Beijing: Jinshanling, Simatai Wall and Gubei Water Town Tour

When you think of Beijing, images of bustling streets and historic sites like the Forbidden City often come to mind. But just outside the city, you’ll find some of China’s most captivating sights — quieter, less crowded, and packed with authentic charm. For a full day of adventure, this Jinshanling, Simatai Wall, and Gubei Water Town Tour offers a fantastic way to experience three very different facets of northern China’s heritage. Priced at $196 per person, and lasting around 9 hours, this tour combines hiking, sightseeing, and cultural exploration with the comfort of a private vehicle and knowledgeable guides.

Two features that really stand out are the untouched Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, perfect for photographers and hikers craving less touristy paths, and the spectacular night view of Simatai lit up, which creates a magical atmosphere. The tour also offers a taste of local life at Gubei Water Town, with its charming canals and traditional architecture.

One thing to consider: the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some elevation changes, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, if you’re short on time, this might be a long day, but the variety and depth of experience make it well worth the effort.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, history, and authentic scenery. If you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply looking to see some of China’s lesser-known but stunning sights, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

Key Points

• Undiscovered Great Wall sections: Jinshanling is less crowded and ideal for photography and hiking.
• Stunning night views: Simatai is beautifully lit at night, offering a unique perspective.
• Cultural charm: Gubei Water Town gives an authentic glimpse of traditional water town life.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of each site’s history.
• Flexible hiking options: Routes are suggested based on your comfort level.
• Value-packed experience: Includes transportation, local lunch, and cable car rides (if booked as part of the package).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Jinshanling: A Hiker’s Dream and Photographer’s Paradise

The day begins with a pickup in downtown Beijing, making it easy to start without the hassle of navigating public transport. Within about two hours, you’ll arrive at the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, renowned for its well-preserved structure and fewer crowds. Unlike the more touristy Badaling route, Jinshanling offers an authentic experience, with over 100 enemy towers dotting the landscape.

Here, your guide will tailor the walk based on your hiking ability, ensuring you get the best experience without overexertion. We loved the way guides like Jessica and Anson made the history come alive, sharing stories that added depth to the incredible views. Expect to spend around two hours exploring, taking plenty of photos of the rugged wall snaking over hills, and learning about its strategic importance in ancient China.

Simatai: The Nighttime Spectacle

After Jinshanling, you’ll ascend via cable car to the Simatai section, which is famous for its steep, dramatic terrain and unique architectural features. The highlight here is the nighttime visit, when lanterns illuminate the ancient stones and watch towers, creating a truly enchanting scene. The cable car ride offers sweeping vistas, giving you a sense of the wall’s impressive length and rugged beauty.

Your guide will lead you through the lit-up section, where you can walk among 10 open towers, soaking in the atmosphere and panoramic views of Gubei Water Town below. Many visitors mention how special it is to see the wall at sunset and night, contrasting the ancient stones against the shimmering lights of the water town. The experience is both scenic and educational, with guides sharing insights into the wall’s construction and historical significance.

Gubei Water Town: A Live Cultural Canvas

After a delicious Chinese lunch at a local village restaurant, you’ll stroll through Gubei Water Town, a replica of Wuzhen Water Town. Here, traditional architecture, canals, and shops recreate an old Jiangnan water town vibe. The town is especially photogenic at night, with lanterns casting a warm glow over the narrow streets and water.

The walk around the town offers a taste of local life and traditional Chinese culture, and it’s a peaceful contrast to the ruggedness of the Great Wall. You can explore shops, enjoy some local snacks, or simply soak in the lovely atmosphere before heading back.

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Practical Details & Tips

The transportation involved is a private, air-conditioned vehicle that ensures comfort and efficiency, avoiding the crowds and delays of public transit. The entire day is paced to balance active exploration with relaxed sightseeing, with plenty of time built into the schedule for photos and questions.

Included in the package are entrance fees, cable car rides, and a local Chinese lunch, making it a good value for the price. If you opt for the basic tour without extras, you might want to budget separately for the cable car and meals.

Given reviews, guides like Jessica and Andy are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach. Many travelers remark on how their guides’ vivid storytelling and enthusiasm make the experience both educational and lively.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a great fit if you want more than just a quick glance at the Great Wall. It suits those who appreciate a combination of hiking, culture, and stunning vistas. It’s especially ideal for photographers or history enthusiasts who value a less touristy experience and enjoy learning from passionate guides. Travelers who don’t mind a long day of exploration will appreciate the variety this trip offers.

If your main goal is to just tick off the wall without much walking, you might find some sections more demanding. But overall, it’s well-suited for active travelers who want real, memorable moments outside the city.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a nicely balanced, immersive experience outside Beijing, combining untouched sections of the Great Wall, a spectacular night view, and a stroll through a charming water town. The expert guides, along with the comfortable transportation, ensure that you’re both informed and well cared for. It’s a wonderful way to see diverse highlights in one day, especially if you’re interested in hiking, photography, and authentic cultural encounters.

For those looking for a value-rich, authentic experience with a manageable schedule, this trip hits all the right notes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure and cultural insight, away from the crowds but close to Beijing’s heart.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 9 hours, starting from your hotel pickup in the morning and ending back in the evening.

What’s included in the price?
The package typically covers private transportation, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, entrance fees, a Chinese lunch, and round-trip cable car rides at Simatai (if you choose the package).

Can I hike the Jinshanling Great Wall?
Yes. The guide will suggest routes based on your hiking level, allowing you to enjoy the wall’s rugged beauty at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind there is some walking and uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and you should assess your comfort with walking or standing for extended periods.

What makes this tour different from other Great Wall trips?
It combines less crowded, well-preserved sections with a unique night view of Simatai and a visit to a traditional water town, offering a more diverse experience than standard day trips.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

This tour makes for a memorable, enriching day outside Beijing, blending history, scenery, and local culture into one seamless adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: