Group Coach Day Tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

Exploring the Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall: An Honest Review of a Full-Day Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience some of China’s most iconic sights outside the hustle of central Beijing, this group coach day tour to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and tour features paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a well-balanced mix of culture, historical exploration, and stunning scenery, all wrapped up in a convenient package.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines authentic local life in Gubei Water Town, the chance to walk along a less-restored, original section of the Great Wall, and the comfort of hotel pickup and round-trip transport. The fact that it’s a full-day experience gives you plenty of time to soak in these sights without feeling rushed. However, a potential consideration is the early start time—6:30 am pickup might be a long day for some. Still, if you’re a history buff, a lover of scenic views, or simply want a comprehensive day trip from Beijing, this tour offers excellent value.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate guided outings, want to skip the hassle of planning transport, and are eager to explore both a historic section of the Great Wall and a charming water town in one go. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but hungry for a deep dive into some of China’s most memorable sights.

Good To Know

• Convenience: Hotel pickup and round-trip transport make it easy to access the sites without hassle.
• Authentic Experiences: Walking along the original Ming Dynasty section of the Great Wall offers a more genuine experience.
• Cultural Charm: Gubei Water Town provides insight into traditional Chinese water town life, complete with alleyways, waterways, and local crafts.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring history to life and enhance the visit.
• Great Value: All entrance fees and transport included at a competitive price.
• Early Start: Be prepared for a 6:30 am pickup, which means an early but rewarding day.

An In-Depth Look at This Beijing Day Trip

Convenience and Comfort: The Transport and Timing

Starting early at 6:30 am from your centrally located Beijing hotel, you’ll board a comfortable coach with air-conditioning—perfect after a chilly morning pickup. The approximately 2.5-hour drive to Gubei Water Town is made enjoyable with a light breakfast served on board, offering a gentle start to your day. The group size is capped at around 11 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and attentive guidance without feeling cramped.

This setup is ideal for travelers who dislike complicated logistics. The included hotel pickup means you won’t need to worry about navigating Beijing’s busy subway system early in the morning. Plus, the round-trip transport guarantees a stress-free return at the end of the day.

First Stop: Gubei Water Town

Arriving in Gubei Water Town, you’re transported into a scene straight out of a traditional water village. This town is far from Beijing’s urban chaos, offering a tranquil atmosphere with maze-like alleyways and scenic waterways. It’s a fantastic spot to absorb local life, browse artisan workshops, or explore on your own.

One reviewer, Jean Louis S, described his experience as “a dedicated private tour for two with a driver and an English-speaking guide.” He appreciated the quietness of Gubei Water Town and the chance to enjoy a peaceful walk after a busy day of sightseeing. Some travelers choose to visit a Chinese wine distillery or watch traditional martial arts performances—adding cultural layers to the visit.

While lunch isn’t included in the tour, many visitors find the local eateries offer hearty, affordable Chinese cuisine. Exploring on your own after a quick meal allows you to choose the pace and immerse yourself further into this charming town.

The Highlight: Simatai Great Wall

After lunch, the journey continues to the Simatai section of the Great Wall, located about 120 km from Beijing in Miyun County. This part of the wall is special because it’s the only remaining section built by the Ming Dynasty that has been preserved in its original form. Unlike the heavily restored Badaling or Mutianyu sections, Simatai retains a more rugged, authentic feel, with steep inclines and narrow pathways.

Constructed in the 6th century and rebuilt by General Qi Jiguang in the 16th century, Simatai boasts 35 beacon towers along its 3.4-mile stretch. Travelers can expect a walk along parts of the wall that showcase impressive Ming architecture, with expansive views over the surrounding mountains. The steepness and original features make it a more challenging but rewarding climb.

A guide will share stories about the wall’s history, explaining how it served as a defense line and a symbol of imperial China’s strength. Reviewers mention that guides like the one described as “very nice” and “knowledgeable” enhance the experience significantly, helping visitors appreciate the significance of what they’re seeing.

Authenticity and Photo Opportunities

The chance to walk along an un-restored section means plenty of photo opportunities—think uneven stones, watchtowers, and panoramic vistas. For many, the highlight is simply standing atop the wall, imagining the centuries of history beneath their feet. The views are described as “breathtaking,” and many visitors note that this part of the wall feels more “real” compared to the more touristy sections.

End of the Day and Return

After hours of walking, sightseeing, and photo snapping, the group heads back to Beijing, arriving in the late afternoon. The tour ends near a subway station in the eastern part of Beijing, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your hotel.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $287.36 per person, the tour covers hotel pickup, transport, entrance fees, and the guidance of an English-speaking guide. This kind of all-inclusive package can save you both money and time, especially when compared to booking transport and guides separately. The inclusion of a small group makes the experience feel more personalized and less rushed.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who bring the sites to life with engaging stories, making the history accessible and interesting. Your guide’s insights add depth that you might miss exploring independently.

The Experience’s Strengths

• The combination of Gubei Water Town and Simatai encapsulates both cultural charm and historical grandeur.
• The original Ming Dynasty section is a rare find, providing a more genuine sense of the Great Wall’s history.
• The scenic drive offers a chance to see the countryside and escape Beijing’s city buzz.
• The early start ensures you beat some of the crowds, especially at the Great Wall.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early start time—if you’re not a morning person, it might feel a bit tough. Also, the tour doesn’t include lunch or dinner, so you’ll want to budget for meals. For travelers hoping for a more relaxed pace or a private experience, this might feel a little rushed or guided for some tastes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and photography lovers eager to capture the iconic views of the Great Wall. It also suits those who prefer organized guided trips rather than attempting to navigate transport and site logistics alone. If you’re short on time but want to see both a traditional water town and an authentic stretch of the Great Wall, this tour strikes a good balance between convenience, value, and depth.

It’s perfect for travelers comfortable with early mornings and looking for a comprehensive day out from Beijing. The small group size fosters a more personalized experience, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for all hotels?
Pickup is available from over 36 hotels in downtown Beijing. If staying outside this area, you may need to meet at the designated hotel, such as the Holiday Inn Express Beijing Dongzhimen.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup, round-trip coach transportation, an English-speaking guide, and some simple breakfast food served on the coach.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included. Travelers should plan to purchase their own lunch during the day.

How long is the drive to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall?
The journey takes about 2.5 hours each way, allowing ample time to explore once you arrive.

What is the approximate duration of the sightseeing?
The entire tour lasts around 8 hours, giving enough time to enjoy Gubei Water Town, walk along the Great Wall, and return comfortably in the afternoon.

Can I visit other sites after the tour?
Yes, the tour ends near a subway station, making it easy to continue exploring Beijing or head back to your hotel.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, a minimum of 2 adults is required to book.

Is there a possibility to cancel?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by Century Holiday, known for organized group tours in China.

Final Thoughts

This group coach day trip to Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall offers an excellent way to explore some of China’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning logistics. The combination of authentic scenery, historical architecture, and professional guidance makes it a strong choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded and memorable day.

Its highlight is the original Ming Dynasty section of the Great Wall, providing a more genuine experience than the heavily restored alternatives. Meanwhile, Gubei Water Town offers a peaceful, scenic escape that complements the grandeur of the wall perfectly.

For those seeking a convenient, well-organized tour with a personal touch, this experience delivers on value and authenticity. Just remember to set your alarm early, bring your camera, and prepare for an immersive day in the Chinese countryside and history.

To sum it up, this tour suits travelers eager to blend culture with scenic beauty, while appreciating the comfort of guided travel. It’s especially suitable for history lovers and those wanting to see the ‘real’ parts of the Great Wall and traditional Chinese water towns in one memorable day.