Wall Walk

Today is a memorable day: HNC has its traditional wall walk for the second time.

The idea comes from Robert Daly-the American co-director that win a popularity among students. He said that in fact he hopes to walk through Nanjing's wall for a long time. It was not until last year that this plan was put into action. In order to get things go smoothly, he and the assistants rechecked the route two weeks ago. Of course, things changed rapidly compared to last year, which always happens in China.

Nanjing, with a renowned history, is also famous for the great city wall-though this side of history is not that familiar compared to wall in Beijing. Constructed during the Yuan and Ming Dynasties between 1365 and 1386, the wall originally stretched over 30km which made it the longest city wall in the world. It reaches all the way from the North end of Xuanwu Lake to the south-west corner of Purple Mountain. It snakes along the edge of Qinghuai River and heads back north all the way up to Yuejiang Tower (阅江楼). ( sitation from http://www.synotrip.com/nanjing/tourist-attractions/nanjing-city-wall-1023.shtml)

Served as an importan military frotress for the city, the walls are designed in a scitific and a well considering of geography. The quality of the walls is well taken care of too. During the introduction meeting of the walk, Robert said that at the ancient time, the brick sample is thrown onto the ground, if it fell apart, then the brick-maker should take it back and remake it. If the second time it still has quality problem, then the producer is committed capital offence and will be thrown into jail. No wonder the bricks are all high quality and can endure the long test of history.

Started from early half past five this morning, we-students as well as professors and also friends-got on the bus and headed for Zhongshan Gate from where the walk is commenced. It is quite an enjoying trip: the fresh air pumping into your nose; the old walls bear your feetstep, birds are singing above you; the sun greets you with a smile face; woods and lakes invite you to take a picture....... Nearly leading a isolated life in the center, we miss this feelings so much that we talk and laugh all the way.

This first part which covers the Zhongshan Scenery Area is the most beautiful one. I retreat from the "walking battle" after this part and took a bus back. A majority of people finished the whole trip, even though I am not that sorry for my decision---for I have come, I have enjoyed, and I have learnt .

From: 小秋的博客