- Exploring Gubei Water Town in Just Two Days
- Good To Know
- What to Expect from the Gubei Water Town 2-Day Package
- Day 1: Arrival at Gubei Water Town
- Day 2: The Great Wall and Hot Springs
- The Authentic Charm of Gubei Water Town
- Practical Tips
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More 2-Day Experiences in Beijing
- More Evening Tours in Beijing
- More Tour Reviews in Beijing
- Looking for something different? Other Beijing activities we've written about
Exploring Gubei Water Town in Just Two Days

Taking a quick trip to Gubei Water Town offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and a taste of old Beijing life—all for an impressively low price of just $13.12 per person. This tour package, offered by Century Holiday, is perfect for travelers seeking a compact yet enriching escape that combines historical sights, natural hot springs, and local cuisine.
What makes this experience appealing? First, the accessibility and affordability make it a feasible choice even for budget-conscious travelers. Second, the unique combination of water town scenery and the Great Wall, with convenient cable car rides and the option to relax in hot springs, elevates the overall value. Third, the included local food, especially the fish dinner, adds an authentic flavor to the trip.
A potential downside? The self-expense for transportation to Gubei Water Town isn’t included, which means you’ll need to plan your journey. This could be a minor hassle, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transit options. Still, for those ready to explore a less touristy side of Beijing, this package offers a compelling, budget-friendly introduction.
This tour is ideal for travelers craving a snapshot of traditional Chinese life, scenic views, and a good deal. It suits those who appreciate guided experiences but don’t mind organizing their own transport to the site.
Good To Know

Affordable price point combined with a full experience.
Includes key attractions like the Great Wall and hot springs.
Authentic local meals enhance culture.
Self-arranged transport allows flexibility but requires planning.
Guided support adds value through knowledgeable guides.
Suitable for most travelers with basic mobility and interest in Chinese culture.
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What to Expect from the Gubei Water Town 2-Day Package

This package offers a compact yet immersive look into one of Beijing’s most scenic and culturally rich areas. Priced at just over $13 per person, it’s a surprisingly cost-effective way to tick off multiple highlights without sacrificing quality. The key is understanding what each part of the itinerary offers and how it fits into your overall travel goals.
Day 1: Arrival at Gubei Water Town
The journey begins with your own arrangement to reach Gubei Water Town—this is the traveler’s responsibility, and the cost varies depending on your starting point. Once you arrive, you’ll get a full day of exploring the water town’s traditional streets, waterways, and architecture. The town has a charming old-world feel, with well-preserved buildings and serene canals that look like they belong in a painting.
You’ll receive an admission ticket to Gubei Water Town, granting access to most areas. The town is popular for its picturesque scenery, especially during the early morning or sunset when the light makes everything glow warm. You might also stumble upon small shops selling local crafts or snacks, adding to the authentic vibe.
In the evening, you’ll be treated to dinner featuring fish, offering a taste of local cuisine. This meal is included in the package and is often appreciated for its freshness and simple, hearty flavors. Some travelers mention that the dinner can be a highlight, especially if you enjoy seafood.
Day 2: The Great Wall and Hot Springs
The day kicks off with a visit to the Simatai Great Wall, accessible via cableway—an efficient way to minimize the climb and maximize the views. The Great Wall here is reputed for its rugged beauty and relatively less crowded atmosphere, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The cable car ride adds a fun and scenic element, giving you sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and ancient stonework.
Following the Great Wall, you’ll have the chance to relax in hot springs, which have become a popular feature of the area. The hot springs are known for their soothing properties and provide a perfect way to unwind after exploring. The tour includes entrance to the hot springs, so you can enjoy a soak with minimal extra expense.
The day concludes with breakfast, which is included in your package, and an opportunity to reflect on the scenic views and cultural richness of the trip. Since the admission tickets for attractions are free, you have flexibility in how long you spend at each site.
The Authentic Charm of Gubei Water Town
What sets this tour apart is the focus on authenticity. Unlike mainstream tourist spots, Gubei Water Town maintains a traditional vibe, where most buildings and streets look like they’ve been untouched by modern development. Visitors often comment on the knowledgeable guides, who help bring the area’s history and stories alive.
One reviewer noted, “The guides were very friendly and knew the history well, making the experience much more meaningful.” This highlights the value of guided elements, especially if you’re interested in learning more about the cultural backstory rather than just sightseeing.
On top of that, the hot springs stand out as a relaxing highlight, especially after a day of walking the ancient walls and exploring the waterways. The included cableway at Simatai makes the visit accessible for a wider range of travelers, including those less inclined to strenuous hikes.
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Practical Tips
- Transportation to Gubei Water Town is not included, so plan your route in advance. Public transportation may be an option if you’re comfortable navigating local transit.
- Timing matters—try to arrive early or stay late to avoid peak crowds and enjoy quieter scenic views.
- Bring appropriate footwear—the town’s cobblestone streets and the Great Wall can be uneven.
- Currency and meals: While most meals are included, it’s worth carrying some extra cash for snacks or souvenirs.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This package is perfect for budget travelers who want a taste of historic China without shelling out hundreds of dollars. It’s also great for those who enjoy scenic views, cultural sites, and relaxing in hot springs.
Travelers who appreciate guided insights will find the tour informative, thanks to the knowledgeable guides that many reviews praise. It’s suitable for most people with moderate mobility and an interest in authentic Chinese scenery and cuisine.
However, if you prefer a fully organized experience where transportation and meals are all sorted, this might feel a little minimalist. Still, for the price, it delivers excellent value for a brief, well-rounded visit.
Final Thoughts

This Gubei Water Town 2 Days 1 Night Package offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and affordability. With inclusive entry to key sites like the Great Wall and hot springs, plus local meals that add to the experience, it’s a smart choice for travelers seeking a taste of old Beijing without overspending.
The main consideration is planning your transportation, but the upside is the flexibility to explore on your own terms once you’re there. The guided elements, especially around the Great Wall and town, lend extra depth to the visit, making it more than just a superficial sightseeing trip.
This tour provides a practical, authentic, and enjoyable way to experience the charms of Gubei Water Town—perfect for curious travelers eager for a scenic escape close to Beijing.
Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to Gubei Water Town?
Yes, transportation fees are not included, so you will need to organize your own way to reach the town, whether by public transit or private transport.
What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers 1 night’s accommodation, breakfast, dinner (fish), entrance to Gubei Water Town, Simatai Great Wall with cableway, and hot springs.
Can I visit the Great Wall without a guide?
The package includes the entrance fee and cableway; guides are available to help enhance your understanding, but self-exploration is also possible.
Are the attractions crowded?
The Simatai Great Wall is less touristy compared to other sections, providing a more relaxed experience. Visiting early or late helps avoid larger crowds.
Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved and the uneven terrain. The cableway at the Great Wall makes accessibility easier.
What if I want to cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly before confirming.
By combining scenic views, cultural authenticity, and budget-friendly pricing, this Gubei Water Town package truly offers a snapshot of traditional China with minimal fuss and maximum charm.
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