{"id":58,"date":"2023-04-02T15:27:20","date_gmt":"2023-04-02T20:27:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usa.marathontours.com\/events\/the-great-wall-marathon\/"},"modified":"2026-09-24T18:12:28","modified_gmt":"2026-09-24T22:12:28","slug":"the-great-wall-marathon","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/the-great-wall-marathon\/","title":{"rendered":"Great Wall Marathon, Half & 8.5K"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":66,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"inline_featured_image":false,"wds_primary_event_locations":0,"footnotes":""},"event_types":[246,106,104],"event_locations":[18],"event_distances":[11,12],"event_course_types":[16],"event_seasons":[27],"class_list":["post-58","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","event_types-8-5k","event_types-half-marathon","event_types-marathon","event_locations-asia","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_course_types-trail-remote","event_seasons-spring"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":62,"event_logo":67,"event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#FFFFFF"},"event_status":"available","event_status_labels_available":"book-now","event_status_labels_waitlist":"available-soon","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Available Soon","url":"mailto:Marcie.Clawson@marathontours.com","target":"_blank"}},"event_additional_buttons":null,"event_book_button":{"link_option":"anchor","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Book Now","url":"https:\/\/forms.marathontours.com\/booking?tc=GWM","target":"_blank"}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"

If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel\u2019s Great Wall Packages please: EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0CALL 617-242-7845<\/a><\/p>\r\nWidely regarded as one of the world's most challenging races, the Great Wall Marathon offers runners an unforgettable journey along one of the world's most iconic landmarks, a legendary structure that has inspired explorers, historians, and travelers for centuries.\r\n\r\nSince 1999, athletes from around the globe have tested their endurance on the ancient stone steps, steep climbs, and scenic pathways of the historic Huangyaguan section of the Great Wall. Recognized by Runner's World <\/em>as one of the world's best races, this bucket-list event combines an extraordinary challenge with breathtaking scenery and rich cultural immersion.\r\n\r\nClimb 5,164 steps, run through centuries-old villages, and experience a race unlike any other. Whether you're tackling the Marathon, Half Marathon, or the 8.5K Fun Run, every mile presents a test of determination, resilience, and spirit.\r\n\r\nAnd the journey doesn't end at the finish line. Our Great Wall Marathon travel packages are designed to help you and your supporters experience the very best of China before and after race day. Explore Beijing's iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, or extend your adventure to discover the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, cruise through the spectacular landscapes of the Yangtze River, and experience the vibrant energy of Shanghai. Our carefully curated extensions allow you to transform your marathon journey into an unforgettable exploration of one of the world's most fascinating destinations.\r\n\r\nMore than a marathon, the Great Wall Marathon is an opportunity to challenge yourself, immerse yourself in Chinese culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. This is not just a race you'll finish. It's an experience you'll never forget.","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Meals as stated in the itinerary","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":"Bilingual tour guide"},"transfers":{"detail":"Airport arrival transfers and ground transportation as per the itinerary","title":"Transfers"},"trip_extension":{"title":"Trip Extension","detail":"Multiple package options available"},"accommodation":{"title":"Accommodation","detail":"Select from deluxe and comfort accommodation options "},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":"Guaranteed race entry at additional cost"},"celebration_party":{"detail":"Group celebration dinner","title":"Celebration Party"},"excursions":{"title":"Excursions","detail":"Our comprehensive tours include a range of sightseeing per the itinerary."},"helping_hand":{"title":"A Helping Hand","detail":""},"worldwide_events":{"title":"Worldwide Events","detail":""},"medal_bling":{"title":"Medal Bling","detail":"All finishers receive a medal"}},"event_gallery":[{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":62},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":64},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xHTcqiqjPUk"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":63},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":65},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":66}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"Three City (Beijing | Xi\u2019an | Shanghai) with Yangtze River Cruise Deluxe Package","package_duration":"12 Nights","package_dates":"May 12 \u2013 24, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 12","day_content":"(Note: this package is hosted by Marathon Tours & Travel staff with a minimum of 10 participants)<\/em>\r\n\r\nArrive at Beijing International Airport (PEK) between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. \u00a0Scheduled\u00a0transfers to The Kempinski Hotel will be provided during these times. \u00a0If\u00a0your flight does not correspond to the transfers included,\u00a0a\u00a0private\u00a0transfer\u00a0can be\u00a0booked\u00a0at\u00a0additional\u00a0cost. This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception at the hotel."