Mutianyu Great Wall And Gubei Watertown Private Day Tour

Exploring the Mutianyu Great Wall and Gubei Water Town on a Private Day Tour

If you’re looking to see two of Beijing’s most iconic sights without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar transport or crowded spots, this Mutianyu Great Wall and Gubei Water Town private tour might be just what you need. It promises a seamless day of sightseeing, paired with the comfort and flexibility of private transportation.

What immediately catches the eye about this experience are three key advantages: the chance to visit the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall away from the crowds, the opportunity to relax and explore Gubei Water Town at your own pace, and the convenience of direct hotel pickups and drop-offs. Plus, the positive reviews highlight friendly guides and stunning views that make it stand out.

That said, a potential consideration is the extra cost for entrance tickets, shuttle buses, or cable cars — which are not included in the base price. Travelers who prefer all-inclusive packages might have to budget for these extras separately.

This tour is a great fit for those who want a personalized, flexible day out from Beijing, especially if you value comfort, authenticity, and avoiding tourist traps.

Good To Know

• Private Transport offers comfort, privacy, and flexibility in planning your day.
• Spectacular Views at Mutianyu and Gubei Water Town provide memorable photo opportunities.
• Flexible Departures help you tailor your schedule to your preferences.
• Skip the Crowds at Mutianyu, known for fewer visitors than Badaling.
• Authentic Experience with reconstructed traditional courtyard buildings and scenic lakeside villages.
• Additional Costs for tickets and shuttle rides are separate but manageable, adding value to the overall experience.

A Closer Look at the Experience

This private tour, offered by Benny’s Guide & Driver Service, is designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress of group tours or public transportation. Starting with a hotel pickup—an often overlooked but much-appreciated perk—you’ll be whisked away in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. This sets the tone for a smooth, hassle-free day.

The Mutianyu Great Wall: A Scenic Wonder

First up is Mutianyu, a popular stretch of the Great Wall known for its breathtaking views and relatively peaceful atmosphere compared to Badaling. Spanning 2,500 meters, it winds through mountains, offering sweeping vistas and the chance to appreciate the scale of the wall without the throngs of travelers.

The reviews mention how the guide and driver are both friendly and accommodating. One reviewer praised the driver for speaking good English and arriving early, giving them a head start on the crowds—a bonus if you want those perfect photos before too many visitors arrive. The site’s natural surroundings change with seasons: vibrant flowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery leaves in autumn, and snow-covered serenity in winter.

While entrance tickets are not included, visitors can opt for cable cars or chairlifts (an additional $50 per person) to ascend and descend, which enhances the experience—especially if you’re short on time or energy. Many travelers enjoy the ease of using cable cars for the ascent, as it offers stunning aerial views of the mountains and the wall.

Gubei Water Town: A Picturesque Lakeside Village

After soaking in the Great Wall’s majesty, the tour moves on to Gubei Water Town, a scenic water town with reconstructed traditional courtyards and a crystal-clear lake—Mandarin Duck Lake. It’s often called “Wuzhen in Beijing” because of its charming waterways, mountains, and old-world architecture.

Set against the backdrop of the Simatai Great Wall, Gubei Water Town is regarded as a peaceful escape. It combines natural beauty with cultural charm, with many buildings designed to resemble ancient villages, yet all built in the traditional courtyard style. The reviews suggest that visitors really appreciate the relaxed pace, with approximately two hours allocated to explore.

One reviewer specifically mentioned the joy of visiting this scenic water town, appreciating the blend of mountains, water, and well-preserved architecture. The location’s unique setting makes it perfect for leisurely strolls, photography, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere away from Beijing’s urban sprawl.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget For

The tour’s price of $149 per person covers private transportation, air-conditioned comfort, and hotel pickup and drop-off—a package that offers excellent value for the convenience and flexibility it provides.

However, the admission tickets and shuttle buses or cable cars up and down Mutianyu and Gubei Water Town are not included ($50 per person). While this might seem like an added expense, it allows travelers the choice of how they want to experience these sites—whether they prefer to walk or use the lifts.

Other extras like meals or gratuities are also not included, so it’s wise to bring some cash for snacks, drinks, or tipping your guides and driver.

Real Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that this tour consistently earns high praise, with a perfect 5-star rating. Guests love the knowledgeable guides who make the experience more engaging, and the scenic views that make their photos truly special. One reviewer highlighted their driver’s friendliness and perfect English, which made communication effortless and added a personal touch.

Another shared that arriving early meant avoiding the bulk of the crowds, a tactic that many seasoned travelers swear by when visiting popular sites. The ability to explore at your own pace is a real highlight, especially at Gubei Water Town, where you can wander leisurely without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Works

This tour hits the sweet spot for travelers craving a personalized experience without the complexities of independent travel. The private vehicle means no waiting or navigating confusing public transport options, which is a significant advantage outside Beijing’s subway network.

The flexibility of choosing departure times allows you to tailor your day—whether you prefer an early start to beat the crowds or a more relaxed late-morning departure. The scenic stops, combined with the comfort of a private ride, create a balanced day that feels exclusive yet accessible.

While the extra costs for tickets and cable cars are worth budgeting for, the overall value remains high given the convenience and the chance to see two incredible sights in one day.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic landscapes. If you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation, or if you want to maximize your sightseeing time without the hassle, this private tour offers a perfect solution.

It suits those who enjoy scenic vistas and photo opportunities, and for anyone wanting to avoid the crowds at the most popular sections of the Great Wall. It’s also ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as the tour includes options for cable cars and lifts, reducing strenuous walking.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Beijing and craving a hassle-free yet authentic experience of its most iconic sights, this private tour provides an excellent combination of convenience, scenic beauty, and cultural charm. You’ll love the personalized attention, the stunning vistas, and the ability to explore at your own pace.

While it’s not a fully all-inclusive package—additional costs for tickets and transportation within sites—this flexibility allows you to tailor your day and manage expenses effectively. The positive reviews, especially praising the friendly guides and unforgettable views, underscore how well this tour delivers value for money.

In short, if you want a memorable day out with fewer crowds, scenic landscapes, and the comfort of private transport, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Beijing hotel, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving enough time to explore both sites at a relaxed pace.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, tickets for the Great Wall, Gubei Water Town, shuttle buses, and cable cars are not included and cost around $50 per person.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, spring and autumn offer the most scenic views—flowers blooming or leaves changing color.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, a variety of morning departure options are available, allowing you to plan your day precisely.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Lifts and cable cars are available, which help reduce walking.

How many people are in a group?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Cash for tickets, some snacks, a camera, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour follows a set schedule, the private nature allows some flexibility during the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, the Mutianyu Great Wall and Gubei Water Town private day tour strikes an impressive balance between comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity. It’s ideal for those wanting a stress-free way to experience some of Beijing’s most famous sights, with the flexibility to explore at their own pace.