Private Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town Night Tour from Beijing

A visit to Beijing isn’t complete without seeing the Great Wall of China, but most travelers stick to daytime visits. This private night tour changes that, offering a different perspective on one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. For around $234 per person, you get a 5 to 6-hour journey that takes you through the beautiful Gubei Water Town and up to the illuminated Simatai Great Wall after sunset. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll enjoy the quiet serenity of the water town, then marvel at the glimmering lights on the ancient battlements.

Two standout features of this tour are the private transfers—which mean no waiting on other travelers—and the option to include a cable car ride and dinner, making the experience more comfortable and memorable. We appreciate how the small group setting enhances the personal touch, especially when navigating the winding streets and narrow paths of the historic water town.

One thing to consider is that this tour operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared for anything from clear skies to drizzly evenings. Also, if you’re not keen on walking or hiking, some parts, like the Great Wall, involve a bit of stone-path hiking, which may be less accessible for those with mobility issues.

This experience suits travelers who love authentic moments, stunning views, and a touch of magic after dark. It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate, less crowded view of the Great Wall, and for anyone eager to see both history and scenic beauty under night lights.

Key Points

• Unique Night Perspective: Seeing the Great Wall illuminated at night offers a completely different, almost mystical experience.
• Private Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, with no group sharing your journey, enhances comfort and flexibility.
• Flexible Options: The upgrade includes a cable car ride for easier access and a dinner to fill your belly after exploring.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Gubei Water Town’s waterways, traditional architecture, and lively shops create a charming backdrop that’s less touristy at night.
• Authentic Experience: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the trip feel personalized.
• Good Value: The inclusion of transport, entry fees, and optional upgrades makes this tour a practical way to experience a night at the Great Wall.

Setting the Scene: What’s Included?

This tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines cultural charm with breathtaking views, all wrapped into a manageable five to six hours. Price-wise, at $234 per person, it provides good value considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private guiding, entry fees, and optional upgrades like cable car rides and dinner.

The fact that most travelers book this 41 days in advance suggests it’s popular and well-organized—good indicators of a smooth experience. It operates in all weather conditions, so you can plan with flexibility, but dressing appropriately for cooler evenings and possibly slippery paths is wise.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

First Stop: Gubei Water Town

Your guide will pick you up from your Beijing hotel, whisking you off to this picturesque water town. Think of it as a miniature Venice—without the crowds—where winding streets follow the course of a flowing lake. You’ll see boats gently gliding through the water, creating a serene, almost cinematic scene.

Walking along the riverside, you’ll admire ancient buildings and quaint shops, perfect for photos or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The water town’s charm is amplified at night when the lights reflect off the water, creating a magical, fairy-tale feel. One reviewer noted, “The water town was cool,” and appreciated simply strolling through the illuminated streets.

Second Stop: Simatai Great Wall

As dusk falls, you’ll ascend via optional cable car—which many travelers say makes the experience easier and more enjoyable—up to the top of the Simatai Great Wall. The views from here are stunning: the lighted water town below, the darkening sky, and the ancient stones bathed in soft light.

Walking along the battlements at night, you’ll appreciate the wild, preserved character of this section. The stone paths and surrounding bushes make the scenery especially atmospheric. One traveler shared, “Seeing the Great Wall with lights has an entirely more magical feeling,” which captures the magic of experiencing this UNESCO World Heritage site after hours.

Additional Options: Cable Car and Dinner

While the basic package includes entry fees, many opt to upgrade for a cable car ride—a real boon if you want to avoid the steep climb or just want a bird’s-eye view of the illuminated town. The dinner option adds a relaxing end to your evening, though the reviews don’t specify the cuisine, implying it’s an optional extra rather than an essential part of the experience.

The Experience: What to Expect

From the moment you’re picked up, the professionalism of your guide and driver becomes evident. Guests praise guides like Linda for their friendly attitude and good English, making navigation and explanation much easier. This personalized approach is a key reason why many say they “really recommend this tour.”

During the walk on the Great Wall, you’ll see stunning views and enjoy the quiet atmosphere—a stark contrast to the busy, crowded daytime visits. The lighting transforms the battlements into a scene out of a film, perfect for photography if you’re into capturing atmospheric moments.

The town, at night, takes on a peaceful charm, with illuminated waterways and traditional architecture providing excellent photo opportunities. The boat ride, as suggested by a reviewer, adds a relaxing element to the trip, ideal for unwinding after your explorations.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a deeply authentic experience—small group size, private transport, and a local guide means you get to learn and experience without the distraction of large tour buses. For many, the highlight is seeing the wall lit up, which is quite different from the usual daytime visits. One reviewer called it “an entirely more magical feeling,” and many agree that the night view is more atmospheric and less crowded.

The value lies in the convenience (private hotel transfers, entry fees included) and the flexibility of options like cable cars and dinner. For around $234, you’re paying for a well-rounded, personalized trip that balances scenic beauty, comfort, and culture.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes—the paths can be uneven and potentially slippery.
• Consider adding the cable car if you’re less inclined to hike or want a panoramic view without the climb.
• The dinner is optional but can be a good way to relax after the tour.
• Book in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during peak season.
• Keep in mind this tour involves some walking and stepping on stone paths, so it may not suit everyone with mobility challenges.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the Great Wall in a less crowded, atmospheric setting. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic, tranquil environments and have a curiosity about how China looks at night. It suits those who appreciate authentic local atmospheres, as the water town and preserved Great Wall sections provide a sense of history and tradition.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the illuminated views and reflections at night create excellent photo opportunities. Also, if you prefer a private, personalized experience over large groups, this tour’s private nature will appeal.

This tour might be less suitable if you prefer a rigid, structured schedule or if you’re uncomfortable with walking on uneven paths. It’s also not designed as a quick sightseeing blitz—it’s about savoring a more tranquil, scenic side of Beijing’s treasures.

This private night tour to the Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town combines scenic beauty, cultural charm, and convenience into a memorable evening. It offers something different from the usual daytime visits—an opportunity to see the Great Wall in a softer, more atmospheric light and enjoy the peaceful waterways of Gubei Water Town. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals and with flexible upgrade options, it provides both comfort and authentic charm.

While it requires some walking and the weather can influence your experience, the overall value and uniqueness make it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a more intimate, scenic, and atmospheric view of Beijing’s famous landmarks. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography lover, or simply looking for a special way to end your day, this tour offers a balanced blend of beauty, history, and good company.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes private hotel pickup and drop-off in Beijing, making your day easier and more relaxed.

Can I add a cable car ride?
Yes, the upgrade option allows you to include a cable car ride up to the Great Wall, which many find worthwhile for the views and convenience.

Is dinner included?
Dinner is an optional upgrade. If you choose all-inclusive, it will be included; otherwise, you can enjoy the scenic views and explore the town before heading back.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially in the evening, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven stone paths.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience runs about 5 to 6 hours, covering transport, sightseeing, and optional activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult, but remember that some walking and hiking are involved.

This tour offers a thoughtfully crafted way to see a different side of the Great Wall, making it a fine choice for those craving a more intimate, scenic, and atmospheric experience in Beijing.