An earlier start today to avoid the potential rain forecasted later in the day.   Last day in the countryside so had to pack up before breakfast. This morning was very windy but they sky was blue so it didn’t look like rain. 

Another good breakfast today – got some fried rice. After breakfast we brought our bags down and said goodbye to the homestay owner.   It was a very pleasant past 3 days so it was a bit sad to leave.   We bused back to where we ended yesterday and climbed up the wall to continue on from where we left off to the East Five Window tower, which was about 7 km, I believe. 

It was a spectacular day for walking – blue sky with a nice breeze.   We walking the whole day along the wall so it was relatively easy going.   There were lots of steps up and down and a few sections with steep paved ramps, which were more challenging than the steps – would not want to do those bits in the rain. 

The pace today was nice so there was plenty of time for photos.   It was difficult to go more than a few metres without wanting to take more photos.  Plus, this whole section was pretty empty.   Would definitely recommend heading out to this section instead of the tourist part closer to Beijing. 

Once we made it to the East Five Window tower we descended from the wall down a large number of steps.   We got to the bus and headed to a place for lunch run by the lady that brought us the stuffed pancakes to the tower yesterday.   The lunch was good – lots of dishes.

We then headed back towards the wall to visit a paper cutting studio.   We had a demonstration and then got to try our own – turned out not too bad.   I ended up buying a papercut to frame and hang on my wall. 

After the papercut studio we got back on the bus to head back to Beijing, stopping in the way at the Olympic Village.  Took a quick walk around the Water Cube and the Bird’s Nursery Nest Stadium.   

We then got back on the bus for the drive through Beijing rush hour to the hotel.  Took a quick break at the hotel to change before heading out to a hotpot dinner.   The hotpot was great with a spicy and a plain side with lots of beef, lamb and fish as well as vegetables.   We ordered the spicy side as “moderate” but probably should have stuck with the mild as the moderate was very spicy!

After dinner we went back to the hotel for some sleep after a long day!