Walk the Great Wall of China with Google's Virtual Tour

Explore the Great Wall of China with Google’s New Virtual Experience

Google’s Arts & Culture division has unveiled a novel online platform, allowing users to embark on a virtual journey along the Great Wall of China. This immersive experience offers a 360-degree tour of a remarkably well-maintained section of the wall.

A Detailed Virtual Tour

The “Walk the Great Wall of China” experience features a comprehensive collection of 370 images. Furthermore, it incorporates 35 narratives that delve into the intricate architectural aspects of this globally recognized landmark.

According to Pierre Caessa, Google Arts & Cultures program manager, the Great Wall of China stands as the largest human-built structure globally. It’s a highly visited heritage site, attracting over 10 million visitors annually.

However, not everyone has the opportunity to witness the Great Wall in person. This new virtual experience, developed in partnership with expert Dong Yaohui and curators from Gubei Water Town, aims to bridge that gap.

Discovering the Wall’s History and Preservation

Users can now gain a deeper understanding of the Great Wall’s rich history. The experience provides access to sections that are typically difficult to reach physically.

A key objective is to enhance awareness regarding the ongoing efforts to preserve the Great Wall for generations to come.

Interactive Features and Hidden Details

The virtual tour includes sweeping panoramic views of the wall. Users can also explore 360-degree perspectives of watchtowers and various sections.

The experience also details the construction timeline and methods employed in building the Great Wall. It allows users to investigate the wall’s structure at a granular level.

Intriguingly, users can examine hidden signatures, stamps, and enigmatic patterns etched onto the bricks themselves.

Google’s Continued Investment in Virtual Exploration

Google has consistently pioneered 360-degree virtual tours in recent years. This commitment to the technology continues to expand.

In 2016, the company launched a virtual exploration of U.S. national parks. Subsequent initiatives have included similar virtual tours and explorations into virtual reality applications.

For example, Google introduced a virtual reality art gallery in 2017. The “Tour Creator” tool, released in 2018, empowered students to design their own VR tours.

Accessing the Virtual Experience

Interested individuals can access the new experience by visiting the “Walk the Great Wall of China” website. Alternatively, the Google Arts & Culture app is available for download on both Android and iOS platforms.