Beijing: Getaway to Simatai Great Wall & Gubei Water Town

If you’re craving a mix of history, scenic beauty, and authentic local life during your Beijing trip, this tour offers a compelling blend. For just $36, you get to explore the less crowded, more authentic section of the Great Wall at Simatai, combined with a visit to the charming Gubei Water Town. The tour lasts about 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip from Beijing’s hustle.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to walk along a more original and peaceful stretch of the Great Wall—away from the crowds of Badaling or Mutianyu. Second, the visit to Gubei Water Town, with its lantern-lit canals, traditional teahouses, and street performances, feels like stepping into a historical painting.

A potential consideration is the early start, with hotel pickups generally between 6:00 and 6:30 am, which might be a challenge after a late night or if you’re not an early riser. Also, while the tour is quite affordable, it’s a group experience, which some travelers find less intimate than private tours.

This tour suits travelers who love authentic scenery, culture, and historical sights without breaking the bank. If you’re interested in a less touristy part of the Great Wall and enjoy strolling through picturesque townscapes, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit one of the most genuine and less crowded sections of the Great Wall at Simatai.
• Cultural Charm: Explore Gubei Water Town with its canals, teahouses, and traditional street performances.
• Flexible Options: Upgrade to an illuminating night tour for a magical view of the Wall under lights.
• Value for Money: At only $36, the tour offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing with knowledgeable guides.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pick-up is available, with shared transportation making it easy to relax between sites.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Perfect if you want to see iconic sights while avoiding overly commercialized tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pick-up from your Beijing hotel—most likely around 6:00 to 6:30 am. Depending on your hotel location, you might need to pay a small extra fee if you’re outside the 4th ring road. The early start ensures you beat some of the crowds and maximize your day.

The first stop is Gubei Water Town, a riverside village at the foot of the Simatai Great Wall. We loved the way the town feels like a living museum—cobbled streets, stone bridges, and lantern-lit canals create a quintessential Chinese scene. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to wander through, sample local snacks, and soak in its tranquil beauty. Several reviews mention the charming atmosphere and the chance to see traditional crafts and street performances, making it more than just a photo stop.

Next, the guided tour of Simatai Great Wall lasts about an hour. Here, you’ll get a detailed narrative from your guide about the history and architecture of this original section of the Wall. Unlike the heavily touristed Badaling, Simatai offers a more peaceful, rugged experience, with stunning vistas and a sense of walking through history. Some reviews note that the views are breathtaking, with the rugged terrain providing excellent photo opportunities.

For those opting for the night tour upgrade, you’ll be amazed by the wall lit up under the dark sky. The illuminated battlements create a fairy-tale scene that’s perfect for photos and offers a different perspective on this iconic structure. This option is less common, making it a special highlight for those seeking a more magical experience.

Finally, the group returns to Beijing, with drop-offs at Jianguomen and possibly other locations. The entire day is about 10 hours, balancing travel, sightseeing, and some leisure time.

What We Loved

We appreciated the knowledgeable guides, who shared insights into both the Wall’s construction and the surrounding history, making the experience more meaningful. The stunning views from the Wall’s rugged sections are unforgettable, providing ample opportunities for memorable photos.

The authentic feel of Gubei Water Town was another favorite—less commercialized than some other water towns, it felt real and alive, with local residents and traditional performances adding to the charm. For many travelers, this combination of scenic beauty and cultural depth made the day truly memorable.

The Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early start—if you’re not an early riser, it might be a challenge to get up for the pickup. Also, since it’s a shared group tour, the experience might lack intimacy for those seeking a private, tailored visit. Some travelers also noted that the tour’s duration is quite full, leaving little free time for spontaneous exploration or resting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour

This trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a balanced mix of heritage, scenery, and local culture. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in less touristy parts of the Great Wall and enjoy picturesque townscapes. However, if you prefer a private experience, or want a relaxed pace with plenty of downtime, you might consider alternative options.

The Experience Provider and Similar Tours

Operated by CHINA Vistas, this tour has a 4.1-star rating based on traveler reviews, indicating generally positive feedback but room for improvement. If you’d like to compare, other options include tours to Mutianyu, Jinshanling, or even private visits to the Forbidden City or Summer Palace, often with more flexibility but at a higher price.

Final Thoughts

This tour combines an authentic section of the Great Wall with the quaint charm of Gubei Water Town, delivered at an unbeatable price. It’s well-suited for travelers who value culture and scenic beauty without the crowds or high costs. Whether you choose the daytime exploration or add the illuminated night experience, you’ll come away with wonderful memories and plenty of stunning photos.

For those eager to experience Chinas’ iconic heritage in a place that feels genuine and less commercialized, this tour offers a satisfying and affordable route to do just that.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from most downtown Beijing hotels, generally between 6:00 and 6:30 am. If you’re outside the 4th ring road, an extra charge may apply.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and transfer back to Beijing.

Can I upgrade to a night tour?
Yes, there is an optional upgrade to a night tour, where the Great Wall is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and sunglasses. It’s also wise to carry some snacks or water for the trip.

Is this a group tour?
Yes, it’s a shared experience with other travelers, although private group options are available.

Is it suitable for children or people with health issues?
It’s best for travelers in good health, as walking on the rugged sections of the Wall can be physically demanding. It’s not recommended for those with altitude sickness or over 95 years old.

Experience the beauty of the Great Wall in its most authentic form and enjoy the serenity of Gubei Water Town—all in a full day’s adventure that combines history, scenery, and local culture for a very reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: