After retiring last year, he handed over responsibilities to his daughter-in-law, ensuring that this family commitment to the wall endures. Now, he visits three times a week and does what he can, picking up waste and reporting hazards.

Although the job is lonely and doesn't pay well, a dedicated team of 39 grassroots protectors in the county work tirelessly, and receive about 2,000 yuan ($275.61) a year for their efforts.

For Wen Zhanlian, director of the Great Wall protection station in Tianzhu, the environment that conservationists work in is challenging, with inconvenient transportation and many sites located at altitudes of over 3,000 meters.

"In such conditions, it is their love and passion for the Great Wall that helps them carry on," she says.