Beijing: Getaway to Simatai Great Wall & Gubei Water Town

Beijing: Getaway to Simatai Great Wall & Gubei Water Town

Travelers often seek a glimpse into China’s iconic landmarks with a touch of local flavor. This tour combining Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town offers just that—an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching experience at an affordable price. While it’s packed into a 10-hour day, it balances well between sightseeing, cultural insights, and capturing breathtaking views.

What makes this tour appealing? First, you get to visit one of the most authentic and less crowded sections of the Great Wall, away from the throngs at Badaling or Mutianyu. Second, the optional night tour with illuminated battlements creates a fairy-tale atmosphere, perfect for photographers and night-owl explorers. Third, the charm of Gubei Water Town with its canals, quaint streets, and lively street performances offers a taste of traditional China.

A possible consideration? The tour involves a full day with some walking, cobblestone streets, and a coach ride, so it might be tiring for those not used to long days of sightseeing. Also, if your hotel isn’t near the city center, expect some extra planning for pickup. Overall, it’s ideal for those looking for a well-rounded, fairly priced introduction to China’s legendary wall and a picturesque water town without the crowds.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty, especially if they prefer guided, all-in-one day trips with a manageable price tag.

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Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Visit a lesser-crowded section of the Great Wall for a more genuine encounter.
• Flexible Options: Choose to explore by day or enjoy the magical atmosphere of the illuminated night tour.
• Cultural Charm: Gubei Water Town offers canals, traditional streets, and lively performances.
• Photographer’s Dream: Endless chances for memorable photos in postcard-perfect settings.
• Comfort & Convenience: Organized coach transport, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and flexible cancellation policies.
• Value for Money: The entire package at $36 per person provides a comprehensive experience that balances quality and affordability.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Pickup and Transportation

Starting from a central location in Beijing, the tour begins early, with most pickups scheduled between 6:00 and 6:30 AM. If you’re staying outside the 4th ring road, the guide will suggest extra costs for pickup, but the convenience of door-to-door service can make a long day feel smoother. The coach ride to Gubei Water Town and the Great Wall region is approximately 2 hours, giving you a chance to relax or chat with fellow travelers. Sharing a coach with other travelers creates an easygoing atmosphere, and the trip is well-paced, ensuring you arrive refreshed for the day’s adventures.

Exploring Gubei Water Town

Gubei Water Town is the first stop, offering a scenic and peaceful snapshot of traditional China. The village is built along canals illuminated by lanterns, which makes it especially photogenic at sunset or during the night. You’ll wander cobblestone alleys, cross stone bridges, and enjoy the serene beauty of this riverside settlement.

Reviews note that the town feels like a ‘living museum,’ with cultural performances and traditional crafts adding to the atmosphere. Visitors also appreciate tasting local snacks, which provides a genuine taste of regional flavors. The optional walk here lasts about 1.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for photos, browsing shops, or simply soaking in the peaceful environment.

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The Guided Tour of Simatai Great Wall

Next, the highlight—the Simatai Great Wall—known for its dramatic scenery and well-preserved, original architecture. Unlike more tourist-heavy sections, Simatai offers a chance to step back in time and experience the Wall’s rugged beauty. The guided tour lasts about 2.5 hours, during which you’ll explore the battlements, towers, and winding pathways that cling to mountain ridges.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides for their insights about the Wall’s construction and history, making the visit more meaningful. The views from the Wall are breathtaking—the kind that make your camera work overtime. You’ll appreciate the peacefulness of this section, which is less crowded and more authentic.

Night Tour: A Magical Perspective

For those opting for the night tour, the walls are lit up, creating a fairy-tale scene under a starry sky. The experience transforms the familiar landscape into something almost surreal. Many mention that it’s a perfect setting for photos or quiet reflection, away from daytime crowds. If you love landscape photography or simply want a unique memory, this upgrade is highly recommended and adds a special touch to the day.

Wrapping Up at Gubei Water Town

After exploring the Wall and town, the tour returns to Gubei Water Town for a leisurely walk or to enjoy some street performances. This is a relaxing way to end the day, with options to grab a local snack or buy souvenirs. The return coach departs around 4:00 PM if you’re on the next-day return option, giving you some flexibility to wind down.

Practicalities & Tips

• Comfortable shoes are essential—cobblestone paths and some uphill walking are unavoidable.
• Bring passport or ID for registration at entry points.
• Sunglasses are advisable, especially for daytime visits.
• If you’re interested in night photography, bring a camera or smartphone with good low-light capabilities.
• The tour is suitable for most people, though those with altitude sickness or over 95 years may want to consider other options, given the physical demands and high elevations.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $36 per person, this tour provides access to some of China’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides on your own. The inclusion of a guided tour enriches the experience with local insights, and the optional night walk creates a memorable experience that many other tours don’t offer.

The small group or private options enhance comfort and personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and explore at your own pace. It’s a cost-effective way to see more than just the typical tourist spots and get a taste of both the history and the natural beauty surrounding Beijing.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich day trip without the crowds. It’s ideal if you’re keen on photography or simply want to enjoy the peaceful majesty of the Great Wall in a less commercialized environment. If you’re interested in exploring traditional water towns and enjoying local performances, this tour combines those interests seamlessly.

It suits those who prefer guided convenience, especially with informative guides enhancing the experience. It’s also a good option for budget-conscious travelers who want great value for a full day of sightseeing.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with pickups starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $36 per person, making it an affordable option for a comprehensive day trip.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome. Sharing a coach with others helps make the experience more social and cost-effective.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and sunglasses. Consider a camera for photos, especially if you opt for the night tour.

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup options are available for most downtown Beijing hotels, usually between 6:00 and 6:30 AM. Outskirts may incur extra costs.

Can I do the night tour?
Yes, upgrading to the night tour with illuminated battlements is optional and highly recommended for a magical view.

What about the group size?
You can choose a private group or join a shared coach with other travelers.

Is this suitable for older travelers?
While most people will enjoy it, those over 95 or with mobility issues might find the physical demands challenging.

What if I want to stay longer in Gubei Water Town?
The tour provides about 1.5 hours at Gubei Water Town, but you can plan additional time on your own if you wish.

In The Sum Up

This tour balances affordability with a meaningful visit to two of China’s most picturesque sites. You’ll enjoy authentic sections of the Great Wall, free from overwhelming crowds, and soak in the tranquil beauty of Gubei Water Town. The optional night walk adds a magical layer to the experience, making it ideal for those seeking both history and photo opportunities.

For travelers who want a well-organized, insightful, and scenic day trip from Beijing, this tour offers a compelling package. Its combination of cultural charm, stunning views, and practical logistics makes it a smart choice for a wide range of visitors—including those with limited time but big travel dreams.

If you value knowledgeable guides, authentic scenery, and cost-effective experiences, this adventure is likely to meet and exceed your expectations.

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