Beijing Rhyme: Simatai Sunset & Gubei Evening Cruise

Exploring the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town with Beijing Rhyme: Sunset Views and Cultural Experiences

If you’re considering a day trip from Beijing that combines iconic sights with authentic cultural touches, the Beijing Rhyme: Simatai Sunset & Gubei Evening Cruise tour might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve reviewed countless similar experiences, and this one stands out for its thoughtful mix of sightseeing, hands-on activities, and local flavor.

What I love about this tour is its focus on authentic, less-crowded sections of the Great Wall—Simatai’s east section is perfect for relaxed exploration away from the busier tourist spots. The inclusion of a cultural mini-class adds an educational twist that’s both fun and meaningful. The homemade lunch and optional craft activities, like making sugar paintings or lanterns, provide genuine local experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing.

A possible consideration is the length of the tour, which can extend up to 10 hours. While the sights and activities are rewarding, it’s a long day, and some travelers might prefer a shorter, more streamlined option. Still, if you’re looking for a comprehensive experience that combines scenery, culture, and local life, this trip suits those eager to see a different side of Beijing’s surroundings.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of iconic views, cultural engagement, and relaxed exploration. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy multi-faceted experiences rather than just rushing through the highlights.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience away from crowded tourist areas, focusing on the east section of Simatai.
• Interactive cultural activities, including making a Great Wall-themed bookmark or creating sugar paintings.
• Gourmet homemade lunch at a farmyard near the Wall, offering a taste of local flavors.
• Stunning sunset views from Gubei Water Town, with opportunities to enjoy folk performances and nighttime photography.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Educational mini-class led by local cultural heritage volunteers deepens your understanding of the Great Wall.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a shared transfer from designated spots within Beijing’s 5th Ring Road, with the exact pickup point at Dongzhimen around 16:00. This setup is convenient for travelers staying centrally, and the small group size (max of 10) keeps things intimate. From there, the journey to the east section of Simatai is a smooth ride, avoiding the hustle and bustle of more touristy parts.

Exploring the Simatai Great Wall

Once you arrive at Simatai, you’re greeted with a view that’s a little different from the crowded sections of the Wall. The less trafficked east section offers a peaceful environment ideal for casual sightseeing. This part of the Wall is known for its slightly rugged, authentic feel, with fewer modern renovations, making it a more genuine experience.

A highlight here is the Great Wall culture mini-class hosted by local heritage volunteers. They teach you how to identify the age of bricks based on their characteristics, and share stories about the Wall’s restoration efforts. This isn’t just a photo stop; it’s a chance to understand the history and craftsmanship involved in one of the world’s most famous monuments.

You’ll also make a Great Wall-themed rubbing bookmark as a keepsake—an activity appreciated by many for its personal touch. Reviewers note that guides like Jenny are very knowledgeable and passionate, which makes the mini-class engaging. One reviewer mentioned, “It was fascinating to learn about the different types of bricks and how they tell a story of the Wall’s evolution.”

Lunch at the Farmyard

After exploring, the tour takes you down to a farmyard at the foot of the Wall for a homemade fried sauce noodle lunch. The homemade aspect is a big plus—local cooks prepare dishes that reflect authentic flavors you might not find in regular restaurants. The noodles are simple but satisfying, providing much-needed energy for the afternoon ahead.

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Gubei Water Town and Folk Activities

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Gubei Water Town, a beautifully preserved town combining traditional architecture with peaceful waterways. Here, the tour offers a choice of two craft activities: making a paper lantern (with cultural heritage paper art) or creating sugar paintings with Chinese zodiac patterns, including tasting.

Reviewers noted that the activities are beginner-friendly and fun, with one saying, “I never thought I’d make a sugar painting that actually looked like a zodiac animal, but the artist was very patient.” These crafts add a meaningful layer to your visit, making for thoughtful souvenirs.

Market Stroll and Snacks

Next, your guide takes you through the town’s street market, where you can sample traditional Beijing snacks—like ludagun (sweet rice rolls) and aiwowo (glutinous rice balls). Sampling these treats is a delightful way to connect with local flavors, and the guide can advise on what’s worth trying.