},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 13","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will travel to the Great Wall for a mandatory inspection of the on-Wall route. Both runners and spectators will visit the Great Wall and receive race details. All runners must walk the 3.5 km of the wall, which is part of the Great Wall Marathon course.\u202f It is very important to familiarize yourself with that specific section to take proper precautions and incorporate it into your race strategy. Non-runners may participate in this strenuous walk (good physical condition is required).\u202f\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 14","day_content":"This morning you will enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of Hutong, the old city of Beijing. You will travel the ancient alleyways via three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws. We then travel to the Summer Palace for a tour of the\u00a0man-made\u00a0lake followed by lunch & some shopping. We will return to the hotel early enough to allow you to rest before race day.\u00a0\u00a0Tonight, we will gather at the hotel for a pre-race pasta dinner.\u00a0(breakfast,\u00a0lunch\u00a0and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 15","day_content":"RACE DAY!<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0It will be an early morning departure for the Great Wall Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 8.5K fun run.\u00a0\u00a0A boxed breakfast will be provided upon departure, and\u00a0lunch\u00a0is available after the race.\u00a0\u00a0After your race, be sure to visit the pop-up shops and massage tent, located outside the walls of Yin Yang square, for post-race massage.\u00a0 Buses will return runners and supporters to their hotels. \u00a0Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own.\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 16","day_content":"After breakfast we will take a bus to Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world. We will walk through the square from the south to the north, passing\u00a0Chairman\u00a0Mao\u2019s Mausoleum.\u00a0\u00a0Next is the Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City, one of China\u2019s architectural masterpieces.\u00a0\u00a0Entry to the city was forbidden to the common people until the early 1900\u2019s. We will have lunch in a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for the Gala Dinner.\u00a0(breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 17","day_content":"After breakfast, we will check out of our hotel and transfer to Beijing Airport for the short flight to Xi'an. Upon arrival, we will be met by our English-speaking local guide and transferred to the Hilton Xi'an for check-in and some time at leisure. Take this opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and begin exploring this fascinating ancient capital.\r\n\r\nLater this afternoon, choose from two included activities.\u00a0 Enjoy a self-guided bicycle ride atop the impressive Ming Dynasty City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Originally constructed in 1370, the wall stretches more than 13 kilometers around the historic city center and offers a unique perspective of Xi'an's past and present. Or, for guests who prefer not to participate in the bike ride, an alternative visit to a local museum will be available, offering a deeper look into the art, history, and culture of Xi'an.\r\n\r\nThis evening, we gather for a memorable welcome to Xi'an with the city's famous dumpling banquet at the renowned Defachang Restaurant, a local institution celebrated for its exceptional variety of traditional Chinese dumplings. (breakfast,\u00a0snack\u00a0on plane\u00a0and dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\nNote:<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0You must be under 65 years of age (or sign a waiver) to participate in the bike ride.<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, May 18","day_content":"After breakfast, we visit one of the world's greatest archaeological treasures, the Terracotta Warriors, the life-sized army created to guard the tomb of China's first emperor more than 2,000 years ago. We will also explore the Museum of Bronze Chariots and Horses before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.\r\n\r\nThis afternoon, we visit the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty, before returning to the hotel for free time to relax or explore Xi'an at your own pace.