Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall Private Day Tour

Experience the Best of Beijing’s Hidden Gems: Gubei Water Town and Simatai Great Wall

If you’re looking for a way to escape the busy streets of Beijing and see some of China’s most remarkable scenery, this private tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and authentic local charm. For around $240 per person, you’ll enjoy a full day that takes you from the historic Simatai Great Wall—renowned for its well-preserved Ming Dynasty architecture—to the tranquil waters of Gubei Water Town, a scenic old town surrounded by mountains and water.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private guide and vehicle mean you can set your own pace, ask plenty of questions, and avoid the hassle of public transportation or large group tours. Second, all entrance fees and cable car rides are included, simplifying your day and ensuring you don’t get caught off guard by extra costs.

A possible consideration: this is a long day, with more than two hours of travel each way, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, active day and are comfortable with some walking and hiking. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely visit, you may want to plan for a slower pace or consider breaking up the day.

This tour is perfect for those who value expert guidance, scenic views, and a personalized experience. It’s ideal if you’re eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and want a chance to walk the well-preserved sections of the Great Wall while enjoying the serenity of a traditional water town.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience: Enjoy door-to-door service with an English-speaking guide.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees, cable car rides, and transport are covered.
• Authentic Scenic Beauty: See the untouched Simatai Great Wall and the charming Gubei Water Town.
• Flexible Scheduling: Pick-up times are adjustable and early start recommended to beat crowds.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private vehicle and round-trip transfers eliminate stress.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect over 8 hours of sightseeing, travel included.

Exploring the Tour: A Closer Look

Starting Off in Beijing

The adventure begins with hotel pickup, a great perk especially in a city as sprawling as Beijing. The tour provider recommends an early start—something we agree with—because beating the crowds really enhances the experience. Your private guide, who you’ll communicate with beforehand, will contact you for the exact pickup time, allowing flexibility for your schedule.

This initial transfer sets the tone for a worry-free day. No navigating confusing bus routes, no waiting in long lines. Just comfortable transportation and an engaging guide who’s ready to share insights about China’s iconic sights.

Reaching the Simatai Great Wall

Once you arrive at Simatai, you’ll hike a short 15-minute walk to reach the wall itself. This section of the Great Wall is famously well-preserved and less restored than others, giving it a more authentic, rugged feel. The guide will give you around two hours to explore at your own pace, which is a real plus. You get to choose how far you want to walk along the wall, taking in views that are genuinely jaw-dropping.

A highlight here is the cable car ride—included in your price—which makes it easier to get up the hill without tiring yourself out. The cable car also offers a chance to enjoy sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains.

The authenticity of this section is what impresses many travelers. As one reviewer put it, “The entire Wall is yours, and you can explore it by your own pace. It really is an architectural wonder.” Plus, Simatai’s designation as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site underlines its importance and preservation.

Exploring Gubei Water Town

After conquering the wall, your next stop is Gubei Water Town. This ancient town is unlike any typical tourist trap. Surrounded by mountains and water, it offers a peaceful, scenic stroll through old villages and water channels. The town’s setting along the Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir provides plenty of picture-perfect moments.

While the tour includes admission, you’ll want to budget for your own lunch—there are local restaurants in the town, as well as the option to dine outside the town if you prefer. The guide can recommend places based on your preferences, whether you’re after traditional Chinese dishes or something more modern.

What we love about Gubei Water Town is the blend of natural beauty with historical architecture. As one reviewer noted, “You will be surrounded by the beautiful Mandarin Duck Lake Reservoir. You surely will have a very unique experience in this rare natural old town with a combination of mountains, water, ancient villages and hilly-area quadrangle dwellings.”

Returning to Beijing

After enjoying Gubei Water Town, your private vehicle will take you back to your hotel, which takes about two hours. The tour offers the flexibility to drop you off at a downtown Beijing restaurant if you wish to extend your evening with dinner.

While the return trip is lengthy, it’s a comfortable ride in a private vehicle, and the whole day is designed to maximize sightseeing without the stress of navigating on your own.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of expert guide service, private transportation, and all-inclusive fees provides great value—particularly for travelers keen on avoiding logistical headaches and wanting a personalized experience. The guide’s knowledge enhances your understanding of the sites, while the flexibility allows you to linger or hurry as you please.

We especially appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of cable car rides, making the ascent easier and more enjoyable, and the authenticity of Simatai. Many travelers mention how untouched and well-preserved this stretch of the Great Wall feels, which is rare among the many sections open to travelers.

The major downside is the length of travel—more than four hours combined—so this tour suits those who don’t mind a full, active day. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend more time in a single place, you might consider splitting this into separate days or exploring other parts of the Great Wall.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, scenic lovers, and those seeking a personalized, hassle-free day outside downtown Beijing. It’s perfect if you’re eager to walk the more untouched parts of the Great Wall and enjoy a charming water town without the stress of planning every detail yourself. The guided format and included transportation make it especially appealing for travelers who want to focus on the sights and stories rather than logistics.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded day of exploration that balances spectacular views, cultural authenticity, and comfort. It’s suited for those who want a meaningful experience without the complications of independent travel. The knowledgeable guide, combined with the scenic beauty of Simatai and Gubei Water Town, makes for a memorable day out that truly showcases some of China’s most impressive sights.

If you’re after a guided, all-inclusive look at the Great Wall’s most authentic section, combined with a peaceful water town with local charm, this tour is hard to beat. Just come prepared for a full day of walking and sightseeing, and you’ll leave with plenty of photos and stories to share.

FAQ

How early should I start the tour?
It’s recommended to start early to avoid crowds and make the most of the cooler morning hours. The tour provider suggests an early pickup, and they will contact you with the specific time.

Is the cable car ride included?
Yes, the round-trip cable car fare is included in the price, making it easier to reach the top of Simatai Great Wall without tiring yourself out.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for hiking and walking. Since the terrain can be uneven on the Great Wall, sturdy shoes are advised.

Can I choose where to be dropped off after the tour?
Yes, if you want to have dinner in downtown Beijing, you can be dropped off at a restaurant instead of your hotel, depending on your preference.

How long is the total travel time?
The round-trip transfer takes about two hours each way, so prepare for a long but comfortable journey.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for the Water Town and Great Wall are covered, including the cable car.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the physical activity involved. The tour can be adjusted based on your group’s needs, and baby seats are available if requested in advance.

In the end, this private tour offers a fantastic way to experience China’s ancient marvels comfortably and intimately. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking stunning views, it’s designed to give you a memorable, well-organized day out.