Jinshanling Private Tour with Night View of Simatai and Gubei Water Town from Beijing

Exploring the Great Wall Beyond the Crowds: Jinshanling, Gubei Water Town, and Simatai Night View Tour

If you’re craving a more intimate experience of the Great Wall of China, this private tour offers a fantastic way to see some of its most captivating sections outside the usual tourist spots. For $278 per person, you get a full day of exploring Jinshanling’s rugged beauty, strolling through the charming Gubei Water Town, and witnessing the stunning night illumination of Simatai. The tour lasts about 8 to 10 hours, making it a full but rewarding day. Your guide takes care of all the logistics—private air-conditioned transport, entrance fees, and even a delicious Chinese meal—so you can focus on soaking in the sights.

What we love about this experience? First, the less crowded sections of the Wall mean fewer travelers and more space for photographs and quiet reflection. Second, the personalized attention from your guide ensures a smoother, more informative visit, with plenty of stories and historical insights. The inclusion of a cable car ride at Simatai adds a fun, effortless way to enjoy the panoramic views and the mesmerizing night scene.

A potential consideration? The long drive from Beijing—around two hours to Jinshanling, plus additional travel between sites—may be tiring for some. Also, the tour involves a fair amount of walking over uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. Still, if you’re eager to escape the crowds and see a more authentic side of the Great Wall, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a memorable, less touristy adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic and less crowded sections of the Great Wall provide a quieter, more personal experience
• Inclusion of Gubei Water Town offers a picturesque glimpse into traditional Chinese village life
• Flexible start times allow better planning for your Beijing itinerary
• Cable car ride at Simatai makes the ascent effortless and enhances the night view experience
• Excellent guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attention to detail
• Delicious Chinese meals are included, with vegetarian options available

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This tour is designed for travelers who want a full-day, immersive look at some of China’s most stunning sights outside of Beijing’s crowded tourist areas. Starting from your hotel, your guide greets you warmly and whisks you away in a private, air-conditioned vehicle—no fuss, no waiting, just comfort and anticipation. The roughly two-hour drive to Jinshanling offers a chance to get a primer on the Wall’s history from your guide, who is often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

Jinshanling Great Wall: Rugged Beauty and Solitude

Your first stop, Jinshanling, is a favorite for those seeking a more authentic and less commercialized Wall experience. Unlike Badaling, where crowds can make even the most patient visitor feel overwhelmed, Jinshanling feels like you’ve wandered into a secret corner of history. The terrain here is rugged, with steep steps and uneven surfaces, but that’s part of the charm—plus, it means fewer travelers. As several reviews highlight, “we were the only people besides our guide” on this section, giving you ample space for photos and quiet moments.

The admission is included, and you’ll have about two hours to explore. Many visitors mention how striking the views are here, especially with the natural surroundings of mountains and lush landscapes framing the Wall. The guide will share stories about the Wall’s construction and significance, making the experience rich and informative.

Gubei Water Town: Charm and Cultural Insight

After a satisfying lunch, your journey continues to Gubei Water Town, just a short 30-minute drive away. This spot is a delightful contrast to the ruggedness of Jinshanling—a picturesque, water- and canal-filled town that looks like a scene straight out of a Chinese painting. You’ll take a leisurely walk through its narrow lanes, discovering traditional architecture, quaint shops, and the peaceful ambiance that makes Gubei Water Town a favorite among photographers and culture lovers alike.

The reviews praise the town for its “delightful experience” and “beautiful insight into the ancient village style.” It’s a great place to stretch your legs, snap photos, and enjoy some local snacks or tea before heading to your final destination.

Simatai Great Wall: Night Views and a Cable Car Ride

The highlight for many is the visit to Simatai—especially at night. The cable car ride up is effortless and offers stunning vistas. Once atop, you’ll witness the Wall illuminated and lit up with lanterns, creating an almost fairy-tale scene. The extensive reviews describe it as “absolutely beautiful” and “spectacular,” with the night view adding a magical touch that’s tough to match during daytime visits.

Your guide might even arrange for you to catch the sunset if timing allows, providing a different perspective of the Wall in soft evening light. The 1-hour stop at Simatai includes the cable car round-trip and ample opportunity to soak in the illuminated scenery and take memorable photos.

Practical Details: What Travelers Should Know

This tour is designed for those comfortable with walking and uneven surfaces, as the Wall and town involve some physical activity. Comfortable shoes are essential, and bringing a hat, water, and sunscreen is advisable, especially if visiting in summer. The private vehicle ensures a smooth ride, and the flexible start time means you can choose what best fits your schedule.

The included meal is a Chinese lunch or dinner, with vegetarian options upon request—crucial for those with dietary restrictions. The tour’s price reflects a high value, considering the private transport, guide, admission fees, meals, and unique access to less-crowded sections.

One notable point from reviews is the absence of a cable car fee at Jinshanling, which isn’t included in the price. If you want to take the cable car at Jinshanling, you’ll need to pay separately, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a more authentic, less touristy experience of the Great Wall, combined with cultural highlights like Gubei Water Town. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stunning landscapes, enjoy guided storytelling, and are comfortable with some walking. It also suits those who want to avoid the crowds and are excited by scenic night views.

Given the positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, this tour is especially suitable for history buffs, photographers, and anyone eager to see the Wall from a different perspective—away from the rush of popular sites.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a thoughtfully curated day outside Beijing, where you’ll visit three different areas—each with its own character. Jinshanling delivers rugged authenticity, Gubei Water Town provides cultural charm, and Simatai’s night view creates a memory that will stick with you. The inclusion of a private guide, meals, and transportation means you can relax and focus on the experience itself, rather than logistics.

For anyone seeking a more personal and less crowded way to see the Great Wall, this tour strikes a fine balance between comfort, authenticity, and value. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want to go beyond the typical crowded sections and truly connect with China’s iconic monument.

FAQs

What time does the tour start? You can choose the start time that suits your schedule when booking, giving you flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult due to some walking involved.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for uneven surfaces on the Wall. Dressing in layers and bringing sun protection is recommended.

Are dietary requirements accommodated? Yes, vegetarian options are available; just advise at the time of booking.

Does the tour include a cable car at Jinshanling? No, the cable car at Jinshanling is not included in the price. It can be purchased separately if desired.

What about the weather? The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour combines history, scenery, and authentic local charm, making it a memorable way to experience the Great Wall without the crowds. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply seeking a quieter side of China’s most famous landmark, it’s well worth considering.