\r\n\r\nThis evening, experience the grandeur of ancient China at a Tang Dynasty Dinner Banquet and Show, where music, dance, and elaborate costumes bring to life the era when Xi'an, then known as Chang'an, served as the capital of China. (breakfast,\u00a0lunch\u00a0and Tang Dynasty Dinner Show included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 19","day_content":"After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Chongqing, where we will be met by our English-speaking guide. Upon arrival, we explore the historic Shapingba District, often referred to as \"Little Chongqing.\" With more than 1,700 years of history, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its traditional architecture, charming cobblestone streets, local teahouses, and lively atmosphere. We'll also enjoy a traditional Chongqing hot pot lunch, a regional specialty.\r\n\r\nThis afternoon, we visit the impressive Chongqing People's Auditorium, one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Built in 1954, this architectural masterpiece is renowned for its grand design and cultural significance.\r\n\r\nLater, we board the Century Victory<\/em> and settle into our cabins. \u00a0Enjoy time to relax and explore the ship before dinner as our Yangtze River cruise begins. The ship is scheduled to depart Chongqing at approximately 10:00 PM.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included \u2013 VIP restaurant)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 20","day_content":"Join us for early yoga or Tai Chi on the sunshine deck before breakfast, or sleep in. As we travel down the\u00a0Yangtze River\u00a0we will see dramatic landscapes along the gorge. After breakfast, take the excursion to Fengdu Ghost City where you will learn about the culture of ghosts and the integration of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism with Chinese traditions.\u00a0A variety of onboard activities & lectures will be available during the afternoon.\u00a0\u00a0Optional Evening show \u201cThe War Fire of Three Kingdoms\u201d (sign up on the cruise ship in advance for\u00a0additional\u00a0cost)\u202f(breakfast, lunch and dinner included \u2013 VIP Restaurant)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 21","day_content":"As we continue down the\u00a0Yangtze River, we will see more dramatic landscapes, including the Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge, carved by the mighty\u00a0Yangtze River.\u00a0Optional shore excursions can be added today\u00a0after\u00a0breakfast or\u00a0spend the morning at your\u00a0leisure.\u00a0After\u00a0lunch, enjoy the included\u00a0excursion on\u00a0Shennv\u00a0Stream (approx. 2 hrs). We will board smaller sampan boats for a short cruise down the gorge to see the famous hanging coffins.\u202f(Breakfast,\u00a0lunch\u00a0and dinner included \u2013 VIP Restaurant)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday May 22","day_content":"After breakfast, join the shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site, the largest hydro dam & water conservancy project in the world.\u202f We will disembark in Yichang after our tour, have lunch and visit the local bungee jump site at Xiling Gorge Happy Valley & Riverside Park.\u00a0 You will have time for some shopping and enjoy a group dinner at Wanda Plaza before heading to the airport for our late flight to Shanghai.\u00a0This evening,\u00a0we\u00a0check\u00a0into the\u00a0Conrad Shanghai.\u00a0(breakfast, lunch &<\/em> dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 23","day_content":"After a leisurely breakfast, we begin our exploration of Shanghai with a visit to the beautiful Yu Garden, one of the city's most treasured attractions. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this classical Chinese garden features elegant pavilions, koi-filled ponds, and traditional architecture that offer a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.\r\n\r\nWe then continue to the historic Bund for a guided walking tour. Stretching along the Huangpu River, the Bund is famous for its impressive collection of colonial-era buildings and provides a fascinating contrast to the modern skyline of Pudong across the water.\r\n\r\nFollowing lunch, we visit the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China and one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. From the observation deck, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including the Bund, Huangpu River, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Shanghai's ever-evolving skyline.\r\n\r\nIn the evening, enjoy a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.\r\n\r\n(breakfast, lunch &<\/em> dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 24","day_content":"After breakfast, bid farewell to China or choose to join an optional half-day excursion to the charming water town of Zhujiajiao, located just outside Shanghai. Often considered the best-preserved of Shanghai's ancient water towns, Zhujiajiao is known for its picturesque canals, centuries-old stone bridges, willow-lined waterways, and traditional architecture that offers a glimpse into China's past.\r\n\r\nStroll through the historic streets, enjoy a scenic boat ride along the canals, and experience a slower pace of life far removed from the bustle of modern Shanghai. The tour includes lunch and returns to the hotel at approximately 1:00 PM.\r\n\r\nGuests wishing to extend their stay may book an additional night at the Conrad Shanghai and enjoy more time exploring this dynamic city. Alternatively, transfer to the airport for your journey home. Please note that guests participating in the Zhujiajiao excursion should schedule international flights departing after 5:00 PM. (breakfast included \u2013 lunch included on half-day tour)<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Note: This excursion requires a minimum of 5 participants)<\/em>\r\n\r\n(itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]},{"package_title":"Beijing & Xi\u2019an Deluxe Package","package_duration":"7 Nights","package_dates":"May 12 \u2013 19, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 12","day_content":"(Note: this package is hosted by Marathon Tours & Travel staff with a minimum of 10 participants)<\/em>\r\n\r\nArrive at Beijing International Airport (PEK) between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. \u00a0Scheduled\u00a0transfers to The Kempinski Hotel will be provided during these times. \u00a0If\u00a0your flight does not correspond to the transfers included,\u00a0a\u00a0private\u00a0transfer\u00a0can be\u00a0booked\u00a0at\u00a0additional\u00a0cost. This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception at the hotel."},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 13","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will travel to the Great Wall for a mandatory inspection of the on-Wall route. Both runners and spectators will visit the Great Wall and receive race details. All runners must walk the 3.5 km of the wall, which is part of the Great Wall Marathon course.\u202f It is very important to familiarize yourself with that specific section to take proper precautions and incorporate it into your race strategy. Non-runners may participate in this strenuous walk (good physical condition is required).\u202f\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 14","day_content":"This morning you will enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of Hutong, the old city of Beijing. You will travel the ancient alleyways via three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws. We then travel to the Summer Palace for a tour of the\u00a0man-made\u00a0lake followed by lunch & some shopping. We will return to the hotel early enough to allow you to rest before race day.\u00a0\u00a0Tonight, we will gather at the hotel for a pre-race pasta dinner.\u00a0(breakfast,\u00a0lunch\u00a0and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 15","day_content":"RACE DAY!\u00a0\u00a0It will be an early morning departure for the Great Wall Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 8.5K fun run.\u00a0\u00a0A boxed breakfast will be provided upon departure, and\u00a0lunch\u00a0is available after the race.\u00a0\u00a0After your race, be sure to visit the pop-up shops and massage tent, located outside the walls of Yin Yang square, for post-race massage.\u00a0 Buses will return runners and supporters to their hotels. \u00a0Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own.\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 16","day_content":"After breakfast we will take a bus to Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world. We will walk through the square from the south to the north, passing\u00a0Chairman\u00a0Mao\u2019s Mausoleum.\u00a0\u00a0Next is the Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City, one of China\u2019s architectural masterpieces.\u00a0\u00a0Entry to the city was forbidden to the common people until the early 1900\u2019s. We will have lunch in a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for the Gala Dinner.\u00a0(breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 17","day_content":"After breakfast, we will check out of our hotel and transfer to Beijing Airport for the short flight to Xi'an. Upon arrival, we will be met by our English-speaking local guide and transferred to the Hilton Xi'an for check-in and some time at leisure. Take this opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and begin exploring this fascinating ancient capital.\r\n\r\nLater this afternoon, choose from two included activities.\u00a0 Enjoy a self-guided bicycle ride atop the impressive Ming Dynasty City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Originally constructed in 1370, the wall stretches more than 13 kilometers around the historic city center and offers a unique perspective of Xi'an's past and present. Or, for guests who prefer not to participate in the bike ride, an alternative visit to a local museum will be available, offering a deeper look into the art, history, and culture of Xi'an.\r\n\r\nThis evening, we gather for a memorable welcome to Xi'an with the city's famous dumpling banquet at the renowned Defachang Restaurant, a local institution celebrated for its exceptional variety of traditional Chinese dumplings. (breakfast,\u00a0snack\u00a0on plane\u00a0and dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\nNote:<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0You must be under 65 years of age (or sign a waiver) to participate in the bike ride.