Sunset and Nighttime Delights

As the day winds down, the tour offers a free outdoor folk performance—think Yangko dance and shadow puppet show clips—that showcase regional traditions. Then, you’ll stroll along the canal to admire Gubei Water Town’s illuminated night scene, with red lanterns casting a warm glow over the waterways. Photographers will love capturing the reflections in the water from the stone bridges.

The night tour of the Great Wall at sunset is a special feature available by reservation (limited daily). It’s a rare chance to see the Wall bathed in the golden glow of dusk, with fewer visitors around. Reviewers have called the view “breathtaking,” and many appreciate the tranquility of this time of day.

Return Journey

The tour concludes with a shared transfer back to Beijing around 21:00-22:30, depending on the sunset timing and your chosen activities. The small group size and professional guides make the return smooth and comfortable.

Breaking Down the Value

At a glance, this experience offers more than just sightseeing. The inclusion of hands-on cultural activities and local cuisine elevates it from a typical day trip. The small group size means more personalized attention, and the knowledgeable guides help deepen your understanding of both the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town.

While the duration can be up to 10 hours, that’s a fair trade for the richness of experience — seeing the Wall in a less crowded section, learning its stories, and engaging with local crafts. The homemade lunch is a standout, offering genuine flavors that reflect regional cooking traditions.

Pricing-wise, it’s competitive considering all the included activities, the transportation, and the personalized service. For travelers eager to combine history, culture, and scenic beauty in one trip, the value is substantial.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for curious travelers who appreciate culture and authentic experiences. It suits those who are comfortable with a full day of exploring, walking, and engaging in crafts. The smaller group size is ideal if you prefer a more intimate setting, and the focus on less-crowded parts of the Wall means it’s well-suited for visitors seeking a quieter, more meaningful visit.

If you’re interested in photography, the sunset views and illuminated Gubei Water Town offer fantastic opportunities. Conversely, if you’re looking for a quick, high-paced visit, this might feel a bit lengthy.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers who value a genuine, layered experience of China’s cultural and scenic highlights, this tour is a solid choice. It balances scenic views, educational moments, and hands-on activities to create a memorable day.

The knowledgeable guides, especially those like Jenny, make a real difference—bringing the history and stories of the Wall alive. The chance to enjoy a less-crowded section of the Wall combined with the charming Water Town at sunset makes for a truly special outing.

While it’s a longer day with a packed itinerary, the richness of experiences, local food, and folk performances provide great value, especially for those looking to deepen their connection with Chinese culture beyond just taking photos.

FAQs

• What is the meeting point for the tour?

The tour starts at Dongzhimen within Beijing’s 5th Ring Road, with pickup at 16:00.

• How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 6.5 to 10 hours, including sightseeing, activities, and travel time.

• Are the activities suitable for all ages?

The activities like making sugar paintings and lanterns are beginner-friendly and suitable for most ages, but the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments.

• Is the night tour of the Great Wall included?

The night tour is available by reservation (limited daily) and must be booked 3 days in advance; it’s not automatically included.

• What kind of food is served during lunch?

The lunch is homemade fried sauce noodles, prepared at a farmyard near the Wall, offering authentic local flavors.

• Are there shopping stops?

No, the tour does not include forced shopping, though you can explore the street market and try local snacks at your own expense.

• Can I participate in the craft activities?

Yes, you can choose to make a paper lantern or sugar paintings with a local vendor, both suitable for beginners.

• What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes, a camera for capturing sunset views, and cash for snacks or souvenirs.

• Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some activities or areas might require assistance.

• How many people are in each group?

The maximum group size is 10, ensuring a more personal experience.

In summary, the Beijing Rhyme: Simatai Sunset & Gubei Water Town tour offers a well-rounded, culturally immersive day that balances scenic beauty, storytelling, and hands-on fun. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see a quieter side of the Great Wall and engage with local traditions, making it a memorable addition to any Beijing itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby