Cyclists ride along the No 1 Great Wall Tourist Road (Motian Ridge Section) in Datong city. [Photo/Shanxi news network] 

The "No 1 Great Wall Tourist Road (Motian Ridge Section)" cycling route in Zuoyun county, Datong city, recently made it to the list of China's Outdoor Sports Selected Cycling Routes for 2023 released by the Chinese Cycling Association. 

Among the 10 selected boutique cycling routes, this is the only one located in North China's Shanxi province. 

Situated at an elevation of 1,200 to 2,000 meters, Zuoyun county boasts a favorable ecological environment with well-maintained roads and varied terrain, making it an ideal place for both professional and amateur cyclists to engage in aerobic and anaerobic training. 

The cycling route passes through eight villages, Nanchan Temple, as well as multiple relics and sections of the Great Wall. Among them, the Motian Ridge scenic area offers a rich variety of landscapes, with the highlight being the Motianling Great Wall section and its surrounding ancient castles. 

In recent years, national and provincial-level road cycling events have been held on this route, attracting many cycling and self-driving enthusiasts to come and experience the charm of the No 1 Great Wall Tourist Road and admire the magnificent scenery along the ancient Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) throughout the year.