<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, May 18","day_content":"After breakfast, we visit one of the world's greatest archaeological treasures, the Terracotta Warriors, the life-sized army created to guard the tomb of China's first emperor more than 2,000 years ago. We will also explore the Museum of Bronze Chariots and Horses before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.\r\n\r\nThis afternoon, we visit the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty, before returning to the hotel for free time to relax or explore Xi'an at your own pace.\r\n\r\nThis evening, experience the grandeur of ancient China at a Tang Dynasty Dinner Banquet and Show, where music, dance, and elaborate costumes bring to life the era when Xi'an, then known as Chang'an, served as the capital of China. (breakfast,\u00a0lunch\u00a0and Tang Dynasty Dinner Show included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 19","day_content":"After breakfast, say goodbye to China as you will be transferred to the airport to board your returning flight\u00a0home\u00a0to Beijing and home or elsewhere. Flight details will be provided later but international flights home from Beijing should not be booked before 5:00PM.\u202f(breakfast included).<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]},{"package_title":"Beijing Deluxe Package","package_duration":"6 Nights","package_dates":"May 12 \u2013 18, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 12","day_content":"(Note: this package is hosted by Marathon Tours & Travel staff with a minimum of 10 participants)<\/em>\r\n\r\nArrive at Beijing International Airport (PEK) between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. \u00a0Scheduled\u00a0transfers to The Kempinski Hotel will be provided during these times. \u00a0If\u00a0your flight does not correspond to the transfers included,\u00a0a\u00a0private\u00a0transfer\u00a0can be\u00a0booked\u00a0at\u00a0additional\u00a0cost. This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception at the hotel.\r\n\r\n "},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 13","day_content":"Following breakfast, we will travel to the Great Wall for a mandatory inspection of the on-Wall route. Both runners and spectators will visit the Great Wall and receive race details. All runners must walk the 3.5 km of the wall, which is part of the Great Wall Marathon course.\u202f It is very important to familiarize yourself with that specific section to take proper precautions and incorporate it into your race strategy. Non-runners may participate in this strenuous walk (good physical condition is required).\u202f\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 14","day_content":"This morning you will enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of Hutong, the old city of Beijing. You will travel the ancient alleyways via three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws. We then travel to the Summer Palace for a tour of the\u00a0man-made\u00a0lake followed by lunch & some shopping. We will return to the hotel early enough to allow you to rest before race day.\u00a0\u00a0Tonight, we will gather at the hotel for a pre-race pasta dinner.\u00a0(breakfast,\u00a0lunch\u00a0and dinner included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 15","day_content":"RACE DAY!\u00a0\u00a0It will be an early morning departure for the Great Wall Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 8.5K fun run.\u00a0\u00a0A boxed breakfast will be provided upon departure, and\u00a0lunch\u00a0is available after the race.\u00a0\u00a0After your race, be sure to visit the pop-up shops and massage tent, located outside the walls of Yin Yang square, for post-race massage.\u00a0 Buses will return runners and supporters to their hotels. \u00a0Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own.\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 16","day_content":"After breakfast we will take a bus to Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world. We will walk through the square from the south to the north, passing\u00a0Chairman\u00a0Mao\u2019s Mausoleum.\u00a0\u00a0Next is the Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City, one of China\u2019s architectural masterpieces.\u00a0\u00a0Entry to the city was forbidden to the common people until the early 1900\u2019s. We will have lunch in a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for the Gala Dinner.\u00a0(breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 17","day_content":"After breakfast we will continue our sightseeing in Beijing with a trip to the zoo and finish your adventure off with a cultural acrobatic show and Peking Duck dinner at a local restaurant."},{"day_title":"Tuesday, May 18","day_content":"After breakfast we will check out of our hotel and transfer to Beijing Airport. There will be several scheduled group transfers back to the airport corresponding to flight times starting at 7:00 AM and concluding at 3:00 PM.