember, the courage to be wrong is paramount in importance to the ability to be right.

Thanks for publishing my opinions!

Bryan - www.greatwallforum.com