\u202f Private transfers may be arranged if the times do not correspond to your flight at additional cost. Consider extending your time in China by joining one of our longer tours to explore Xi\u2019an, Chongqing, the Yangtze River and Shanghai.\u202f(breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/span><\/i>\u00a0<\/span>"}]},{"package_title":"Beijing Comfort Package","package_duration":"5 Nights","package_dates":"May 12 \u2013 17, 2027","package_days":[{"day_title":"Wednesday, May 12","day_content":"(Please note: This package is NOT hosted by Marathon Tours & Travel staff.)<\/em>\r\n\r\nArrive at Beijing International Airport (PEK)\u00a0or Daxing Airport (PKK) at your leisure and make your own way to the New World Hotel Beijing.\u00a0\u00a0Transfer to\u00a0your hotel is not included but\u00a0a guide will be at the airport to help you navigate taxis,\u00a0or hotel shuttle or the express train.\u00a0 Information will be\u00a0provided in advance of travel. Check into your hotel and\u00a0enjoy an evening in Beijing.\u00a0(no meals included today)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, May 13","day_content":"Following\u00a0an early\u00a0breakfast,\u00a0you\u00a0will check out of our\u00a0Beijing\u00a0hotel and transfer\u00a0to the Great Wall for a mandatory inspection of the on-Wall route. Both runners and spectators will visit the Great Wall and receive race details. All runners must walk\u00a0the 3.5\u00a0km of the wall, which is part of the Great Wall Marathon course.\u202f It is\u00a0very important\u00a0to familiarize yourself with that specific section to take proper precautions and incorporate it into your race strategy. Non-runners may\u00a0participate\u00a0in this strenuous walk (good physical condition is\u00a0required).\u202fAfter\u00a0the race briefing, your tour leader\u00a0has arranged a transfer to your\u00a0new hotel in\u00a0Jizhou,\u00a0located\u00a045-60 minutes\u2019 drive from\u00a0Huangyaguan\u00a0Great Wall, where you have the afternoon at your leisure and will\u00a0spend two nights.\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, May 14","day_content":"Today is yours to enjoy before your race tomorrow. Take in the local atmosphere of\u00a0Jizhou, Tianjin, or go on the optional excursion that takes visitors to Qing Dynasty Tombs. Covering an enormous area and housing five of China\u2019s emperors, 14 empresses and 136 concubines, the Qing tombs are more impressive than the famous Ming dynasty graves but are visited by relatively few.\u00a0\u00a0Lunch is included in this optional tour ($130\/pp\u00a0purchased\u00a0in advance).\u00a0(breakfast\u00a0&\u00a0dinner\u00a0included\u00a0\u2013 lunch is included with Qing Tomb tour)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, May 15","day_content":"RACE DAY!\u00a0\u00a0It will be an early morning departure for the Great Wall Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 8.5K fun run.\u00a0\u00a0A boxed breakfast will be provided upon departure, and\u00a0lunch\u00a0is available after the race.\u00a0\u00a0After your race, be sure to visit the pop-up shops and massage tent, located outside the walls of Yin Yang square, for post-race massage.\u00a0 Buses will return runners and supporters to their hotels. \u00a0Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own.\u00a0(breakfast and lunch included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, May 16","day_content":"Today is your recovery day!\u00a0\u00a0Sleep in,\u00a0relax\u00a0or do a bit of shopping in Beijing center. You may choose one of the two optional excursions (must be booked in advance):\u00a0City of Emperors\u00a0will take you to the Forbidden City, the Temple of\u00a0Heaven\u00a0and the Pearl Market\u00a0($115\u00a0per person\u00a0\u2013\u00a0includes lunch).\u00a0Or\u00a0opt for\u00a0Hutongs by Rickshaw\u00a0($95 per person \u2013 includes lunch)\u00a0where you will be offered a unique glimpse into the city\u2019s rich history and traditional lifestyle. Enjoy a traditional lunch after\u00a0your\u00a0rickshaw tour through the old hutong area,\u00a0showcasing\u00a0the historic way of life in Beijing.\u00a0\u00a0In the evening, all participants will be picked up at their hotels and taken to the Gala Dinner venue.\u00a0\u00a0(breakfast and dinner included)\u00a0(lunch included on optional tours)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, May 17","day_content":"After breakfast, say goodbye to China as you will be transferred to the airport to board your returning flight home. \u202f(breakfast included).<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"Make it a tour of a lifetime by combining our Great Wall and Bhutan Thunder Dragon packages.<\/strong> Compare two historic cultures, from the bustle of China to the quiet tranquility of Bhutan.\u00a0 The Dragon Challenge<\/a> is two (2) challenging races separated by 1800 miles and eight (8) days!","event_extensions_packages":null,"event_packages_and_rates":"Three City with Yangtze River Cruise | Twelve Night Deluxe Package: May 12 \u2013 24, 2027<\/strong>\r\n\u00a0(minimum of 5 participants required)<\/em>\r\n\r\nFeatures:<\/strong>\r\n